This Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is packed with sweet pineapple and savory soy sauce for a tasty blend! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the magic!
You’ll love how simple it is—perfect for busy days! I like to serve it over rice, and let’s be real, who doesn’t enjoy a tropical twist from their kitchen? 🌺
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy flavor, but breasts work just as well. For a lighter option, you can also substitute with turkey breasts. If you’re looking for a plant-based version, try jackfruit for a similar texture!
Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice gives the best flavor, but 100% juice from a carton works fine. If you’re in a pinch, you can use canned pineapple, and reserve the juice. This adds a different sweetness to the dish!
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite brand, or make your own if you prefer a specific flavor profile. For a healthier option, look for sauces with low sugar content. You can also substitute with teriyaki sauce for an Asian twist.
Coleslaw: A crunchy topping is a must! If you want a fresh crunch, you can easily make coleslaw at home with cabbage and a dressing of your choice. You can also skip it and use sliced cucumbers or pickles for a different texture!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking chicken in a slow cooker is a fantastic way to keep it juicy, but it helps to follow a few tips. Always ensure the chicken is well coated in the sauce, as this keeps it moist during cooking.
- Start with a good amount of liquid (like the pineapple juice and barbecue sauce) to help create steam and keep everything moist.
- Cook on low heat for longer over high heat to let the flavors develop and chicken become tender. The 6-7 hour low setting is ideal.
- Avoid opening the lid too frequently, as this lets steam escape. Trust the slow cooker to do its job!
By following these tips, you’ll end up with tender and flavorful chicken every time. Enjoy!
Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2-3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup pineapple juice (preferably fresh or 100% juice)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- 4 hamburger buns or slider buns
- 1 cup coleslaw (store-bought or homemade) for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, followed by cooking time of 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. Once it’s done, a few minutes to shred the chicken and assemble the sandwiches makes it an effortless dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker. No need to cut them up; they’ll shred easily after cooking!
2. Make the Sauce:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger (if using), and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended. This sauce is the key to the sweet and savory flavor of the chicken.
3. Combine and Cook:
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker, being sure to cover it well. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. The chicken will become tender and juicy during this time!
4. Shred the Chicken:
When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid. Using two forks, shred the chicken right in the slow cooker, mixing it with the sauce to coat the meat evenly. It’s okay if it falls apart easily—that’s what we’re aiming for!
5. Prepare the Buns:
If you’d like to toast your buns, now’s the time! Toast them lightly in a toaster or on a skillet until they are slightly crispy. This adds a nice texture to your sandwich!
6. Assemble and Serve:
To make your Hawaiian chicken sandwiches, pile the shredded chicken high on a bun and top it off with a generous amount of coleslaw for that crunchy bite. Enjoy!
This recipe yields a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a casual dinner or gathering. Your family and friends will love this tropical twist on classic pulled chicken!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to increase the cooking time. Frozen chicken may take an extra 1-2 hours to cook thoroughly. Always ensure the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and add it to the chicken in the slow cooker the night before, then refrigerate. Just set your slow cooker to start cooking in the morning, and dinner will be ready when you get home!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Hawaiian chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
What Can I Substitute for Coleslaw?
If you’re not a fan of coleslaw, feel free to use other toppings like sliced cucumbers, pickled jalapeños, or even sliced avocados for creaminess! For a crunchier texture, try adding shredded carrots or diced bell peppers.
