Let me tell you, these crock pot Hawaiian chicken sandwiches are an absolute game-changer! I first stumbled upon this recipe during a busy week when I needed something delicious and easy for the family. I threw everything into the crock pot, and hours later, the smell was just heavenly! The chicken is so tender and juicy, it practically falls apart. Plus, everyone loves the sweet and tangy flavor combo of the barbecue sauce and pineapple—it’s always a hit at dinner! Trust me, you’ll want to make this one again and again for those busy nights or even casual gatherings with friends!
Ingredients for Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches
This recipe is all about simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 lbs chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless is best; they’ll cook up tender and juicy!
- 1 cup barbecue sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade sauce for that perfect sweet and smoky flavor.
- 1 cup pineapple chunks: Fresh pineapple is fantastic, but canned works too. Just drain the juice if you’re using canned!
- 1/2 cup diced red onion: This adds a nice crunch and a burst of flavor. You can adjust the amount based on your onion love!
- 8 hamburger buns: Soft, fluffy buns are ideal for holding all that delicious chicken. Consider brioche for an extra treat!
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: This is optional, but it adds a creamy, cheesy goodness that pairs perfectly with the sweet chicken.
How to Prepare Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches
Getting these crock pot Hawaiian chicken sandwiches ready is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you at the end of the day.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First things first, grab those chicken breasts and give them a quick rinse. Pat them dry with a paper towel, and then place them at the bottom of your crock pot. No need to cut them up; they’ll cook beautifully whole, soaking up all those amazing flavors as they go!
Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients
Now, this is where the magic begins! Pour your favorite barbecue sauce over the chicken—make sure to cover them well. Then, add the pineapple chunks and diced red onion on top. I love how the sweet pineapple balances the tangy sauce, and that onion adds just the right kick. Give everything a gentle stir to combine, but don’t worry about mixing it too much; it’ll all meld together as it cooks!
Step 3: Cooking Time
Time to set your crock pot! You can choose to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. If you’re home during the day, low is my favorite option—it allows the flavors to deepen and the chicken to become super tender. Just check on it toward the end of cooking; the chicken should be fully cooked and easily shred with a fork!
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once your cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid and take a moment to enjoy that mouthwatering aroma! Use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crock pot. It should fall apart effortlessly, and you can mix it back into the sauce for extra flavor. Ooh, it’s going to be so good!
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
Now for the fun part—assembly! Grab those hamburger buns and scoop generous portions of the shredded chicken onto the bottom half of each bun. If you’re feeling indulgent (and I always am!), sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top. Then, place the top bun on and voilà! You’ve got yourself a scrumptious Hawaiian chicken sandwich ready to devour.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps and the magic of the crock pot, you can set it and forget it!
- Delicious Flavors: The sweet and tangy combination of barbecue sauce and pineapple creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a family dinner, these sandwiches are always a hit and can feed a crowd!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist these tasty sandwiches—it’s a dish the whole family will enjoy.
- Gluten-Free Option: Just swap the hamburger buns for your favorite gluten-free variety, and everyone can join in on the fun!
Tips for Success
Want to take your crock pot Hawaiian chicken sandwiches to the next level? Here are some pro tips that I’ve learned along the way to make sure they turn out perfectly every time!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pineapple really elevates the dish with its bright flavor. If you can, go for fresh rather than canned for that extra burst of sweetness!
- Adjust the Barbecue Sauce: Everyone has their preference when it comes to barbecue sauce. Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust it to your liking! A little extra sweetness or a hint of spice can make all the difference.
- Try Different Buns: Experiment with different types of buns! Brioche or whole grain can add a unique flavor and texture to your sandwiches.
- Add Some Crunch: If you love a little crunch, consider adding coleslaw on top of your chicken before putting the bun on. It adds texture and a refreshing contrast to the tender chicken!
- Keep an Eye on the Cooking Time: Every crock pot is different! If you’re using a newer model, check your chicken a little earlier than suggested to avoid overcooking.
- Make It Ahead of Time: These sandwiches are perfect for meal prep! You can cook a batch and store the shredded chicken in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat and assemble when you’re ready to eat!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making these sandwiches a family favorite! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about what’s going into these delicious crock pot Hawaiian chicken sandwiches! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values for one sandwich:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 25g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates, and they can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But hey, knowing what’s in your food is always a good idea, right? Enjoy your tasty, satisfying sandwiches without any guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe! Just keep in mind that it will require a bit more cooking time. I recommend cooking on low for about 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours. Always make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving. It’s super convenient if you forgot to thaw your chicken ahead of time!
What can I substitute for barbecue sauce?
If you’re looking to switch things up, there are plenty of alternatives! You can try teriyaki sauce for a sweet Asian twist, or use a honey mustard glaze if you like a bit of tang. For a spicier kick, hot sauce mixed with a little honey can give you that sweet-heat combo. Just adjust the amount to suit your taste—there’s no wrong way to do it!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is a breeze! Just place any extra shredded chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It’ll keep well for about 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. You can even add a splash of barbecue sauce to bring back that delicious flavor! And if you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months—just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal even more delightful, consider pairing these scrumptious crock pot Hawaiian chicken sandwiches with some tasty sides! Here are a few of my favorites:
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw is a perfect companion to balance out the sweet flavors of the sandwiches. I love adding a bit of pineapple to the slaw for an extra tropical twist!
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries not only add a nice pop of color to your plate, but they also provide a deliciously sweet contrast to the savory chicken. Bake or air fry them for a healthier option!
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Nothing says summer like some fresh corn on the cob! Grill it up and slather it with a little butter and seasoning for a mouthwatering side dish.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a fresh touch to the meal. Toss in some avocado and nuts for added texture and flavor!
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with tropical fruits like mango, kiwi, and berries not only complements the sandwiches but also adds a burst of color and sweetness to the table.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser! Whether you prefer classic or a twist with herbs and mustard, it’s a great side to serve alongside your sandwiches.
Mix and match these sides to create a delicious spread that everyone will love! Trust me, your family and friends will be raving about this meal long after the last bite!
For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!
For tips on the health benefits of pineapple, visit Healthline.
To learn more about the nutritional value of chicken, check out NCBI.
Print
Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches for Comforting Family Dinners
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and easy crock pot Hawaiian chicken sandwiches.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 8 hamburger buns
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in the crock pot.
- Add barbecue sauce, pineapple chunks, and red onion.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred chicken with two forks.
- Serve on hamburger buns and top with cheese.
Notes
- Use fresh pineapple for better flavor.
- Adjust barbecue sauce to taste.
- Can add coleslaw for crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: crock pot, Hawaiian chicken, sandwiches