Name: Crockpot Huli Huli Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485492H18M20S
Total time: 3 h 10 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 3-4 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks; 1 cup pineapple juice; 1/3 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp ketchup; 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar; 1/2 tsp ground ginger or 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening); 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening); Optional garnish: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, pineapple chunks

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Using a crockpot makes this classic Hawaiian chicken incredibly easy and hands-off, perfect for busy days. The slow cooking infuses the chicken with rich flavors, making it juicy and tender while the sauce thickens into a delicious glaze. It’s great served over rice or alongside grilled veggies.

Ingredients

3-4 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
1 cup pineapple juice
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1/2 tsp ground ginger or 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
Optional garnish: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, pineapple chunks

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare Sauce:
In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ketchup, vinegar, ginger, and pepper.
Add Chicken and Sauce to Crockpot:
Place chicken pieces in the crockpot.
Pour sauce over the chicken, coating evenly.
Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender and cooked through.
Optional Thickening:
Remove chicken and cover to keep warm.
Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry.
Stir slurry into crockpot sauce and cook on high for 15 minutes until thickened.
Serve:
Pour thickened sauce over chicken.
Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and pineapple chunks if desired.
Serve over steamed rice or with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 3-7 hours (depending on crockpot setting)
Total time: 3-7 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
Grilled Finish: After slow cooking, brush chicken with sauce and grill for a few minutes to char.
Vegetables: Add bell peppers or pineapple chunks to the crockpot.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Skinless Chicken: Use boneless, skinless thighs for a leaner option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce separately for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts?

Yes, but adjust cooking time to avoid drying out.

How do I get crispy skin?

Finish chicken under the broiler or on a hot grill after slow cooking.

Can I make the sauce ahead?

Yes, prepare sauce in advance for convenience.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s mildly sweet and savory.

Can I omit the cornstarch?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild; add heat if desired.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Use fresh chicken for best results.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, use the slow cooker or pressure cooker setting with adjusted times.

What sides pair well?

Rice, steamed vegetables, or Hawaiian rolls.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep in airtight containers refrigerated promptly.

Conclusion

Crockpot Huli Huli Chicken is a deliciously easy way to enjoy sweet, tangy Hawaiian flavors with minimal effort. Tender chicken bathed in a luscious pineapple-soy glaze makes this dish a perfect weeknight meal or party favorite.