Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches are a tasty treat that’s super easy to make! Juicy chicken is cooked all day with sweet pineapple and a hint of BBQ sauce for a fun, tropical flavor.
These sandwiches are perfect for lunch or dinner, and your house will smell amazing while they cook! I love piling on the toppings, like slaw or pickles, for a crunchy twist. Yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. However, you can use thighs if you prefer a bit more flavor and juiciness. They can also be cooked from frozen!
Barbecue Sauce: Hawaiian-style barbecue sauce brings sweetness and tang. If you can’t find it, a regular barbecue sauce can be used with an extra splash of pineapple juice to mimic the tropical flavor.
Pineapple Juice: This is essential for that fruity kick. You can substitute it with orange juice or a mix of both if you’re out of pineapple juice.
Coleslaw Mix: Using a store-bought coleslaw mix saves time. If you want to go homemade, just shred cabbage and carrots! Don’t forget to add a squeeze of lemon for freshness if you skip the pre-mixed packaging.
Mayonnaise: Regular mayo is fantastic, but Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for a healthier option. It still gives creaminess but with fewer calories.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Shredded Chicken?
Shredding chicken might seem tricky, but with a few tips, it can be easy! Make sure to cook the chicken until it is fully tender. This usually takes 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use two forks to pull apart the chicken gently. Start from the thicker part of the chicken, and it should fall apart easily.
- Mix the shredded chicken back into the sauce to keep it moist and flavorful.
- If you find it difficult to shred, let it rest for a few minutes—it’s easier when it’s not piping hot!
How to Make Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (preferably Hawaiian-style)
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Sandwiches:
- 6 sandwich rolls or burger buns
- 1 cup coleslaw mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires 6-8 hours to cook in the crock pot on low (or 3-4 hours on high). After that, you’ll have a scrumptious meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. This is where all the magic will happen, so layer them well!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and all the flavors are combined.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the tasty sauce mixture over the chicken in the crock pot, making sure to coat the chicken nicely. You want it all covered in deliciousness!
4. Let It Cook:
Cover the crock pot and let it work its magic! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and shreds easily with a fork.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once your chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it right in the crock pot. Mix the shredded chicken into the sauce for an even flavor throughout.
6. Make the Coleslaw:
In a separate bowl, prepare the coleslaw by mixing the coleslaw mix with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar (if you want a touch of sweetness), and salt to taste. Stir well to combine, adjusting the seasoning if needed.
7. Toast the Rolls:
If you like, lightly toast the sandwich rolls for a little crunch. This step is optional, but it adds a nice touch!
8. Assemble Your Sandwiches:
To assemble, take the bottom half of each roll and scoop a generous portion of the Hawaiian chicken on top. Add a good amount of coleslaw, then place the top half of the roll on. Yum!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delectable sandwiches immediately, perhaps with some potato chips or your favorite side. Enjoy your delicious Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in this recipe! Just keep in mind that you’ll need to extend the cooking time. If cooking on low, aim for 8-10 hours, and for high, about 4-5 hours. There’s no need to thaw it beforehand, but ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. For a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of black pepper or skip it altogether. Taste before serving and adjust if necessary!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Hawaiian chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months; just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make the Coleslaw Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the coleslaw a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just give it a good stir before serving. If it seems a bit watery, you can add a touch more mayonnaise to balance it out!
