This Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is a tasty treat that combines juicy chicken with sweet pineapple and a savory sauce. It’s perfect for a laid-back dinner!
Throw all the ingredients in your slow cooker, and let it do the work. Who doesn’t love a meal that practically cooks itself? 🍍🍗
I love serving this dish over rice, so every bite is a blend of flavors. It’s both simple and delicious, making it a favorite in our home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tenderness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs, which are juicier and full of flavor.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh juice is great, but canned pineapple juice works perfectly too. It’s convenient and brings that sweet flavor. If you’re out, orange juice can be a tasty substitute.
Barbecue Sauce: Use any barbecue sauce you love! Homemade adds a special touch, but store-bought is super handy. You can swap it for teriyaki sauce for a different twist.
Coleslaw: I enjoy using a classic coleslaw mix for crunch, but you can easily replace it with a tangy slaw made from red cabbage or a crunchy salad mix for a unique twist.
How Do You Keep the Chicken Moist and Flavorful?
Keeping chicken juicy is key. Cooking in a slow cooker is perfect for this! Here are some tips:
- Place chicken in a single layer for even cooking.
- Don’t open the lid frequently; let the steam do its job.
- Shred the chicken once it’s fully cooked to soak in the sauce for added moisture.
Each step ensures your chicken turns out tender and bursting with flavor. Happy cooking!
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 barbecue sauce (use your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground ginger (or 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger)
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 6 hamburger buns or brioche buns
- Coleslaw for topping (about 2 cups, either store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of active prep time and then you’ll let your slow cooker do the magic for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, in total, you’re looking at a delicious meal ready in about 6 to 8 hours, perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, place the chicken breasts into your slow cooker in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly and become tender!
2. Make the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and ground ginger. Make sure everything is well combined for a delicious flavor.
3. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Add the drained crushed pineapple right on top of the chicken. This adds a sweet, tropical flavor!
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s tender and easy to shred.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Then, return the shredded chicken back into the sauce and stir well to combine. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to soak up all that yummy flavor.
6. Toast the Buns:
If you’d like, now is a great time to lightly toast the hamburger buns to give them a crunchy texture.
7. Assemble Your Sandwich:
To assemble, start by piling a generous amount of the shredded Hawaiian chicken onto the bottom bun. Top it off with a heap of coleslaw for that perfect crunch, and place the top bun on.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in and enjoy your sweet and savory Hawaiian chicken sandwiches! They’re great on their own or served with chips, fries, or a fresh salad on the side!
These sandwiches are not only delicious but also super easy to make—perfect for family dinners or gatherings!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. If you’re in a pinch, cook it on high for about 4-5 hours instead of low to ensure it cooks through safely.
What If I Don’t Have Pineapple Juice?
No worries! If you’re out of pineapple juice, you can substitute it with orange juice or a mix of apple juice and a little lemon juice for a similar sweet-tart flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Hawaiian chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave it or warm it on the stove until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prep everything the night before and refrigerate the ingredients. In the morning, just plug in your slow cooker, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you when you get home!
