This Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is a fun and tasty dish! With chicken, sweet pineapple, and a hint of soy sauce, it brings a taste of the islands to your table.
Cooking is a breeze with the slow cooker—just toss everything in and let it do its magic. You’ll love the juicy chicken and sweet flavors that give you a mini getaway on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. They stay juicy and tender when cooked slowly. If you prefer chicken breasts, they work, but may need a little added moisture.
Pineapple Juice: The juice adds sweetness and tang. You can use fresh pineapple juice, or if unavailable, bottled juice works fine. For a twist, orange juice can also be a great substitute.
Barbecue Sauce: A sweet barbecue sauce really complements the pineapple. If you’re looking for a healthier option, homemade barbecue sauce or even a teriyaki sauce can be fun alternatives.
Coleslaw: Coleslaw is optional but offers a crunchy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, a simple cabbage salad or even a slaw made with carrots can work well.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Shreds Perfectly?
Getting perfectly shredded chicken is key for your sandwiches! Here’s how to do it right:
- Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). It should fall apart easily when you pull it with forks.
- Once you remove it from the slow cooker, let it rest for a few minutes before shredding. This helps retain some juices.
- Use two forks or your hands (if it’s cool enough) to shred the chicken. Aim for bite-sized pieces that will hold well on the buns.
- After shredding, mix it back into the slow cooker with the sauce. This makes sure every piece is deliciously coated.
Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (choose a sweet style)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger powder (or 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 small can (about 8 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
- 4-6 hamburger buns, to serve
- Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade) for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 6-7 hours to cook on low (or 3-4 hours on high). It’s a great recipe to set in the morning and come home to a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Make sure they are laid flat for even cooking.
2. Create the Sauce:
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the pineapple juice, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined, and then pour this tasty sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.
3. Add Pineapple Chunks:
Now, add the drained pineapple chunks on top of the chicken and sauce. This will really enhance the tropical flavor!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid. If cooking on low, let it cook for 6-7 hours. For a faster option, set it on high for 3-4 hours. You’re looking for the chicken to be very tender and easy to shred.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce to coat it evenly. Keep it warm on low for about 10-15 minutes to soak up more flavor.
6. Toast the Buns:
If you’d like, lightly toast the hamburger buns in a toaster or on a skillet for a little extra crunch.
7. Assemble Your Sandwiches:
To serve, pile a generous amount of the shredded Hawaiian chicken onto the bottom half of each bun. Top it with coleslaw for some added crunch and flavor, then place the bun top on.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your sandwiches immediately while warm, and enjoy the juicy, sweet Hawaiian flavors alongside the refreshing coleslaw. It’s perfect for a casual dinner or gathering!
This dish is sure to bring smiles to the table with its delicious tropical twist. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Thighs?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs! Just make sure to cook them on the high setting for a bit longer, around 4-5 hours, to ensure they reach the appropriate temperature and become tender.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’d like to add some heat, try incorporating red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the sauce. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust according to your spice preference. You can also serve the sandwiches with sliced jalapeños on top for extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a pot on the stove over low heat, or use the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute pork (like pork shoulder) or even beef if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed; pork may take a bit longer to become tender, while beef may require different seasoning.
