Irresistible Slow Cooker Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches: Your New Family Favorite
Discover the ultimate weeknight hero or crowd-pleasing party dish with these juicy Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, effortlessly made right in your slow cooker! This recipe delivers succulent pulled BBQ chicken, rich with a homemade sauce that develops its depth of flavor right in the crockpot. Serve this tropical delight warm on soft Hawaiian burger buns or sliders, garnished with sweet pineapple slices and fresh green onions for an explosion of taste. It’s a guaranteed family favorite you’ll be making time and time again!
Doesn’t this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwich look absolutely incredible? What if we told you that this mouthwatering dish requires minimal effort, cooking to tender perfection in just about 5 hours in your crockpot? It’s truly a perfect solution for a busy weeknight meal, offering a convenient and delicious option that everyone will adore. But its appeal doesn’t stop there – this recipe also brilliantly doubles as fantastic party food, easily feeding a crowd at your next gathering or celebration. The beauty of slow cooking lies in its simplicity and the deep flavors it produces.
The chicken breasts cook low and slow, allowing them to thoroughly absorb all the vibrant, tropical flavors of the evolving BBQ sauce. This gentle cooking process ensures the chicken becomes incredibly tender, making it easy to shred into juicy pieces. Once shredded, a few additional ingredients are introduced to the sauce to enhance its richness and achieve that perfect, thick consistency. Everything is then mixed back together, ensuring every strand of chicken is coated in the delectable sauce, and returned to the crockpot to keep warm until you’re ready to serve this amazing meal. The aroma alone will have everyone eagerly awaiting dinner!
Effortless Hawaiian BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches in the Crockpot
Imagine deliciously tender pulled chicken, infused with a tantalizing Hawaiian BBQ sauce, all prepared with minimal fuss. Our Crockpot BBQ pulled chicken with pineapple is exactly that – an incredibly easy and flavorful recipe. It utilizes simple, accessible ingredients that combine to create a sticky, savory, and sweet sauce that elevates the chicken to new heights. Everyday staples like rich tomato paste and classic ketchup form the base, while the star of the show, sweet pineapple juice, imparts that distinct tropical tang. Honey and molasses contribute a deep, caramelized sweetness, beautifully balanced by aromatic onion powder and savory garlic powder. This unique blend of ingredients creates a Hawaiian BBQ chicken sandwich recipe that is truly outstanding, ideal for everything from casual family dinners to lively outdoor parties and summer cookouts.
There’s an undeniable magic in the fusion of sweet and savory elements, slowly cooked together into a robust, thick BBQ sauce that generously coats every piece of juicy chicken. With bright notes of fresh pineapple and a foundational depth from tomato paste, this pulled chicken recipe offers a delightful alternative to traditional pulled pork. It boasts a similar comforting appeal but often comes out even juicier and can be a healthier option depending on your chosen cuts of chicken. The richness of the sauce, combined with the tender chicken, creates a textural and flavor experience that is simply unforgettable.
This incredibly easy recipe for Hawaiian chicken sandwiches is designed for ultimate convenience. Preparing it in the Crockpot means you can set it and forget it, perfect for those days when you’re short on time or simply don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen for lunch or dinner. Despite its simplicity, it delivers nothing short of spectacular flavor. This slow cooker Hawaiian BBQ chicken strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, mirroring the complex profiles of your favorite homemade BBQ sauces. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when cooked thoughtfully, can yield extraordinary results, making it a staple in any busy home.
One of our favorite ways to enjoy this slow cooker pulled chicken is paired with sweet Hawaiian buns. Their slightly sweet and fluffy texture provides the perfect soft, welcoming vessel for the rich, saucy BBQ chicken. With just a few straightforward steps, you can have moist and flavorful Crockpot Hawaiian chicken with pineapple ready in hardly any time at all. BBQ sandwiches are wonderfully versatile, making them a fantastic choice for various special holidays and casual get-togethers where good food is a must. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a game day feast, or a simple family dinner, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit.
