HAWAIIAN HAYSTACKS SAUCE

There's something special about Hawaiian Haystacks! It's a meal that feels nostalgic, fun and satisfying all at once. Everyone gets to build their own stacks with their favorite toppings, making it perfect for busy weeknights, gatherings or when you just want a cozy, crowd pleasing dinner.

(Instagram Post)

Why we love this dish:

• Family Friendly - everyone can customize their bowl with their favorite toppings.

• Quick and easy - The sauce comes together on the stove top in just a few minutes.

• Make it work for you - Easily adapt it to be not only gluten free, but also dairy free or low carb without sacrificing flavor.

• Perfect for leftovers - Great for meal prep or next day lunches. 

Ingredients:

• Chicken -  A quick easy protein source that gives the sauce a hearty base. Rotisserie chicken adds extra flavor, while canned chicken keeps prep ultra simple.
• Cream of Chicken Soup (or powder) - Adds creaminess and body to the sauce. (code GFMACROS10)
• Water - Helps thin the sauce to the perfect consistency for spooning over rice.
• Parsley - Brings a fresh herby notes to brighten the sauce.
• Black Pepper - Balances the flavors and gives a little gentle heat. (see notes)
• Sea Salt - Enhances and ties all the flavors together, (code GFMACROS)
• Basil - Adds warmth and depth that pairs beautifully with the creamy base.
• Carrots - Add natural sweetness and a pop of color while boosting the veggie content.

Pro Tips:

• If you're using rotisserie chicken, add extra liquid to keep the sauce from becoming too thick.
• Taste and adjust seasonings before simmering, especially if using cream of chicken mix.
• For dairy free, the Clean Monday Meals Cream of Chicken Powder works great. But reduce the black pepper a lot, it can become overpowering.

Notes, Swaps and Oven Directions:

• Dairy Free - Use Clean Monday Meals Cream of Chicken powder for a creamy sauce without dairy. (code GFMACROS10)
• Lower pepper option - If using the Clean Monday Meals powder start with a little pepper and adjust at the end.
• Protein swap - Shredded turkey or cooked shredded chicken breast work well too,
• Make ahead - The sauce can be made in advance and reheated. You may need to add a splash of water when reheating to loosen the texture.

Make it a Meal:

Serve the sauce over a warm base of:

• Jasmine rice - for a classic Hawaiian Haystack Experience
• Cauliflower rice - for a lower carb and veggie packed option.
• Coconut Rice - to add more of an island feel to this classic dish.

Then pile on your favorite toppings for texture, flavor and fun:

• Chow mein noodles
• Diced tomoato
• Sliced celebery
• Diced bell pepper
• Snap peas or frozen peas
• Pineapple chunks
• Green onion
• Shredded cheese, dairy free if needed
• Toasted almonds
• Toasted coconut flakes

{Hawaiian Haystacks}

Makes 8-12 servings

3 - 14.4 oz can chicken, undrained - or sub 15oz rotisserie chicken

3 cans cream of chicken or 1 1/2 c Clean Monday Meals Cream of Chicken Powder + 3c water or milk (code GFMACROS10)

2 c water

1 1/2 Tbs parsley

1/2 Tbs pepper

2 tsp sea salt

1/2 Tbs basil

1 c carrots

DIRECTIONS:

1) In a medium saucepan, combine the cream of chicken soup and chicken. Stir well to blend.

2) Add water, parsley, pepper, salt, basil and carrots. Stir again to combine.

3) Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let simmer until the carrots are tender..

4) Serve hot over rice and let everyone top their haystacks their way! 

5) Enjoy!

If you try this recipe, leave a comment and let me know what you think! I also love seeing what you make, please tag me on Instagram! This helps me to create more for each of you!