This Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is a sweet and tangy delight! Made with juicy chicken, pineapple, and a special sauce, it cooks to perfection while you relax.
Honestly, the best part is coming home to that amazing smell! I love serving it over rice for an easy meal that feels fancy. You can’t go wrong with Hawaiian vibes at dinner! 🌺
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Whether you pick breasts or thighs, they both work well! I usually opt for thighs as they stay juicier. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using turkey instead.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh is great, but canned works just fine too! If you don’t have any, orange juice can be a nice (though different) substitute for sweetness.
Soy Sauce: This gives a savory punch to the dish. If you’re avoiding soy, coconut aminos provide a similar flavor with less sodium.
Brown Sugar: It is key for that sweet flavor. If you’re looking for less sugar, your favorite sugar substitute can work, keeping in mind it might alter the taste slightly.
How Do I Get the Chicken Tender and Shreddable?
The secret to tender chicken is low and slow cooking. Ensure your slow cooker is set on low for the full duration to allow flavors to meld and tenderness to develop.
- Set the slow cooker to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours to achieve perfectly cooked chicken.
- Check for doneness; the chicken should easily shred with a fork. If it’s not shredding easily, give it a little more time.
- Mix the sauce in after shredding for extra flavor on the chicken!
This approach ensures your Hawaiian chicken is as tasty as it is tender, making your sliders a hit at any meal!
Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup pineapple juice (preferably fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated ginger (optional)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- Slider buns or small sandwich rolls, for serving
- Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade) for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, then you’ll let the slow cooker do its magic for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s a stress-free meal perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts or thighs directly into the slow cooker. Make sure they’re not overlapping much for even cooking.
2. Mix Up the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, minced garlic, and if you like, the grated ginger and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until it’s nicely mixed.
3. Pour and Let It Cook:
Pour that delicious sauce mix right over the chicken in the slow cooker. It should cover the chicken nicely. Now, cover the slow cooker with the lid, and you’re ready to set it to cook!
4. Cooking Time:
Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be super tender and easy to shred when it’s done. Trust the process; the aroma will be amazing!
5. Add Pineapple for Extra Flavor:
About 30 minutes before the cooking time is complete, add the drained crushed pineapple to the slow cooker. This gives your chicken an even more tropical flavor. Stir gently to combine.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is tender, use two forks to shred it right in the slow cooker. Mix it with the sauce so every bite has that yummy flavor.
7. Assemble Your Sliders:
If you like, toast the slider buns lightly. Then, load them up with a generous portion of the Hawaiian chicken. Don’t be shy—this is the star of the show!
8. Top It Off:
Finally, add a scoop of coleslaw on top for a nice creamy crunch that pairs perfectly with the sweet chicken.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Hawaiian chicken sliders are ready to be served! Enjoy them warm for a delightful meal that the whole family will love!
This recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it a fantastic choice for dinner or gatherings!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or using the cold water method (sealed in a plastic bag). Ensure it’s fully defrosted before adding it to the slow cooker for optimal results!
What if I Don’t Have Pineapple Juice?
If you don’t have pineapple juice, you can substitute it with orange juice for a different, yet still delicious flavor. Another option is to mix apple cider or a blend of half water and half sugar for sweetness; however, the taste will differ slightly from the original recipe.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Hawaiian chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or juice to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Cook it in the slow cooker the next day, but you may need to adjust the cooking time since it will start from a cooler temperature.
