This Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is a sweet and tangy dish that cooks while you go about your day! With juicy chicken simmered in pineapple and a yummy sauce, it’s sure to please everyone.
I love how simple it is to make! Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic. Perfect over rice with a sprinkle of green onions, and dinner is a breeze! 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. You can also use thighs for richer flavor, or even a mix of both! They will all work beautifully in the slow cooker.
Pineapple Juice: Look for 100% pineapple juice if possible. In a pinch, orange juice or a mix of pineapple and orange juice can add a unique twist!
Soy Sauce: This adds umami and salty depth. If you’re avoiding soy, try coconut aminos for a similar flavor or Tamari for a gluten-free option.
Brown Sugar: This provides sweetness and caramel notes. You can substitute with honey or maple syrup, but adjust liquid levels in your sauce if needed.
Coleslaw: For crunch and creaminess, coleslaw is perfect. You can swap it with a slaw made of shredded cabbage and carrots and a vinaigrette for a lighter option.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Shredded Chicken?
Shredding chicken is a breeze with the right technique! Here’s how to get it just right:
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to cool slightly and retain moisture.
- Use two forks, placing one fork to hold the chicken steady and the other to pull apart the meat. It should fall apart easily if cooked well.
- If you prefer, you can use a hand mixer on low speed to shred the chicken quickly, but be careful not to overdo it!
Shredding the chicken while it’s warm helps maintain its juiciness and makes it easier to mix back into the sauce. Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian chicken sandwiches!
Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pineapple juice (preferably from canned pineapple)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple with juice (canned)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 6 sandwich buns or brioche buns
- Coleslaw, for serving (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 6-7 hours of cooking on low (or 3-4 hours on high) in the slow cooker. Let the chicken soak up all those sweet and tangy flavors, and you’ll have an amazing meal ready when you are!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they are spread out evenly so they cook properly!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, minced garlic, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Whisk everything together until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
3. Combine and Cook:
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Then, add the crushed pineapple along with its juice and the finely chopped onion on top. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
4. Slow Cook the Chicken:
Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is very tender and easy to shred. Get ready for your kitchen to smell amazing!
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This should be super easy if it’s cooked well!
6. Mix in the Sauce:
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it well to coat all the pieces evenly with the delicious sauce. Let it sit on low for another 15-30 minutes to really soak up those flavors.
7. Serve Up Your Sandwiches:
Finally, grab your sandwich buns and pile on the Hawaiian chicken. Top with coleslaw for a crunchy, tasty finish. Enjoy your scrumptious sandwiches!
This recipe yields juicy, flavorful shredded chicken with a sweet and tangy Hawaiian-style sauce, perfect for easy sandwiches that everyone will enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure it’s safe to cook from frozen in your slow cooker, which usually requires extending the cooking time by about 1-2 hours. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Hawaiian chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Absolutely! If you like a kick, add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños to the sauce. For an even spicier variation, try adding hot sauce to taste before serving!
What Are Some Good Sides to Serve With These Sandwiches?
Besides coleslaw, these sandwiches pair well with sweet potato fries, a fresh garden salad, or a side of fruit to complement the sweet and tangy flavors of the chicken. Enjoy a tropical vibe with a fruit salad featuring pineapple, mango, and coconut!
