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Easy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Recipe Perfect for Weeknights

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This easy slow cooker teriyaki pineapple chicken is a flavorful, tender dish perfect for busy weeknights. The sweet pineapple and savory soy glaze create a delicious balance that’s both comforting and fuss-free.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (about 150g)
  • ½ cup soy sauce (120ml), low-sodium preferred
  • ¼ cup brown sugar (50g)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (30ml)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (30ml)
  • ½ cup water (120ml)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 2 stalks green onions, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup soy sauce, ¼ cup brown sugar, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons honey, and ½ cup water until sugar dissolves and mixture is smooth.
  3. Place chicken thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer.
  4. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken evenly.
  5. Scatter 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks on top, ensuring some juice mixes into the sauce.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. About 15 minutes before serving, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water to make a slurry.
  8. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker and switch to high heat for the last 15 minutes to thicken the sauce.
  9. When done, sprinkle sliced green onions and 1 teaspoon sesame seeds over the chicken and gently stir to combine.
  10. Serve the chicken and sauce over steamed rice or alongside sautéed vegetables.

Notes

Pat chicken dry to prevent excess moisture and help sauce thicken. Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid during cooking to maintain heat. For a caramelized finish, broil chicken for 2-3 minutes after slow cooking. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness. Cornstarch slurry added near the end thickens the sauce perfectly.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, teriyaki chicken, pineapple chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meal, slow cooker recipe, chicken thighs, sweet and savory

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/easy-slow-cooker-teriyaki-pineapple-chicken-recipe-perfect-for-weeknights/