Lunch: Slow-Cooker Asian Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Hoisin sauce, Sriracha sauce and Progresso™ chicken stock gives this moist, “pass-me-the-napkins” sandwich a spicy sweetness. It’s topped with ultra-easy coleslaw for a fresh taste and addictive crunch.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Slow-Cooker Asian Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Honey, often hailed as a superfood, possesses a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. With a glycemic index (GI) of 55 for one tablespoon, honey is considered a moderate GI food. This means it does not spike blood sugar levels as high or as quickly as high-GI foods, making it a better choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting overall health.

Rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, honey offers protective benefits against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, the natural sugars in honey can provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent option for a pre-workout snack or a natural sweetener in beverages and meals.

Honey's benefits extend beyond its nutritional profile. Its antimicrobial properties make it a natural remedy for wounds and burns, promoting healing by providing a moist environment and acting as a barrier to infection. Additionally, honey has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and coughs, thanks to its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation.

However, it's important to consume honey in moderation. While it is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large amounts. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, it's crucial to account for honey's GI and its effects on blood sugar.

Choosing raw, unprocessed honey can also maximize its health benefits. Raw honey is more likely to retain its antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can be lost during processing. Incorporating honey into your diet can be as simple as adding it to yogurt, drizzling it over oatmeal, or blending it into smoothies. Its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties make honey a superfood worth including in a healthy, balanced diet.

Ingredients

1/2 cup Progresso™ chicken stock (from 32-oz carton)
1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
3 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce or chili garlic paste
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon grated peeled fresh gingerroot
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
3 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 12 thighs)

Instructions

Spray 4- to 5-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. In slow cooker, mix stock, 1/3 cup of the hoisin sauce, the ketchup, honey, soy sauce, garlic, 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon Sriracha, the gingerroot and 2 teaspoons sesame oil with whisk. Add chicken; toss to coat. Cover; cook on High heat setting 3 to 4 hours.
During last 30 minutes of cook time, make coleslaw. In large bowl, beat rice vinegar, sugar, 2 teaspoons Sriracha and 1 teaspoon sesame oil with whisk. Add coleslaw mix; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes, tossing occasionally.
Remove chicken from slow cooker using slotted spoon. Remove sauce to another bowl. Place chicken on cutting board. Shred chicken using 2 forks, removing any bits of fat.
Return chicken and 1 1/2 cups of the sauce to slow cooker. Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons hoisin; decrease to Low heat setting. Cook about 20 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
Serve on buns; top with coleslaw. Serve with remaining sauce, if desired.

Share Slow-Cooker Asian Pulled Chicken Sandwiches