If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal that will transport your taste buds to the tropics, look no further than this Slow Cooker Polynesian Chicken. This dish is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender chunks of chicken, juicy pineapple, and colorful bell peppers. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests. Plus, with minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it!
Top Reasons to Make Slow Cooker Polynesian Chicken
- Effortless Cooking: Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of pineapple, ginger, and garlic creates a sweet and savory sauce that’s irresistible.
- Healthy Ingredients: This recipe uses lean chicken breast and wholesome vegetables, making it a nutritious choice.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, quinoa, or even in lettuce wraps for a fresh twist.
Ingredient Breakdown
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless and skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 2-inch cubes for even cooking.
- 1 red bell pepper: Cored, seeded, and sliced into 1-inch strips for vibrant color and crunch.
- 20 ounces pineapple chunks: Canned in natural juice, adding sweetness and moisture to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons tamari or Bragg Liquid Aminos: A gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, providing umami flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves: Minced for aromatic depth.
- 2 teaspoons ginger: Grated for a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
- 1/3 cup honey: Sweetens the sauce naturally and balances the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot: Used to thicken the sauce, giving it a glossy finish.
Setup & Equipment
- Slow Cooker: The star of the show, allowing for hands-off cooking.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping the vegetables and chicken.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient proportions.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the sauce ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker.
Step-by-Step: Slow Cooker Polynesian Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into 2-inch cubes. Core and seed the red bell pepper, then slice it into 1-inch strips. Drain the pineapple chunks, reserving the juice for later.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the reserved pineapple juice, tamari or Bragg Liquid Aminos, minced garlic, grated ginger, and honey. Stir until well combined. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch or arrowroot with a little water to create a slurry before adding it to the sauce mixture.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Place the chicken cubes at the bottom of the slow cooker. Layer the red bell pepper over the chicken, followed by the pineapple chunks.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.
Step 5: Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours, depending on your schedule. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked when done.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce (if desired)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the sauce to reduce. Alternatively, you can mix in the cornstarch or arrowroot slurry at this stage.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, give everything a gentle stir to combine. Serve the Slow Cooker Polynesian Chicken over steamed rice or quinoa, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Substitutions by Diet
- Paleo: Substitute honey with maple syrup and use fresh pineapple instead of canned.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option.
- Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure that your tamari or Bragg Liquid Aminos is gluten-free, as most are.
Insider Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like snap peas or carrots for added nutrition.
- Serve leftovers in wraps for a quick lunch the next day!
Make-Ahead & Storage
This Slow Cooker Polynesian Chicken can be made a day in advance. Simply prepare everything and store it in the refrigerator, then cook it the next day. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Quick Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but the cooking time will be longer. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Polynesian Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a fresh and crunchy alternative.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or sriracha if you prefer a kick!
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just be mindful of your slow cooker’s capacity. If it’s too full, it may not cook evenly. You can always cook in batches.
Let’s Eat
Indulging in this Slow Cooker Polynesian Chicken is not just about the food; it’s about bringing joy to the table and sharing delicious moments with family and friends. The combination of flavors and the simplicity of preparation make this dish a staple in any home. So gather your ingredients, fire up that slow cooker, and prepare for a meal that will whisk you away to an island paradise!
Slow Cooker Polynesian Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cutting the chicken breasts into 2-inch cubes. Core and seed the red bell pepper, then slice it into 1-inch strips. Drain the pineapple chunks, reserving the juice for later.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the reserved pineapple juice, tamari or Bragg Liquid Aminos, minced garlic, grated ginger, and honey. Stir until well combined. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch or arrowroot with a little water to create a slurry before adding it to the sauce mixture.
- Place the chicken cubes at the bottom of the slow cooker. Layer the red bell pepper over the chicken, followed by the pineapple chunks.
- Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked when done.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid in the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the sauce to reduce. Alternatively, you can mix in the cornstarch or arrowroot slurry at this stage.
- Once cooked, give everything a gentle stir to combine. Serve the Slow Cooker Polynesian Chicken over steamed rice or quinoa, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like snap peas or carrots for added nutrition.
- Serve leftovers in wraps for a quick lunch the next day!
