Crockpot Huli Huli Chicken

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There’s something special about slow-cooked meals that let you go about your day while a delicious dinner simmers away. This slow cooker Huli Huli chicken is a fantastic dish that delivers a tropical twist with minimal effort. The combination of juicy chicken, a sweet and tangy sauce, and rich flavors makes this a family favorite. Inspired by Hawaiian flavors, Huli Huli chicken traditionally gets its name from being turned or “huli-ed” over a grill. This version lets the crockpot do the work, ensuring tender, flavorful chicken that pairs well with rice, veggies, or even as a sandwich filling.

The sauce brings together pineapple juice, garlic, ginger, and a touch of ketchup for that classic balance of savory, sweet, and tangy. Cooking low and slow allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a juicy, fork-tender chicken dish. Whether you enjoy it shredded over rice or as whole pieces, this meal is sure to impress. The best part? It requires little prep and uses simple pantry staples, making it perfect for busy days when you want something homemade and satisfying.

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

  • 4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1 cup unsweetened pineapple juice
  • 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger root
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1/3 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Instructions:

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, ginger, and garlic until well combined.
  2. Place the chicken into the crockpot and pour the sauce mixture evenly over the top.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 5 to 7 hours, allowing the flavors to fully develop and the chicken to become tender.
  4. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and set aside.
  5. Whisk cornstarch into the sauce remaining in the crockpot to help thicken it.
  6. You can serve the chicken whole with the thickened sauce or shred it and mix it back into the sauce for a juicy, flavorful dish.
  7. Serve over rice, in sandwiches, or alongside grilled vegetables.

Nutritional & Dietary Information:

This dish is a protein-packed meal with a good balance of sweet and savory flavors. It provides lean protein from the chicken while the pineapple juice and brown sugar add natural sweetness. The soy sauce contributes a salty depth, so those watching sodium intake may want to use a reduced-sodium option. This dish is naturally dairy-free and can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

Sharing and Commenting is Caring:

Tried this slow cooker Huli Huli chicken? Let us know how you liked it! Share your twists, serving ideas, or modifications in the comments. If you loved it, spread the joy by sharing this recipe with friends and family. Cooking is always better when enjoyed together—let’s make mealtime special!