Name: Crock Pot Huli Huli Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487560H31M1S
Total time: 5 h 10 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1 cup pineapple juice; ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred); ½ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup ketchup; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 2 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); Sliced green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it delivers big, bold flavors with almost no effort. The slow cooking process makes the chicken melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the sauce is perfect for spooning over rice or vegetables. I also like that it works well for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings, and it’s a dish that everyone always seems to love.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Pineapple juice
Soy sauce
Brown sugar
Ketchup
Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
Fresh ginger, grated
Garlic cloves, minced
Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, ginger, and garlic in a bowl to make the sauce.
I place the chicken in the crock pot and pour the sauce over it.
I cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
If I want a thicker sauce, I remove the chicken and whisk cornstarch into the cooking liquid, then cook on high until thickened.
I shred or slice the chicken, return it to the sauce, and stir to coat.
I garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. I spend about 10 minutes prepping and let the crock pot do the rest—3–4 hours on high or 6–7 hours on low.

Variations

I sometimes add chunks of fresh pineapple for extra sweetness.
I use chicken drumsticks or bone-in thighs for more flavor.
I add bell peppers or snap peas in the last 30 minutes for extra vegetables.
I swap soy sauce for coconut aminos to make it gluten-free.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. I reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I make this with frozen chicken?

Yes, but I prefer to thaw it first for even cooking and better flavor absorption.

What does “Huli Huli” mean?

It means “turn turn” in Hawaiian, referring to the traditional method of turning chicken on a spit while basting.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Yes, I simmer the chicken in the sauce over low heat for about 30–40 minutes until tender.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes, I add sriracha, chili flakes, or diced fresh chili to the sauce for heat.

What should I serve with Huli Huli chicken?

I like to serve it with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

I love making crock pot Huli Huli chicken because it’s incredibly flavorful, easy, and versatile. The sweet and savory sauce paired with tender, juicy chicken always makes for a satisfying meal. Whether I’m cooking for my family or hosting friends, this dish is a reliable crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.