Served alongside tender and sweet pineapple rings, this easy pulled chicken recipe embodies the essence of summer in a dish. Picture yourself relaxing by the pool, a refreshing cocktail or iced tea in hand, savoring every bite of this succulent BBQ chicken. The vibrant flavors evoke sunny days and tropical breezes, making it an ideal meal for warm weather. Every step of this straightforward recipe is well worth the delicious outcome, promising a memorable meal that transports your taste buds straight to the islands.
Why This Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken is the Best
Our Hawaiian BBQ Pulled Chicken isn’t just another recipe; it’s a culinary experience designed for maximum enjoyment with minimum effort. Here’s why this slow cooker marvel will quickly become a cherished part of your meal rotation:
Effortless Slow Cooker Perfection
- Quick & Easy Preparation: This easy BBQ pulled chicken comes together with minimal hands-on time, making it ideal for busy schedules. Simply combine your ingredients in the slow cooker, allow the flavors to meld beautifully, shred the tender chicken, and then return it to the Crockpot to ensure every piece is perfectly coated in that irresistible sauce. It’s designed for convenience without compromising on flavor, promising juicy, melt-in-your-mouth BBQ sandwiches every time.
A Symphony of Sweet and Savory Flavors
- Perfectly Balanced Taste: Experience a delightful dance of flavors that truly sets this dish apart. The sauce offers a subtle sweetness from ingredients like honey and molasses, with a hint of warm spice from ginger. These sweet notes are expertly balanced by the robust, savory depth of tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and pungent onion. The addition of bright pineapple juice adds a tropical zest, creating a complex and incredibly satisfying flavor profile that is both comforting and exotic.
The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser for Any Occasion
- Versatile for Gatherings: These slow cooker Hawaiian BBQ sandwiches are incredibly versatile and perfect for a wide array of celebrations and casual get-togethers. Imagine serving them up for festive occasions like Easter brunch, Memorial Day barbecues, Fourth of July cookouts, birthday parties, or Labor Day feasts. Their universal appeal and easy-to-eat format make them a guaranteed hit with guests of all ages, ensuring your table is always filled with delicious food.
Kid-Approved Deliciousness
- Family-Friendly Favorite: Parents, rejoice! This recipe is a proven winner with the younger crowd. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the tender, easy-to-eat shredded chicken, makes these sandwiches irresistible to kids. If you’re searching for a meal that will be gobbled up in seconds and earn rave reviews from even the pickiest eaters, you’ve found your perfect match with these tasty Hawaiian BBQ chicken sandwiches.
Healthier & Juicier Than Pulled Pork
- A Lighter, Flavorful Alternative: While pulled pork is a classic, this Hawaiian pulled chicken offers a fantastic, often juicier, and leaner alternative without sacrificing any flavor. Chicken breast or thighs absorb the vibrant sauce beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s both satisfying and a bit lighter on the palate, perfect for those seeking a fresh take on a beloved BBQ staple.
Essential Ingredients for Your Tropical BBQ Chicken
Crafting these flavorful Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches starts with a selection of key ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building the dish’s signature taste. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:
The Chicken Base
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The foundation of these easy BBQ Crockpot sandwiches. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensures a lean, juicy, and tender shredded chicken that readily absorbs the sauce. For an even richer flavor and more tender texture, consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stand up beautifully to slow cooking and become incredibly succulent.
Crafting the Signature Hawaiian BBQ Sauce
- Ketchup: Your go-to tomato-based ketchup forms the sweet and tangy base of our homemade BBQ sauce. It provides a familiar, comforting flavor that’s essential for any great barbecue sauce.
- Pineapple Juice: This is the secret ingredient that infuses these Hawaiian chicken sandwiches with their unmistakable bright, bold, and tropical flavor. It adds a natural sweetness and acidity that perfectly complements the other sauce components.
- Low Sodium Soy Sauce: A savory umami base that adds depth and complexity to the sauce. It balances the sweetness and brings out an authentic Asian-inspired nuance. If preferred, coco aminos can be used as a gluten-free and soy-free alternative.
- Honey: Sticky, local honey serves as a wonderful natural sweetener for the barbecue sauce. Its floral notes pair exceptionally well with the rich, deep sweetness of molasses, creating a layered sweetness.
