Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches are a tasty treat! Tender chicken simmers in a sweet and tangy blend of pineapple juice and soy sauce. Perfect for a simple dinner!
These sandwiches are so easy to make, you might end up having them every week! I love piling the juicy chicken on a soft bun and adding a slice of fresh pineapple. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs give the best flavor and tenderness in this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breasts can be used, but they might turn out a bit drier. I prefer thighs for their juiciness!
Barbecue Sauce: A Hawaiian-style barbecue sauce adds a sweet and tangy twist. If you can’t find it, try a regular barbecue sauce mixed with a bit of pineapple juice or teriyaki sauce for that tropical flair.
Pineapple Chunks: Fresh chunks are great, but canned works just as well for convenience. If you’d like to switch it up, consider using diced mango for a different fruity flavor!
Coleslaw Mix: You can make your own slaw or use pre-packaged coleslaw mix to save time. If you want to avoid mayonnaise, Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute for that creaminess.
Rolls: Hawaiian rolls are sweet and soft, perfect for this dish. If you prefer a different bread, consider using regular sandwich rolls or even whole wheat for a healthier twist.
How Do I Get the Chicken Tender and Juicy in a Crock Pot?
Getting tender, juicy chicken in your crock pot is all about cooking time and moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Lay the chicken thighs in a single layer; this helps them cook evenly.
- Make sure to use enough liquid in your sauce mix. The combination of BBQ sauce and pineapple helps keep the chicken moist.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours. If you’re short on time, high for 3-4 hours works, but the texture is best with a longer cook time.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken while it’s still warm for easier shredding and mix it back with the sauce to soak up flavor.
How to Make Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (preferably Hawaiian style)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Coleslaw:
- 1/2 cup coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
For Serving:
- 4 sandwich rolls (Hawaiian rolls recommended)
- Potato chips or your choice of side
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time of 3 to 7 hours in the crock pot, depending on whether you choose to cook on low or high. The waiting will be worth it for these juicy, flavorful sandwiches!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in your crock pot. This is the base of your tasty sandwiches! In a separate bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, pineapple chunks, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This flavorful sauce will coat your chicken beautifully.
2. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the crock pot. Make sure all the chicken pieces are well-coated in that delicious sauce. You want every bite to be packed with flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Cover your crock pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken to be tender and fully cooked. The longer you cook it, the more tender it will become!
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the crock pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Then, return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir it well to combine with the sauce.
5. Make the Coleslaw:
In a small bowl, mix together the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar. Toss everything until the coleslaw is well-coated. This adds a nice crunch to your sandwiches!
6. Assemble Your Sandwiches:
Take the sandwich rolls and scoop a generous portion of the Hawaiian chicken onto the bottom half of each roll. Top it off with a spoonful of the coleslaw mixture, and then place the top half of the roll over it. Don’t be shy with the toppings—make them as loaded as you like!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your sandwiches with potato chips or your favorite side dish. Sit back and enjoy these amazing Hawaiian chicken sandwiches with friends or family. Aloha!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used as a substitute! Just keep in mind that they might become a bit drier than thighs if overcooked, so you may want to reduce the cooking time slightly. Aim for 5-6 hours on low or 3 hours on high until they are just cooked through and tender.
What Can I Substitute for Barbecue Sauce?
If you don’t have barbecue sauce on hand, you can make a quick alternative by mixing ketchup with a little honey or brown sugar, some apple cider vinegar, and a dash of soy sauce for flavor. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your preference!
Can I Make the Coleslaw Mix Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coleslaw mixture a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. For the best texture, it’s ideal to toss the coleslaw and chicken together just before serving.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken and coleslaw in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat the chicken, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. The coleslaw can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature!
