Name: Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 20 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken breast; ½ cup ketchup; ⅓ cup pineapple juice; ¼ cup soy sauce; ¼ cup honey; 2½ tsp molasses; ¼ tsp liquid smoke; ¼ tsp coconut extract; ½ tsp ginger; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ tsp garlic powder; freshly-ground black pepper; 1 tbsp cold water; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp tomato paste; onions; onions; For Glazed Pineapple:; 6 pineapple rings; 4 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp butter

Get ready to transport your taste buds to the tropical paradise of Hawaii with these delicious pulled chicken sliders. The combination of tender chicken, sweet and tangy sauce, and caramelized pineapple will make these sliders the star of your next meal, perfect for any occasion.

Photos of Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders Recipe

When preparing this recipe, some ingredients may not be common in your pantry. Liquid smoke adds a smoky flavor without grilling, and coconut extract provides a tropical hint. Molasses gives depth to the sauce, while pineapple juice is essential for that classic Hawaiian sweetness. Ensure you have these on hand for the best results.

Ingredients For Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders

Chicken breast: The main protein component, tender and juicy.

Ketchup: Provides the base for the sauce with a tangy sweetness.

Pineapple juice: Adds a fresh, tropical flavor.

Soy sauce: Brings a salty, umami depth to the sauce.

Honey: Offers natural sweetness and helps to balance flavors.

Molasses: For a rich, deep sweetness.

Liquid smoke: Adds a smoky flavor without needing a grill.

Coconut extract: Enhances the tropical taste.

Ginger: Gives a warm, spicy undertone.

Onion powder: For a mild onion flavor without the texture.

Garlic powder: Adds a savory, garlicky depth.

Black pepper: Freshly-ground for a slight heat and aroma.

Cold water: Used to mix with cornstarch for thickening.

Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce.

Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor to enrich the sauce.

Onions: For additional flavor and texture in the sliders.

Pineapple rings: Caramelized for a sweet, smoky contrast.

Brown sugar: Used for glazing the pineapple.

Butter: Helps in caramelizing the pineapple rings.

One reader, Cullie Werner says:

These Hawaiian pulled chicken sliders are a hit! The chicken is tender and flavorful, and the glazed pineapple adds a perfect touch of sweetness. Easy to make and absolutely delicious. Perfect for any gathering!

Cullie Werner

Cooking Techniques for Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders Recipe

How to shred chicken: After cooking the chicken in the slow cooker, use two forks to pull the meat apart into shreds. How to thicken sauce: Whisk together cold water and cornstarch in a saucepan, then add the sauce from the slow cooker and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently, then simmer until thickened. How to glaze pineapple: Melt butter in a skillet, sprinkle brown sugar on pineapple rings, and sauté until golden on both sides.

How To Make Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders

These incredibly flavorful Hawaiian pulled chicken sliders yields a sweet, savory, and tangy lunch meal that’ll have you wanting seconds!

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 5 hours

Total: 5 hours 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2lbschicken breast,halves, boneless, skinless
½cupketchup
⅓cuppineapple juice,apple juice could be substituted
¼cupsoy sauce,low sodium
¼cuphoney
2½tspmolasses
¼tspliquid smoke
¼tspcoconut extract
½tspginger,ground
½tsponion powder
½tspgarlic powder
freshly-ground black pepper,to taste
1tbspcold water
1tbspcornstarch
2tbsptomato paste
onions,green, diced, optional
onions,red, grilled

For Glazed Pineapple:

6pineapple rings,fresh, cut about ½-inch thick
4tbspbrown sugar,divided
1tbspbutter,divided

Instructions

Place the chicken in a 6 or 7-quart slow cooker. In a mixing bowl, whisk together ketchup, pineapple juice, low sodium soy sauce, honey, molasses, liquid smoke, coconut extract, ginger, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Pour the sauce over chicken in the slow cooker, cover with the lid, and cook on low heat for 5 to 6 hours.
Remove chicken from the slow cooker, shred and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, whisk together cold water and cornstarch, pour in sauce from slow cooker, and add tomato paste.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Reduce the heat and simmer for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until thickened.
Return the chicken to the slow cooker, or the mixing bowl, pour the sauce over the chicken and toss to evenly coat.
Serve warm on hamburger buns, along with glazed or grilled pineapple and diced green onions or grilled red onions.