- Molasses: Dark molasses is vital for imparting a deep, robust sweetness and a slightly smoky, caramelized flavor to the homemade barbecue sauce. If molasses is unavailable, pure maple syrup can be used as a substitute, offering a different but equally delicious sweet note.
- Coconut Extract: A unique addition, nutty coconut extract offers an extra hint of bold, tropical flavor, enhancing the Hawaiian theme of this pineapple chicken recipe. It provides an aromatic depth that sets this sauce apart.
- Ground Ginger: Ground ginger adds a subtle warmth and a hint of tanginess, which brightens the overall flavor profile and expertly brings out the inherent sweetness of the sauce.
- Onion Powder: Robust onion powder is a fantastic and convenient seasoning that infuses the BBQ chicken with a foundational savory flavor, ensuring the chicken is deeply seasoned from within.
- Garlic Powder: Savory garlic powder is an indispensable ingredient in almost all great meat and sauce recipes. Its pungent, aromatic qualities are crucial for creating a truly satisfying and well-rounded flavor. Without it, the sauce simply wouldn’t be the same!
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: A touch of freshly cracked black pepper adds an extra layer of subtle spice and complexity, blending seamlessly with all the other ingredients to create a harmonious flavor profile.
- Cornstarch: Mixed with cold water to create a slurry, cornstarch is essential for thickening the BBQ sauce to a luscious, clingy consistency. This ensures the sauce beautifully coats the shredded chicken.
- Tomato Paste: Smooth tomato paste acts as a natural thickener and flavor enhancer for the barbecue sauce. Its concentrated tomato flavor adds a rich, umami depth that is vital for a truly satisfying sauce.
The Perfect Accompaniments
- Hawaiian Rolls or Buns: Sweet, fluffy Hawaiian rolls or hamburger buns are the absolute perfect pairing for this easy barbecue chicken. Their slightly sweet flavor and soft texture complement the savory, tangy chicken wonderfully. You can use either the smaller rolls for sliders or the larger buns for hearty sandwiches!
- Pineapple Rings and Sliced Green Onions: These are optional but highly recommended garnishes! Fresh pineapple rings add a burst of juicy sweetness and a delightful textural contrast, while freshly sliced green onions provide a subtle zesty crunch and a pop of color, truly elevating the entire recipe.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Amazing Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken
Making these delectable Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches in your slow cooker is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a meal that’s bursting with flavor:
Preparing the Chicken & Sauce
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly at the bottom of your Crockpot. This ensures they cook thoroughly and absorb the sauce effectively.
- Whisk the Sauce: In a separate small mixing bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: ketchup, pineapple juice, low sodium soy sauce, honey, molasses, coconut extract, ground ginger, onion powder, garlic powder, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk vigorously until all these components are thoroughly combined, creating a smooth and aromatic sauce.
Slow Cooking to Perfection
- Cook the Chicken: Carefully pour the prepared Hawaiian BBQ sauce over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, making sure each piece is generously covered. Secure the lid on the slow cooker and cook on the LOW heat setting for 5 to 6 hours. This slow, gentle cooking process allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and deeply infused with flavor.
Shredding and Thickening
- Shred the Chicken: Once the cooking time is complete and the chicken is fork-tender, carefully remove it from the slow cooker. On a clean plate or in a bowl, shred the chicken using two forks or a hand mixer until it reaches your desired consistency for pulled chicken.
- Thicken the Sauce: While the chicken is out, prepare to thicken the sauce. In a small saucepan, whisk together cold water and cornstarch until a smooth slurry forms. Add the remaining sauce from the slow cooker and the tomato paste to this saucepan.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened to a rich, glossy consistency.
Bringing It All Together
- Combine & Coat: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Pour the freshly thickened Hawaiian BBQ sauce over the pulled chicken. Toss gently to ensure all the chicken is evenly coated and glistening with the flavorful sauce.
Serving Your Delicious Sandwiches
- Serve Warm: Finally, spoon generous amounts of the warm BBQ chicken onto sweet Hawaiian rolls or hamburger buns. Garnish with fresh pineapple rings and thinly sliced green onions for that authentic Hawaiian touch and an extra burst of flavor and texture. Enjoy your incredibly delicious and easy-to-make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches!
