Hawaiian Haystacks are a fun, customizable dish that combines a base of fluffy rice topped with a creamy chicken sauce and an array of fresh toppings like pineapple, tomatoes, cheese, and crunchy chow mein noodles. Often referred to as a “build-your-own” dish, everyone can create their unique haystack with their favorite mix of flavors and textures. The creamy chicken sauce, paired with sweet and savory toppings, makes Hawaiian Haystacks a perfect meal for families or gatherings, where everyone can personalize their plates to their liking. This dish is quick, easy to prepare, and adds a delightful tropical twist to your dinner table.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Sauce:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Haystacks:
- 4 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup pineapple tidbits
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds (optional)
- 1 cup chow mein noodles (for crunch)
- Soy sauce (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir in the shredded chicken and cook until the sauce is warmed through and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the Rice:
- While the sauce is heating, cook your rice according to package instructions and keep warm.
- Assemble the Haystacks:
- To serve, start with a base of cooked rice on each plate. Spoon the warm chicken sauce over the rice, then allow everyone to build their haystack with the toppings of their choice: pineapple, tomatoes, cheese, green onions, olives, coconut, almonds, and chow mein noodles.
- Serve:
- Drizzle with soy sauce if desired and enjoy!
Hawaiian Haystacks offer a delicious combination of creamy, savory, sweet, and crunchy elements, making them a fun and tasty dish for the whole family to enjoy. Whether you stick to the traditional toppings or get creative, this dish is as versatile as it is satisfying.
