This Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is a tasty dish that’s full of flavor! With juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and a delicious sauce, it’s perfect for a cozy meal.
Cooking it in the slow cooker means you can set it and forget it—just let it simmer until it’s tender and yummy. I love serving it over rice for a simple dinner that feels special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best here. Thighs will be more tender, but if you have breasts on hand, they also do the job. For a lighter option, you could use turkey breast.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple chunks add a bright flavor, but canned ones are super convenient. Just make sure to drain them so the dish isn’t too watery. Can’t find pineapple? Try mango or peach for a twist!
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce; it adds the main flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier version, look for sugar-free options, or make your simple sauce at home using tomato puree and spices.
Coleslaw: It adds crunch! Store-bought is quick and easy, but homemade slaw can be fresh and vibrant. Mix green cabbage with carrots, a bit of mayo, vinegar, and spices for a simple slaw.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Tender and Easy to Shred?
Cooking chicken until it’s tender is key in this recipe. The slow cooker does most of the work, but here are some tips to ensure perfect results:
- Keep the lid on while cooking; lifting it lets heat escape and extends cooking time.
- When it’s nearly done, check the chicken around the 4-hour mark (high) or 5-hour mark (low). It should be easily shreddable.
- If it’s still tough, cook a little longer until it pulls apart easily.
- Shred the chicken while it’s still warm; it makes the process easier.
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 cup pineapple juice (from can or fresh)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 6 hamburger buns or brioche buns, toasted
- Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade) for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep everything, and then just set your slow cooker! Depending on your setting, the chicken will take either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Plus, let’s add in 15 minutes to let your chicken soak in all that delicious saucy goodness before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker. Make sure they’re spread out evenly so they cook uniformly.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the pineapple chunks, pineapple juice, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger (if using), and a splash of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Pour and Cook:
Take your sauce mixture and pour it evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. Cover the cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. This is where all those flavors blend together beautifully!
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, carefully remove it from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should pull apart easily!
5. Mix Back and Heat:
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Stir it well to coat it in the sauce and let it warm through for an additional 15 minutes on low heat.
6. Assemble and Serve:
Grab your toasted buns and load them up with the Hawaiian chicken. Top each sandwich with a generous scoop of coleslaw for that perfect crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy your amazing Hawaiian chicken sandwiches!
These sandwiches are not just flavorful but also fun to eat, making them perfect for family dinner or any gathering. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to increase the cooking time. Cook on low for about 8-9 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until fully cooked and tender, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Substitute the Barbecue Sauce?
Absolutely! You can use teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile, mix it with soy sauce for a savory twist, or even make a homemade BBQ sauce with ketchup, vinegar, and spices. Just adjust the sweetness to your preference!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze leftover chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
What Else Can I Serve with This Dish?
This Hawaiian chicken pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. For a fuller meal, consider serving with grilled vegetables or a fruit salad on the side. Enjoy experimenting with different sides!