Glazed Pineapple:

Working in 2 separate batches, melt 1 tablespoon butter in a 10-inch non-stick skillet.
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon brown sugar on one side of the pineapple rings, about 1 teaspoon per ring. Add the pineapple to the skillet, brown sugar side down, and saute over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes until golden on the bottom.
Sprinkle another 1 tablespoon over the tops of the pineapple rings in the pan,1 teaspoon per ring, then flip and cook the opposite side for about 3 minutes until lightly browned. Repeat this process with the remaining 3 pineapple rings.

Nutrition

Calories: 436.30kcal
Fat: 16.14g
Saturated Fat: 5.29g
Trans Fat: 0.24g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.31g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.12g
Carbohydrates: 40.59g
Fiber: 1.10g
Sugar: 34.29g
Protein: 33.28g
Cholesterol: 101.85mg
Sodium: 907.52mg
Calcium: 50.99mg
Potassium: 634.13mg
Iron: 2.08mg
Vitamin A: 62.45µg
Vitamin C: 7.13mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders

When shredding chicken, use two forks to pull the meat apart while it's still warm. This ensures the chicken shreds easily and evenly, creating a perfect texture for your sliders.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders

Use pre-cooked chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked chicken breast from the store. Simply shred and add to the sauce.

Buy pre-cut pineapple: Purchase pre-cut pineapple rings to skip the slicing step.

Use a pressure cooker: Speed up the cooking process by using a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker.

Pre-make the sauce: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for quick assembly.

Skip the glaze: Use canned pineapple rings without glazing to save time on the pineapple preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders Recipe

chicken breast - Substitute with pork shoulder: Pork shoulder has a similar texture and richness, making it a great alternative for pulled meat recipes.
ketchup - Substitute with tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can provide a similar tomato base, though you may need to adjust the sweetness and tanginess with additional sugar and vinegar.
pineapple juice - Substitute with orange juice: Orange juice offers a similar acidity and sweetness, though it will impart a slightly different citrus flavor.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that provides a similar umami flavor.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a comparable sweetness and viscosity, though it will add a distinct maple flavor.
molasses - Substitute with dark corn syrup: Dark corn syrup can mimic the sweetness and thickness of molasses, though it lacks the same depth of flavor.
liquid smoke - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can provide a smoky flavor, though it will also add a bit of spice and color.
coconut extract - Substitute with vanilla extract: Vanilla extract can add a sweet, aromatic flavor, though it won't replicate the coconut taste.
ginger - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can add warmth and spice, though it will change the overall flavor profile.
onion powder - Substitute with dried minced onion: Dried minced onion can provide a similar onion flavor, though it will have a slightly different texture.
garlic powder - Substitute with granulated garlic: Granulated garlic offers a similar flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
freshly-ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can provide a similar heat and flavor, though it will be less visually noticeable.
cold water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add additional flavor to the dish.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can thicken sauces similarly to cornstarch and is often used as a gluten-free alternative.
tomato paste - Substitute with sun-dried tomato puree: Sun-dried tomato puree can provide a concentrated tomato flavor, though it may be slightly sweeter.
onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor compared to onions.
pineapple rings - Substitute with mango slices: Mango slices can provide a similar tropical sweetness and texture.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar offers a similar sweetness with a slight caramel flavor.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee provides a similar richness and can be used in the same quantities.

Serving Suggestions for Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders

Serve on mini brioche buns: Use mini brioche buns instead of regular hamburger buns to add a touch of elegance and a buttery flavor that complements the pulled chicken.
Layer with glazed pineapple: Place a glazed pineapple ring on top of the pulled chicken for a sweet and tangy contrast. The caramelized edges will add a beautiful golden hue to the presentation.
Garnish with microgreens: Add a small handful of microgreens on top of the glazed pineapple for a fresh, vibrant touch that enhances the visual appeal and adds a slight peppery flavor.
Use a drizzle of sauce: Drizzle a small amount of the thickened sauce over the top of the pulled chicken and pineapple to add a glossy finish and extra flavor.
Serve with a side of pickled vegetables: Offer a small side of pickled red onions or pickled cucumbers to add acidity and crunch, balancing the sweetness of the pineapple and honey in the dish.
Present on a wooden board: Arrange the sliders on a rustic wooden board for a visually appealing and professional presentation that highlights the artisanal nature of the dish.
Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds: Lightly sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top of the sliders for added texture and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the soy sauce in the pulled chicken.
Serve with a tropical drink: Pair the sliders with a small glass of pineapple juice or a tropical cocktail to enhance the Hawaiian theme and provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pulled Chicken Sliders

