This Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is a tasty dish that’s simple to make! Just throw chicken, pineapple, and sweet soy sauce in the slow cooker, and let it cook.
The sweet and tangy flavors will have your taste buds dancing! I love serving it over rice for a complete meal. It’s a real winner on busy days! 🍍🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result, but breasts work well too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use turkey breast instead.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice is great if you have it, but canned juice is just as good. You can substitute it with orange juice for a different flavor twist.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control salt levels. For a gluten-free option, tamari sauce works perfectly. If you need a soy sauce alternative, try coconut aminos.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness. If you’re avoiding refined sugar, organic coconut sugar or pure maple syrup can do the trick. Just adjust the quantity to taste.
Coleslaw: You can use pre-packaged coleslaw for convenience, but homemade coleslaw gives it a fresh touch. Try using red cabbage or adding apple for a unique crunch.
How Do You Ensure Your Chicken Turns Out Perfectly Shredded?
Shredding the chicken correctly can elevate your sandwich game! After cooking, follow these tips:
- Use two forks to pull apart the chicken gently. Let the chicken sit in the sauce for a few minutes after shredding to soak in all that flavor.
- Make sure to shred the chicken while it’s still warm. Cold chicken is tougher to shred.
- If you’re short on time, you can use a hand mixer. Just blend on low speed until shredded. It’s fast and works like a charm!
Following these simple techniques will help you achieve the perfect texture for your Hawaiian chicken sandwiches. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup pineapple juice (preferably from canned pineapple)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (canned, drained slightly)
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger or 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- 6 hamburger buns or slider buns
- Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade) for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires either 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. So, you can set it up in the morning and have a delicious meal waiting for you in the evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Place your chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker. Make sure they are spread out as much as possible for even cooking!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, chopped onion, crushed pineapple, ketchup, vinegar, ginger, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are nice and blended.
3. Pour and Cook:
Carefully pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring that all the chicken is covered. Cover with the lid and set your slow cooker to low for 6-7 hours, or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is ready when it’s tender and easy to shred!
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. This allows it to soak up all that delicious sauce! Mix the shredded chicken well with the sauce to ensure every bit is flavorful.
5. Toast the Buns:
If desired, lightly toast the hamburger buns to add a bit of crunch. This is optional, but it can enhance the texture!
6. Assemble Your Sandwiches:
Grab a bun and pile on a generous portion of the Hawaiian shredded chicken. Top it off with a scoop of coleslaw for added crunch and flavor, then place the top bun on.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your delicious Hawaiian chicken sandwiches are ready! Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet, tangy flavors with your family or friends!
This easy recipe is perfect for casual dinners, parties, or any time you want a tasty meal with minimal effort. Happy cooking!
FAQ: Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, make sure to check your slow cooker’s guidelines, as some recommend thawing for even cooking. If you use frozen chicken, increase the cooking time by an hour or two.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and chicken a day ahead. Just place everything in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, just plug it in and let it cook while you’re busy with your day!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water or extra sauce if needed to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve with Hawaiian Chicken?
This Hawaiian chicken is delicious served on buns, but it’s also great over rice or quinoa. You can pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
