For a quick yet satisfying dinner, this slow cooker recipe delivers all the sweet and tangy flavors you love in classic teriyaki chicken, with a tropical twist. Toss everything into the slow cooker and come home to tender, juicy chicken coated in a velvety sauce that’s sure to make the whole family smile.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions
Instructions
First, season your chicken thighs lightly with salt and pepper. Place them into your slow cooker, making sure to spread them out so the sauce can coat each piece evenly.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Stir in the pineapple chunks, then pour this flavorful mixture over the chicken.
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and fork-tender.
Once cooking is nearly done, mix the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl. Pour this slurry into the slow cooker and stir gently to thicken the sauce. Alternatively, you can remove some sauce, whisk in the cornstarch slurry, and then add it back to the slow cooker, stirring well. Let it cook for another 15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
Finally, plate your sweet and savory chicken, spoon generous amounts of sauce over each portion, and top with toasted sesame seeds or chopped green onions. Serve with steamed white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice.
This dish is ideal for anyone seeking a fuss-free dinner packed with flavor and nutrients. Chicken thighs bring a juicy bite and pair wonderfully with the tanginess of pineapple. To make it healthier, swap out sugar for a honey or low-glycemic sweetener, or use low-sodium sauces.
Feel free to add fresh vegetables—like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli—for extra color and texture. No matter how you customize it, this slow cooker recipe will become a trusty weeknight favorite.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
