Name: Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 185 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken breast (boneless, skinless); 1 cup teriyaki sauce; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 20 oz pineapple chunks (drained (1 can)); 4 cloves garlic (pressed); 1/4 cup green onion (chopped)

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There’s something magical about the way the flavors meld together in Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken. When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was searching for a dish that could effortlessly impress my family without spending hours in the kitchen. The thought of tender, juicy chicken, infused with sweet and tangy pineapple, made my mouth water just imagining it. This dish quickly became a favorite in my home. I remember the first time I served it; my kids were instantly hooked, and my husband couldn’t stop raving about it. The ease of throwing everything into the slow cooker, knowing it would turn out flavorful and satisfying, made me fall in love with it. With a busy schedule, this dish perfectly fits into my meal planning, allowing me to enjoy time with my family while dinner cooks itself. Whether it’s a cozy family night or a casual gathering with friends, Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken brings everyone together over a delicious meal.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
3 hr 5 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
180 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
360 kcal

Protein:
32 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Slow Cooker

The Charm of This Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken

Effortless Cooking

One of the best things about Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken is how simple it is to prepare. You can just toss all the ingredients in your slow cooker, set it, and forget it. This means you can spend more time doing what you love and less time worrying in the kitchen.

Sweet and Savory Harmony

The combination of teriyaki sauce and pineapple creates a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. The chicken absorbs these fantastic flavors as it cooks, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with taste.

Family-Friendly

This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike. Its mild flavors make it accessible for even the pickiest eaters. You can serve it over rice or with a side of veggies, making it a versatile meal that everyone can enjoy.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re a fan of meal prepping, Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken is an excellent choice. Make a big batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have delicious leftovers for days. It reheats beautifully and stays moist and flavorful.

Great for Gatherings

Hosting friends over? This dish is perfect for casual get-togethers. Serve it in a big bowl with some fresh green onions on top, and watch your guests dig in eagerly. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

What You’ll Need for Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken

To create the perfect Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken, you’ll need a blend of fresh ingredients that work together in harmony. The key players in this dish include juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and savory sauces that enhance the overall flavor profile. These ingredients not only complement each other but also create a delightful aroma that will fill your kitchen as it cooks.

2 lbs of chicken breast, boneless, skinless: The star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy base.
1 cup of teriyaki sauce: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the chicken.
2 tbsp of soy sauce: Enhances the umami flavors in the dish.
20 oz of pineapple chunks, drained: Provides a refreshing sweetness that balances the savory components.
4 cloves of garlic, pressed: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
1/4 cup of green onion, chopped: Adds a pop of color and freshness when serving.

How to Prepare Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken

Preparing Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken is a breeze, making it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights. Follow these easy steps for a delicious meal that practically cooks itself.

Start by placing the chicken breasts directly into the slow cooker. Ensure they are spread out evenly so that they cook uniformly. The beauty of using a slow cooker is that it locks in the moisture, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
Next, pour the teriyaki sauce and soy sauce over the chicken. The combination of these sauces will create a delicious marinade that seeps into the meat, giving it fantastic flavor.
Add the pressed garlic to the slow cooker. This aromatic ingredient elevates the dish, bringing a warm and inviting scent as it cooks.
Now it’s time to top off the mixture with the pineapple chunks. Make sure they’re evenly distributed over the chicken for the best flavor infusion. The pineapple will caramelize slightly, adding an irresistible sweetness.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on high for about 2.5 to 3 hours or on low for 3.5 to 4 hours. It’s fantastic how the slow cooking process breaks down the proteins in the chicken, making it fork-tender and flavorful.
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken. It should pull apart easily, thanks to the slow cooking.
After shredding, return the chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce and pineapple chunks. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
To serve, scoop the Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken onto plates and top it with the chopped green onions. This adds a fresh touch and a pop of color to your dish.
Enjoy your meal warm, perhaps over a bed of rice or alongside your favorite vegetables. The combination of sweetness and savory flavors will leave you craving more!

Things Worth Knowing

Slow cooking allows for deeper flavor development as the ingredients mingle and infuse over time.
Using boneless, skinless chicken makes it easier to shred and eliminates excess fat.
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and color.
Monitor the cooking time to avoid overcooking, which can lead to dry chicken.

Tips for Success

For a foolproof cooking experience, keep these tips in mind as you prepare your Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe bags and enjoy it later.
Pairing: Serve with jasmine rice or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Adjusting sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of pineapple or use less teriyaki sauce.
Meal prep: This dish is perfect for meal prepping; make it on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week.

What to Pair With Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken

Finding the right accompaniments for your Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some suggestions that complement the dish beautifully:

Jasmine Rice: A fluffy side of jasmine rice absorbs the delicious sauce and enhances the overall flavor.
Steamed Vegetables: Pair it with steamed broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for a healthy balance.
Salad: A refreshing salad with greens and a light vinaigrette can contrast the warm, savory chicken.
Fried Rice: Leftover rice turned into fried rice can make a delightful side, mixing in additional flavors.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a tangy balance to the sweet and savory elements of the dish.
Perfect for gatherings: This dish is great for potlucks or family gatherings, making it a staple for entertaining.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken. However, make sure to extend the cooking time as frozen chicken takes longer to cook through. It’s best to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Pair Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken with fluffy jasmine rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. These sides balance out the flavors and provide a complete meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken. These will add color, flavor, and nutrition to the dish. Just toss them in the slow cooker with the other ingredients.

Store any leftovers of Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions in freezer-safe bags for later meals.

Conclusion

The unique combination of sweet and savory flavors makes Crock Pot Pineapple Chicken a delightful meal choice for any occasion. I encourage you to give this easy yet satisfying recipe a try. With its effortless preparation and delicious outcome, it’s sure to become a staple in your home.