Slow cooker: Used to cook the chicken slowly over a period of 5 to 6 hours, ensuring it becomes tender and absorbs all the flavors of the sauce.
Mixing bowl: Utilized to whisk together the ingredients for the sauce before pouring it over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Whisk: Essential for combining the sauce ingredients smoothly and ensuring there are no lumps.
Medium saucepan: Needed to thicken the sauce after the chicken is cooked by boiling it with cornstarch and tomato paste.
Stirring spoon: Used to stir the sauce constantly while it thickens to prevent it from burning or sticking to the pan.
Shredding forks: Helps in shredding the cooked chicken into fine pieces, making it easier to mix with the sauce.
Non-stick skillet: Used to glaze the pineapple rings with butter and brown sugar, ensuring they don’t stick to the pan.
Spatula: Handy for flipping the pineapple rings in the skillet to ensure they are evenly glazed on both sides.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the liquid ingredients like pineapple juice, soy sauce, and honey.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like molasses, liquid smoke, and spices.
Hamburger buns: The base for serving the pulled chicken sliders, providing a soft and slightly sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
Knife: Needed for dicing the green onions or slicing the red onions for serving with the sliders.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders

To store leftover hawaiian pulled chicken, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to reheat, warm the pulled chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of pineapple juice or water to help moisten the meat if needed.
For longer storage, you can freeze the pulled chicken for up to 2-3 months:
- Portion the cooled chicken into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers with the date and contents for easy reference.
- To thaw, transfer the frozen pulled chicken to the refrigerator overnight or place the sealed container in a bowl of cold water for faster thawing.
- Reheat the thawed chicken in a skillet or microwave until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If you have leftover glazed pineapple slices, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or enjoy them cold as a snack.
Assembled sliders are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat, unwrap the slider and warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through.

How To Reheat Leftover Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders

To reheat leftover hawaiian pulled chicken sliders, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that the sliders are heated through without drying out the chicken or making the buns too crispy.
Wrap the sliders individually in aluminum foil. This will help to retain moisture and prevent the buns from becoming soggy. If you have any extra sauce from the original recipe, you can spoon a little over the chicken before wrapping the sliders.
Place the wrapped sliders on a baking sheet and put them in the preheated oven. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sliders are heated through and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
If you prefer a slightly crispy exterior on your buns, you can unwrap the sliders for the last 5 minutes of reheating. This will allow the buns to toast slightly and give them a nice texture.
For a quicker reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place the sliders on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. However, keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer bun texture compared to oven reheating.
If you have any leftover glazed pineapple, you can reheat it separately in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This will help to maintain the texture and flavor of the pineapple.
Once the sliders are heated through, let them cool for a minute or two before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and prevent any potential burns from the hot chicken or sauce.

Interesting Trivia About Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders

A unique aspect of this Hawaiian pulled chicken sliders recipe is the use of pineapple juice and coconut extract in the sauce, which adds a tropical twist to the traditional pulled chicken.

Budget-Friendly: Making Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders at Home

This Hawaiian pulled chicken sliders recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breast, pineapple juice, and soy sauce are affordable and often found in most kitchens. The use of a slow cooker makes it energy-efficient. The addition of glazed pineapple and onions adds a gourmet touch without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $20-$25 USD.

Are Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Hawaiian pulled chicken sliders recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:

The recipe contains a significant amount of added sugars from ingredients like ketchup, honey, molasses, and brown sugar, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues when consumed in large quantities.
Soy sauce, even low-sodium varieties, can still add a considerable amount of sodium to the dish, which may be a concern for those with high blood pressure or other sodium-sensitive conditions.
The use of butter in the glazed pineapple adds additional saturated fat to the recipe.

However, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients, such as:

Chicken breast, which is a lean protein source
Pineapple, which provides vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber
Onions, which offer various health benefits due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of added sugars by using less honey, molasses, and brown sugar, or replace them with natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extract
Opt for a sugar-free or reduced-sugar ketchup to further decrease the added sugar content
Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to lower the sodium content while still maintaining a similar flavor profile
Replace butter with a healthier cooking oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, when sautéing the pineapple rings
Serve the pulled chicken on whole-grain buns or lettuce wraps to increase the fiber content and reduce the overall carbohydrate intake
Add more vegetables to the sliders, such as shredded carrots, cabbage, or bell peppers, to boost the nutrient density of the meal

Editor's Opinion on the Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders Recipe

This Hawaiian pulled chicken sliders recipe is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of pineapple juice, honey, and molasses creates a rich, tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tender, shredded chicken. The addition of liquid smoke and coconut extract adds depth and a hint of exotic flair. The glazed pineapple rings provide a caramelized touch that elevates the dish, while the green onions or grilled red onions add a fresh, crisp contrast. Overall, it's a well-balanced and flavorful dish perfect for a casual gathering or a fun weeknight dinner.

Enhance Your Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Tropical Mango Salsa: Add a burst of tropical flavor with a vibrant mango salsa. The sweetness of the mangoes pairs perfectly with the savory pulled chicken, creating a delightful contrast that will transport your taste buds straight to the islands.

Coconut Rice: Complement your sliders with a side of coconut rice. The creamy, slightly sweet coconut milk infuses the rice with a rich flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the Hawaiian-inspired chicken.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: For a touch of elegance, serve grilled asparagus drizzled with lemon zest. The citrus notes and the slight char from the grill add a refreshing and sophisticated element to your meal.

Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries are the perfect sidekick to your sliders. Their natural sweetness and crunchy texture provide a delightful contrast to the tender, saucy pulled chicken.

Pineapple Coleslaw: Elevate your coleslaw game with a pineapple twist. The crunchy cabbage and carrots mixed with juicy pineapple chunks and a tangy dressing create a refreshing and zesty side dish that complements the Hawaiian flavors of the sliders.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms. The earthy mushroom caps are filled with a rich mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the tender mushroom texture, creating a bite-sized treat that's both elegant and satisfying. Garnish with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh parsley for an added touch of flavor and presentation.

Shrimp Cocktail: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic shrimp cocktail. Plump, juicy shrimp are poached until tender and served chilled with a zesty cocktail sauce. The sauce, a blend of ketchup, horseradish, and a splash of lemon juice, adds a tangy kick that perfectly complements the sweet shrimp. Arrange the shrimp around a bowl of sauce on a bed of crushed ice for a stunning presentation that will impress your guests.

Desserts:

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Imagine a Pineapple Upside-Down Cake that perfectly complements your Hawaiian pulled chicken sliders. This dessert features caramelized pineapple rings and a moist, buttery cake base. The brown sugar and butter meld together to create a rich, gooey topping that pairs beautifully with the tropical flavors of the pineapple. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent finish to your meal.

Coconut Pineapple Sorbet: For a refreshing and light dessert, consider a Coconut Pineapple Sorbet. This icy treat combines the creamy texture of coconut milk with the bright, tangy flavor of pineapple juice. It's a perfect palate cleanser after the savory sliders. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes and a few fresh mint leaves to add a touch of elegance and extra flavor.

Why trust this Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders Recipe:

This recipe combines the sweet and savory flavors of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and honey to create a mouthwatering dish. The use of liquid smoke and coconut extract adds a unique depth of flavor, while the slow-cooking method ensures the chicken is tender and juicy. The addition of glazed pineapple rings elevates the sliders, making them perfect for any occasion. Trust this recipe for its well-balanced ingredients and straightforward instructions, guaranteeing a delicious result every time.

Share your thoughts on this Hawaiian Pulled Chicken Sliders Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

How do I store leftover Hawaiian pulled chicken?

I usually store any leftover Hawaiian pulled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great in this recipe and can add a bit more flavor and juiciness. Just follow the same instructions and cooking times.

What can I use if I don't have liquid smoke?

If you don't have liquid smoke, you can skip it or use a smoked paprika or a bit of chipotle powder for a smoky flavor. It won't be exactly the same, but it will still taste delicious.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make this in an Instant Pot. Cook the chicken on high pressure for about 10-12 minutes, then do a quick release. Follow the same steps for shredding the chicken and thickening the sauce afterward.

What type of buns should I use for the sliders?

I like to use small hamburger buns or Hawaiian rolls for these sliders. They add a nice sweetness that complements the pulled chicken and glazed pineapple perfectly.