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Savory Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Thighs Recipe with Pineapple Made Easy

slow cooker teriyaki chicken thighs - featured image

A comforting and easy slow cooker recipe featuring tender chicken thighs cooked in savory teriyaki sauce with sweet pineapple chunks, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse and pat dry the chicken thighs. Trim excess fat if needed. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine teriyaki sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir to blend.
  3. Place chicken thighs skin-side down at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the teriyaki mixture evenly over the chicken. Add drained pineapple chunks on top.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Stir gently into the slow cooker. Replace lid and continue cooking to thicken the sauce.
  6. Just before serving, sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the chicken.
  7. Use a slotted spoon to transfer chicken to plates, spooning extra sauce and pineapple over the top. Serve with steamed jasmine rice or sautéed greens.

Notes

Season chicken before cooking for better flavor. Drain pineapple well to avoid watery sauce. Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for juiciness. Cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce; stir gently to avoid breaking chicken pieces. Optionally broil chicken for crispier skin after slow cooking. Adjust sweetness or spice by adding sriracha or chili flakes. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, teriyaki chicken, pineapple, easy dinner, chicken thighs, savory, sweet, family meal