There’s just something about Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken Sliders that makes them impossible to resist. Imagine shredding juicy chicken that’s been simmering away all day in a sweet, tangy pineapple BBQ sauce, then piling it onto pillowy Hawaiian rolls — it’s the kind of meal that feels special enough for a party, yet comforting enough for a cozy family dinner. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply want an easy meal with major flavor, this recipe is destined to be a hit!

Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken Sliders Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about these sliders is the simple, cheerful lineup of ingredients. Each one plays a delicious role, from the bright bursts of pineapple to the fluffy rolls that hold everything together. Don’t skip any! These basics are exactly what give Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken Sliders their signature flavor.

Chicken breast: Lean, tender chicken soaks up all the flavor and shreds beautifully after slow cooking.
King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Pineapple BBQ Sauce: The sweet, tangy base for our sliders; if you can’t find this brand, any sweet BBQ sauce will do.
Dole Pineapple Slices, drained and cubed: Adds juicy bursts of tropical flavor in every bite. Fresh pineapple is delicious too, if you prefer!
White vinegar: A small splash brings just the right balance, brightening and intensifying the sauce.
King’s Hawaiian Rolls (Original Sweet or Jalapeno): These ultra-soft, slightly sweet rolls are a must for that classic slider experience.

How to Make Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Get That Chicken Cooking

Start by arranging the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Don’t worry about seasoning them now — all the flavor comes from what’s coming next! This step sets up your chicken to become ultra moist and tender as it simmers away in the sweet, tangy sauce.

Step 2: Add Sauce and Pineapple

Pour the entire bottle of King’s Hawaiian Sweet Pineapple BBQ Sauce right over the chicken, followed by the drained and cubed pineapple. You’ll notice the pineapple juice and tangy BBQ combine in the slow cooker, infusing the meat with irresistible flavor as it cooks. Cover and set the slow cooker to low, letting everything meld together for 4 to 6 hours.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken and Finish the Sauce

When the chicken is perfectly tender, carefully remove it from the sauce and set it aside on a plate. This next part is where the magic happens — add two tablespoons of white vinegar to the sauce in the slow cooker, and stir well. Then, use two forks to shred the chicken. Return it to the slow cooker, mixing everything together so the chicken drinks in every last drop of the tangy, sweet sauce.

Step 4: Assemble Your Sliders

Slice the King’s Hawaiian rolls in half if they’re not pre-sliced, and generously pile that saucy shredded chicken onto each bottom half. Spoon on a little extra pineapple sauce if you’re a fan of messy sliders — nobody’s judging! Top with the other half of the roll, and get ready to devour the best Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken Sliders you’ve ever tasted.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken Sliders

Garnishes

A little extra touch goes a long way! Sprinkle your sliders with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of green, or add a few paper-thin slices of red onion for color and crunch. If you love heat, a few pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of chipotle mayo give them a punchy, irresistible finish.

Side Dishes

Pair your Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken Sliders with crisp cole slaw, sweet potato fries, or a simple fruit salad to keep things fresh and balanced. Potato chips and crunchy pickles also make fun, easy sides for parties. These sliders love a crowd!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your sliders on a beautiful platter, or set up a DIY slider bar where everyone can build their own and choose toppings. They also make adorable appetizers if you cut each roll in half or thirds. For extra flair, add cocktail picks to each slider—perfect for potlucks or game day gatherings!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken Sliders are just as tasty the next day! Store the shredded chicken mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the rolls separate until ready to serve, so they stay soft and fluffy.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze the cooked and shredded chicken. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, squeezing out excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Only freeze the chicken and sauce—save the rolls for fresh!

Reheating

Reheat leftover pineapple chicken in a saucepan on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, or zap it in the microwave until hot. If it looks a little dry, just splash in a spoonful or two of chicken broth or pineapple juice to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Definitely! Chicken thighs are just as delicious here; they’re a bit juicier and add even more richness to the sliders. Simply swap in an equal weight and follow the same instructions.

Is there a substitute for King’s Hawaiian BBQ sauce?

Any sweet or Hawaiian-style BBQ sauce will work beautifully. If you can’t find that flavor, try regular BBQ sauce mixed with a little extra pineapple juice or even honey for sweetness.

Can I make Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken Sliders ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! You can prep the shredded chicken a day or two in advance. Just gently reheat before assembling your sliders, and add the mixture to fresh rolls right before serving for best texture.

Will this recipe work in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can adapt this in your Instant Pot by cooking on high pressure for about 12 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release, then proceed as directed with shredding and mixing in the sauce.

Are these Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken Sliders spicy?

As written, they’re sweet and tangy—the jalapeño rolls add gentle heat, but nothing overwhelming. Want it spicier? Add extra hot sauce or a few chili flakes to the sauce before cooking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to make, you’re going to love these Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken Sliders. They’re truly a crowd-pleaser, perfect for everything from summer picnics to cozy weeknight dinners. Try them soon and get ready to watch everyone reach for seconds!