Love Them? Pin Them!
Don’t let this delightful Hawaiian pulled chicken recipe get lost! Make sure to save it to your favorite recipe board on Pinterest so you can easily find it for your next meal planning session!
Tips for Success & Variations
Enhance your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwich experience with these helpful tips and creative variations:
Make Ahead & Storage
- Storage: Leftovers of this flavorful pulled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping.
- Freezing: For longer storage, the cooked and sauced pulled chicken can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Spice It Up!
- Add Heat: If you enjoy a kick, whisk in a teaspoon or two of sriracha, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the BBQ sauce mixture before cooking. Adjust to your preferred level of spice.
Alternative Servings
- Beyond Sandwiches: While fantastic on Hawaiian rolls, this versatile chicken is also delicious served in other ways. Try it over steamed white or brown rice for a hearty bowl, or as a topping for a fresh green salad for a lighter meal. It also works wonderfully in wraps or lettuce cups.
Ingredient Swaps & Adjustments
- Faster Cooking: In a rush? You can cook these Hawaiian chicken sandwiches on HIGH heat for 3-4 hours instead of low, checking for tenderness.
- Soy Sauce Alternative: Instead of soy sauce, you can easily substitute with Worcestershire sauce for a different savory depth, or use tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Coconut Flavor: If you don’t have coconut extract, a splash of coconut milk (canned, full-fat) can also add a creamy, subtle coconut note to the sauce.
- Sweetness Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey or molasses to suit your sweet preference. Taste the sauce mixture before adding it to the slow cooker and tweak as needed.
Pairings That Complement Your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken
Complete your meal with these delightful side dishes that perfectly complement the sweet and savory flavors of your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches:
- Serve these incredible sandwiches with your favorite coleslaw for a refreshing, creamy crunch.
- Crispy homemade french fries or sweet potato fries are always a hit.
- Classic potato salad offers a comforting and hearty side.
- Rich and savory baked beans add another layer of BBQ goodness.
- Soft croissants or a simple green salad also make excellent companions.
Other Recipes You Will Enjoy
If you loved these Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, you’ll surely enjoy these other fantastic recipes from our collection:
- Hawaiian Ham Balls with Pineapple Sauce (pictured above)
- Dr. Pepper BBQ Pork Sandwiches
- Homemade BBQ Sauce
- BBQ Pork Ribs
- Hawaiian Pork Sliders
- Slow Cooker Buffalo Pulled Pork with Celery Slaw
- BBQ Little Smokies
- Instant Pot Dr. Pepper Ribs
- Pulled Pork with Dorothy Lynch Cole Slaw
Let’s make some Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches and bring a taste of paradise to your table! 
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Print Recipe
Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches {in the crock pot}
Equipment
- 12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
- Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Nonstick 1-Quart Saucepan with Lid
- Pulled Pork Shredder Claws
- Crock-Pot Cook & Carry 6-Quart Oval Portable Manual Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast halves
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tsp molasses
- 1/2 tsp coconut extract
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 Tbsp cold water
- 1 Tbsp cornstarch
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 6 Hawaiian hamburger buns
- 6 Pineapple Rings and sliced Green Onions for serving
Instructions
- Place chicken in a crockpot.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together ketchup, pineapple juice, low sodium soy sauce, honey, molasses, coconut extract, ginger, onion powder, garlic powder and black pepper.
- Pour sauce over chicken in the slow cooker, cover with the lid and cook on low heat for 5 – 6 hours.
- Remove chicken from slow cooker, shred and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together cold water and cornstarch, pour in the sauce from the slow cooker, and add tomato paste. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, then reduce heat and simmer 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Return chicken to slow cooker and pour sauce over chicken. Toss to coat evenly.
- Serve warm on Hawaiian Roll hamburger buns and top with pineapple rings and green onions.
Notes
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on July 13, 2014. It has been updated to improve user experience and re-shared on March 9, 2022.
Original recipe from Cheese Curd in Paradise