These Pulled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches are a tasty treat! Juicy chicken is cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce, giving it a tropical twist. Serve it on a soft bun and you’re in for a delight!
Every bite feels like a mini-vacation. Honestly, I sometimes just make extra so I can skip lunch leftovers—because who can resist these scrumptious sandwiches? 🌺
What I love most is how easy it is to prepare! Just toss everything in the slow cooker, relax, and let the magic happen. Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun party dish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish since they become tender when cooked. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use turkey breast instead, or for a juicier result, try bone-in chicken thighs.
Pineapple Juice: This ingredient brings sweetness and tropical vibes. If you don’t have pineapple juice, you can substitute with orange juice or a combination of equal parts of apple juice and a splash of vinegar for acidity.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds depth to the dish. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos, which has a similar flavor profile.
Coleslaw Mix: This usually has cabbage and carrots, but you can make your own mix with any crunchy veggies you like, such as broccoli slaw or sliced bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
Mayonnaise: A staple in the coleslaw, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt instead. It adds creaminess and protein without the extra calories.
How Do I Get the Chicken Super Tender in the Crock Pot?
The key to tender chicken is cooking it low and slow. In this recipe, the long cooking time in the Crock Pot allows the chicken to absorb flavors and break down fibrous tissues so it becomes easy to shred.
- Start by coating your chicken well in the sauce; this enhances flavor as it cooks.
- Make sure to choose the low setting for 6-7 hours if you have it, as this yields the most tender results.
- Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken well, ensuring each piece is coated in the sauce for full flavor.
How to Make Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For The Coleslaw:
- 1 cup coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 sandwich rolls or buns
- Optional garnishes: sliced green onions, cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fabulous Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 6-7 hours to cook on low or 3-4 hours on high in the Crock Pot. Just set it and forget it, and you’ll have delicious sandwiches waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Sauce:
In your Crock Pot, pour in the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
2. Add the Chicken:
Now, take the chicken breasts and add them to the sauce in the Crock Pot. Make sure the chicken is well coated with the tasty sauce. This will help it cook up flavorful and juicy!
3. Cooking the Chicken:
Cover the Crock Pot with its lid and set it to cook. You can choose to cook it on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and tender. You’ll know it’s ready when it pulls apart easily.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked perfectly, carefully take it out of the Crock Pot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the Crock Pot and stir it in the sauce so it’s nicely coated.
5. Make the Coleslaw:
In a separate bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Mix everything together well, then season with salt and pepper to taste. This coleslaw will add a crunchy, creamy topping to your sandwiches.
6. Assemble the Sandwiches:
To put together your sandwiches, take the bottom half of each sandwich roll. Pile on a generous amount of the Hawaiian chicken, and then top it off with a scoop of the coleslaw mixture.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Put the top half of the roll on your sandwich. If you want, you can add some sliced green onions or cilantro on top for a little extra flavor. Serve your sandwiches with chips on the side for a complete meal.
Enjoy your flavorful Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches—perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. To thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method: seal the chicken in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 1-2 hours. Ensure to adjust the cooking time if the chicken is only partially thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Pineapple Juice?
If you’re out of pineapple juice, you can use orange juice or a mix of apple juice and a splash of lemon juice for a similar sweet-tart flavor. Alternatively, a mixture of water and a bit of sugar can work in a pinch. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the taste of the sauce.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Sandwiches?
Leftover Hawaiian chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to keep the coleslaw separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent sogginess. You can also freeze the Hawaiian chicken (without coleslaw) for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you prefer more heat, consider adding more red pepper flakes to the sauce, or try adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the coleslaw for an extra kick. Just be mindful of your spice tolerance and adjust accordingly!
