This slow cooker pineapple chicken recipe is your ticket to a simple, flavorful meal with minimal effort! Just a few minutes of prep work, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious, Asian-inspired dish the whole family will love. Get ready for maximum flavor with almost no work.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken

It’s incredibly quick and easy. Just toss everything in and let the slow cooker do the work.
The flavor is amazing! Enjoy a delicious, takeout-inspired meal without leaving home.
Slow cooker pineapple chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it in bowls, wraps, over rice, or in salads.
This recipe is family-friendly. Even picky eaters will enjoy the sweet and savory flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this tasty slow cooker pineapple chicken:

2 lbs chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
1 cup teriyaki sauce
2 tbsp soy sauce
20 oz pineapple chunks, drained (1 can)
4 cloves garlic, pressed
1/4 cup green onion, chopped

For this pineapple chicken, the ingredients are super simple and accessible!

Notes & Substitutions

Chicken thighs or tenderloins can be used. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as they may cook faster.
For a thicker, more concentrated flavor, use a thicker teriyaki glaze instead of a thin sauce.
If you prefer smaller pieces of pineapple, use crushed pineapple. Drain it well before adding it to the pineapple chicken.
Both fresh and canned pineapple work well in this recipe. Canned pineapple is convenient, but fresh adds a brighter flavor.

Equipment

You only need a couple of things to make this slow cooker pineapple chicken:

Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
Basic kitchen tools: knife, cutting board, garlic press, and two forks

Instructions

Here are the simple steps for making delicious slow cooker pineapple chicken:

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
Pour the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and pressed garlic over the chicken. Make sure the chicken is nicely coated.
Add the drained pineapple chunks on top of the chicken.
Cook on high for 2.5-3 hours or on low for 3.5-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.The USDA recommends that all poultry, including chicken, reach a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C) to ensure it is cooked through and safe to eat.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce, coating it evenly.
Stir well and serve the pineapple chicken warm, garnished with chopped green onions. Enjoy!

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Keep an eye on the cooking time. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken. Check for doneness around 2.5 hours on high or 3.5 hours on low.
Use a high-quality teriyaki sauce for the best flavor. We love Kikkoman or Soy Vay.
Make sure to drain the pineapple chunks well before adding them to the slow cooker to prevent a watery sauce.
Adjust the sweetness or saltiness to your taste. Add a touch of honey for more sweetness or a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This slow cooker pineapple chicken is so easy!

Serving, Storage & Variations

How to Serve

Serve over your favorite rice! White rice, brown rice, or even fried rice all pair perfectly with pineapple chicken.
Drizzle with Asian Spicy Mayo for an extra kick.
Serve it with shredded cabbage for a fresh and crunchy contrast.
Round out the meal with side dishes like steamed green beans or crispy spring rolls.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate leftover pineapple chicken in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the pineapple chicken in an airtight container for up to one month.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.

Variations

Make Pineapple Chicken Lettuce Wraps using crisp lettuce cups and your favorite toppings.
Use the pineapple chicken as a filling for Pineapple Chicken Spring Rolls.
Add it to a Pineapple Chicken Salad with mixed greens, crunchy noodles, and a light vinaigrette.
Toss it into Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice for an extra burst of flavor.
Add sliced bell peppers or onions to the slow cooker for added color and nutrients.

Nutrition Information

These values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving (8 oz)
Calories	278 kcal
Carbohydrates	23 g
Protein	36 g
Fat	4 g
Saturated Fat	1 g
Cholesterol	97 mg
Sodium	2352 mg
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	20 g

Pineapple offers various nutritional benefits, including being rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health, as detailed by Healthline.
Learn more about the health benefits of pineapple.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen chicken for pineapple chicken? Yes, you can, but thaw it completely before adding it to the slow cooker for the best results.
How do I make the sauce thicker? Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? Absolutely! Fresh pineapple adds a brighter flavor, just be sure to cut it into chunks.
Is this recipe spicy? No, this recipe is not spicy, but you can adjust to your preference.
Can I make it spicier? Yes! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the slow cooker.

Conclusion

This slow cooker pineapple chicken recipe is a guaranteed hit. It’s incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights. Give this simple and delicious recipe a try tonight, and don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below to let us know how much you enjoyed it!