This Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken is a real treat! It’s juicy chicken cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce made with pineapple and soy sauce. Perfect for those busy days!
I love how simple it is to make. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work—it’s basically magic! Serve it over rice for a delightful meal that everyone loves!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness, but breasts work well too. If you’re avoiding meat, try using jackfruit for a plant-based option.
Pineapple Juice: For a fresher flavor, you can use freshly squeezed pineapple juice. If you’re out, orange juice can work as a sweet substitute!
Barbecue Sauce: A sweeter barbecue sauce pairs perfectly with the pineapple. If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, try sugar-free barbecue sauce or make your own with tomato sauce and a bit of honey.
Ground Ginger: This adds a warm flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can skip it or replace it with a bit of fresh grated ginger for a brighter taste instead.
What’s the Best Way to Shred Chicken?
Shredding the chicken properly is key to making this dish great! Here’s how to do it:
- After cooking, remove the chicken from the slow cooker using tongs.
- Let it cool a few minutes, then use two forks to pull the chicken apart into smaller pieces.
- For quicker shredding, you can also use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment on low speed.
Make sure to return the shredded chicken back to the sauce in the cooker, so it stays juicy and flavorful!
Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 to 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup pineapple juice (from canned pineapple or fresh)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (preferably a sweeter variety)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger (optional)
- 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
- 6 hamburger buns or sandwich rolls
- Coleslaw for topping (optional, but recommended)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Then, it cooks for about 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. So, you can set it in the morning and enjoy a delicious meal in the evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by placing your chicken breasts or thighs right into the slow cooker. This is the base of your Hawaiian chicken, so make sure they are scattered evenly!
2. Mixing the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground ginger (if using). This flavorful sauce is what makes the chicken so tasty!
3. Combining Everything:
Now pour the sauce mixture all over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure all the chicken is well coated. Then, sprinkle the drained crushed pineapple on top for that extra fruity flavor.
4. Cooking the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. When the chicken is tender, it’s ready to be shredded!
5. Shredding the Chicken:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. It should fall apart easily! Then, return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce. Let’s make sure it’s all deliciously combined!
6. Final Cooking:
Let the shredded chicken cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on low. This will help it absorb even more of the yummy flavors from that amazing sauce.
7. Serving Time:
Now it’s time to eat! Pile that juicy Hawaiian chicken onto your hamburger buns and top it off with coleslaw if you like. Serve it warm and enjoy those delightful sweet and tangy flavors!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure the slow cooker has enough time to fully cook it. If using frozen, cook on high for about 4-5 hours instead of the typical 3-4 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. For a low-sodium option, look for a reduced-sodium soy sauce to get a similar flavor without as much salt.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. It’s great for meal prep, too!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Sure! You can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance, refrigerate it, and then cook it in the slow cooker when you’re ready. Just ensure you warm it up thoroughly before serving!
