This Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is a tasty blend of chicken, sweet pineapple, and a tangy sauce. It’s super simple to make and smells amazing as it cooks all day!
I love how effortless this dish is—just toss everything in and let the slow cooker do its magic. It’s like a mini Hawaiian vacation on my dinner plate! 🌺
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless are best for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breasts can work too.
Pineapple juice: Use 100% juice for the best flavor. If you’re out of juice, crushed pineapple can substitute, just add some water to balance it out.
Barbecue sauce: Choose your favorite. Sweet, tangy, or smoky flavors all work well. If you’re keeping it healthy, opt for a low-sugar version.
Soy sauce: This adds saltiness and depth. If you’re gluten-free, swap it with coconut aminos or a gluten-free soy sauce.
Coleslaw mix: You can mix your own with shredded cabbage and carrots or substitute with a bagged salad mix for convenience.
How Do You Ensure Chicken Comes Out Tender?
Cooking the chicken slowly is key to tenderness. Here are some simple tips:
- Always start with the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
- Slow cooking on low for 6-7 hours allows the meat to become super tender.
- If you’re short on time, cooking on high for 3-4 hours works too—you’ll just need to watch it closely!
Remember to shred the chicken after cooking and mix it back into the flavorful sauce for a moist finish. Enjoy your meal!
Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 3 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
- 1 cup pineapple juice (preferably 100% juice)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (8 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (optional for mixing in or serving)
- Brioche or sandwich buns, for serving
For the Coleslaw (optional topping):
- 2 cups shredded coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious slow cooker meal takes about 15 minutes of prep time. After that, you’ll need to let it cook for 6 to 7 hours on low (or 3 to 4 hours on high). So, get it going in the morning, and enjoy a comforting dinner later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. This will ensure they cook evenly and stay juicy!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, ground ginger (if you’re using it), and black pepper. This mixture will be the delightful sauce that flavors your chicken!
3. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Pour the sauce mix over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, covering them well. This step gets those flavors soaking right into the chicken.
4. Cook It Up:
Cover the slow cooker and choose your cooking time. If you have the time, cook on low for 6 to 7 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be super tender and shred easily!
5. Shred the Chicken:
After it’s done cooking, take the chicken out of the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. It should fall apart easily!
6. Mix It Back In:
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the flavorful sauce. If you want, add the drained pineapple chunks for extra sweetness and texture.
7. Prepare the Coleslaw:
If you’d like to add coleslaw, mix the mayonnaise, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Toss this dressing with the shredded coleslaw mix until everything is evenly coated.
8. Serve:
To serve, pile the Hawaiian chicken onto toasted buns, and top each with some of the coleslaw. Feel free to drizzle extra sauce from the slow cooker on top!
9. Enjoy!
Now, savor your flavorful, juicy slow cooker Hawaiian chicken sandwich! This dish is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or any casual gathering. Enjoy the delicious taste of the island right at your table!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! However, it’s best to thaw the chicken beforehand. Place the frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or quickly thaw it by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water. Thawing allows the chicken to cook evenly!
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you need a gluten-free option or don’t have soy sauce, try using coconut aminos or liquid aminos, which provide a similar salty flavor. You can also use tamari sauce for a gluten-free soy sauce alternative!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to separate it into individual portions for easy reheating later!
What Should I Serve with the Hawaiian Chicken Besides Buns?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a refreshing salad. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. The options are endless!
