Crock-Pot Huli Huli Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply combine the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it work its magic.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair with rice, noodles, or vegetables for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly Flavors: The harmonious blend of sweet and savory notes appeals to both kids and adults.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers store well, making it ideal for planning ahead.

Ingredients

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

Directions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well combined.
2. Arrange Chicken in Slow Cooker: Place boneless, skinless chicken thighs at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
3. Add Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
5. Thicken Sauce: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Whisk this into the sauce in the slow cooker.
6. Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the slow cooker, either whole or shredded, and stir to coat with the thickened sauce. Let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
• Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes.
• Cooking Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.

Variations

• Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or pork tenderloin for a different take.
• Spice Level: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to introduce some heat.
• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate bell peppers, onions, or pineapple chunks into the slow cooker for added texture and flavor.
• Grilling Option: For a traditional touch, grill the chicken after marinating to achieve a smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

What does "Huli Huli" mean?

"Huli" means "turn" in Hawaiian, referring to the traditional method of grilling and turning the chicken.

Can I use fresh pineapple juice?

Yes, fresh pineapple juice can enhance the flavor, but canned unsweetened pineapple juice works well too.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before slow cooking?

Searing adds depth of flavor but is optional for this recipe.

Can I cook this on high to reduce cooking time?

Yes, cook on high for 3-4 hours instead of low for 6-7 hours.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Use a cornstarch slurry as directed to thicken the sauce to your liking.

What sides pair well with Huli Huli Chicken?

Steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad complement this dish nicely.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken overnight for enhanced flavor, then cook as directed.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Using chicken thighs helps retain moisture; avoid overcooking to keep the meat tender.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Ensure all ingredients, especially soy sauce, are gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased quantity without overcrowding.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Huli Huli Chicken brings the vibrant flavors of Hawaii to your kitchen with minimal effort. Its sweet and savory profile, coupled with tender, juicy chicken, makes it a delightful dish for any occasion. Whether you're serving family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

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Crock-Pot Huli Huli Chicken

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Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of Huli Huli Chicken with this easy Crock-Pot recipe. This Hawaiian-inspired dish features tender, slow-cooked chicken infused with a delicious pineapple-soy glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this slow cooker Huli Huli Chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, or vegetables.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) / 3-4 hours (high)
• Total Time: Up to 7 hours
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Dinner, Slow Cooker
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Hawaiian
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Pineapple juice
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Ketchup
• Fresh ginger, grated
• Garlic, minced
• Cornstarch
• Water
• Optional garnishes: Green onions, sesame seeds

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Instructions

• Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
• Add to Slow Cooker: Place chicken thighs in a 6-quart Crock-Pot and pour the sauce over them.
• Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
• Thicken the Sauce: Remove the chicken. Mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the sauce in the slow cooker.
• Combine & Serve: Return the chicken (whole or shredded) to the slow cooker. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens. Serve over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds.

Notes

• Add bell peppers, onions, or pineapple chunks for extra flavor.
• For an authentic touch, grill the chicken after marinating.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.