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Irresistible Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken with Pineapple

crockpot teriyaki chicken with pineapple - featured image

A hands-off, flavorful crockpot recipe featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce with pineapple chunks, perfect for easy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 ½ cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
  • ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and pat dry the chicken thighs. Trim any excess fat or gristle.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until sugar dissolves.
  3. Place chicken thighs at the bottom of the crockpot. Pour the teriyaki sauce evenly over the chicken. Add pineapple chunks on top without stirring.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours until chicken is fork-tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  5. About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Pour into crockpot and stir gently. Replace lid and cook on high for 30 minutes to thicken sauce.
  6. Before serving, sprinkle sliced green onions and optional sesame seeds on top.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for juiciness; chicken breasts can be used but watch cooking time to avoid dryness. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Adding cornstarch slurry at the end thickens the sauce for a glossy finish. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain heat. Adjust saltiness by adding water or pineapple juice if needed. Optional additions include red pepper flakes for spice or extra veggies in the last hour.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot, teriyaki chicken, pineapple, slow cooker, easy dinner, family-friendly, sweet and savory, low-sodium, gluten-free option