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Dump-and-Go Sweet Hawaiian Chicken - Easy, Bright, and Family-Friendly

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, see notes)
  • 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks in juice, undrained
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped (optional)
  • 1 small onion, sliced (optional)
  • Cooked rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for serving
  • Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the sauce: In a bowl or measuring cup, whisk together pineapple (with its juice), ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, and vinegar. Add garlic and ginger. Stir until smooth.
  2. Layer the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or 9x13-inch baking dish. If using veggies, scatter bell pepper and onion around the chicken.
  3. Dump and go: Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken. No need to stir.
  4. Cook it: Slow cooker: Cook on Low for 4–5 hours or High for 2–3 hours, until chicken is tender and easily shreds.
  5. Instant Pot: Pressure cook on High for 8 minutes (thighs) or 10 minutes (breasts), then natural release for 5 minutes and quick release the rest.
  6. Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Thicken (optional): Remove chicken to a plate. Stir cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Add to the hot sauce and simmer (in a saucepan or sauté function) for 2–3 minutes until glossy and slightly thickened.
  8. Finish: Shred or slice the chicken and return it to the sauce. Taste and adjust with a splash more soy for salt or a dash of vinegar for brightness.
  9. Serve: Spoon over rice or noodles. Top with green onions and sesame seeds if you like.