Name: Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts); 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice (reserve juice); 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional); 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening); Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)

This Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple with savory soy sauce and tender chicken. Simmered to perfection in a crockpot, it’s a meal that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a family-friendly dinner everyone will enjoy.

Recipe Tips and Tricks:

Brown the Chicken First: For added flavor, sear the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker.
Layering Ingredients: Place chicken on the bottom for even cooking. Add sauces and pineapple over the top.
Thicken the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, whisk in cornstarch during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Use Fresh Pineapple: While canned works, fresh pineapple elevates the flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken is the epitome of convenience and flavor. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory, it’s a dish that feels indulgent but requires minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, giving you tender, juicy chicken and a sauce that pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles. Whether you’re entertaining guests, feeding a family, or looking for an easy meal prep option, this recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s versatile, nutritious, and sure to become a household favorite.

Yield: 4 servings

Slow Cooker Pineapple Chicken

A flavorful combination of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and savory sauces, perfect for effortless weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 6 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks in juice (reserve juice)
1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional)
2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Optionally, sear it in a hot skillet with a drizzle of oil until golden on both sides.
Assemble in Slow Cooker: Place the chicken in the bottom of the crockpot. Add pineapple chunks and juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir gently to combine.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Add to the slow cooker in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Add Bell Peppers (Optional): Stir in sliced bell peppers in the final hour for added texture and color.
Serve: Serve the chicken and sauce over rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flair.

Notes

Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 375Total Fat 9gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 137mgSodium 995mgCarbohydrates 41gFiber 1gSugar 14gProtein 32g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work if you prefer leaner meat.
Pineapple: Canned pineapple chunks in juice are convenient, but fresh pineapple offers a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels.
Brown Sugar: Adds a hint of caramelized sweetness, balancing the tang of pineapple.
Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger provide an authentic, aromatic base.
Bell Peppers: Optional, but they add color and a crunchy texture if added in the last hour.

Variations and Substitutions:

Protein Swap: Replace chicken with pork shoulder or shrimp for a different twist.
Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or jackfruit, and use soy sauce alternatives like tamari.
Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
Tropical Twist: Include coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Storage Options:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Freezing: Freeze cooked pineapple chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Meal Prep: Portion into individual servings with rice or noodles for easy grab-and-go lunches.