Name: Slow Cooker Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Chops
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 4 pork chops; 1 cup pineapple chunks; 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce; 1/2 cup onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked rice or noodles for serving

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Slow Cooker Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Chops

There’s something comfortingly nostalgic about a slow cooker bubbling away with sweet-and-salty aromas, and these pineapple teriyaki pork chops bring that exact feeling to your kitchen. Tender pork, bright pineapple, and a sticky teriyaki glaze meld into a homey, weeknight-supper classic that tastes like family dinners and warm evenings. If you love easy slow-cooker meals, you might also enjoy this high-protein slow cooker garlic butter beef bites recipe for more hearty inspiration.

Why make this recipe
A short paragraph explaining what makes it special.
This recipe shines because it blends tropical sweetness from pineapple with the savory depth of teriyaki, all while the slow cooker does the hard work. The pork chops come out fork-tender without constant attention, and the simple ingredient list means you can have a flavorful meal on the table with minimal fuss. It’s the kind of recipe that turns pantry staples into something memorable.

Ingredients

4 pork chops
1 cup pineapple chunks
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
1/2 cup onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Slow Cooker Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Chops
Directions (original recipe steps)

Season pork chops with salt and pepper and place in the slow cooker.
Add pineapple chunks, teriyaki sauce, onion, and garlic over the pork chops.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve over rice or noodles.

Expanded step-by-step notes and technique

Prep the pork chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Drying the surface helps any surface browning (if you choose to sear) and ensures seasonings stick.
Optional sear for extra flavor: While the recipe works perfectly without searing, a quick 1–2 minute sear per side in a hot skillet with a tablespoon of oil will caramelize the surface and deepen the final sauce flavor. Transfer the chops to the slow cooker after searing.
Assemble the slow cooker: Place the seasoned (or seared) pork chops in a single layer in the slow cooker. Scatter the pineapple chunks and sliced onion over the top, then sprinkle minced garlic. Pour the teriyaki sauce evenly across the ingredients so everything gets coated.
Cooking times: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6–8 hours for the most tender result. If you’re short on time, high for 3–4 hours works, though the meat may be a touch firmer.
Final touches: Use tongs to transfer pork chops to a serving platter. If you like a thicker sauce, remove the pork chops and switch the slow cooker to high, then stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) and cook for 10–15 minutes until thickened. Spoon the sauce and pineapple over the chops.
Serve: Plate the chops over hot steamed rice or your favorite noodles, spooning plenty of the pineapple-teriyaki sauce and onions over top.

How long the slow cooker needs and why it matters
The long, slow cooking process breaks down connective tissue in the pork, especially if you choose slightly thicker or bone-in chops. Cooking low and slow yields the juiciest, most tender results; cooking high is fine for schedule reasons but plans for a slightly shorter time and watch for overcooking.

Keeping Slow Cooker Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Chops Fresh

Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking in an airtight container; keep at or below 40°F (4°C). Store for up to 3–4 days.
For longer storage, freeze in airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2–3 months at 0°F (-18°C).
Reheat refrigerated portions in a covered skillet over medium-low heat until thoroughly warmed (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C) or microwave in short intervals. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Chops

Classic base: Serve over steamed white or brown rice to soak up the pineapple-teriyaki sauce.
Noodle option: Toss with udon or soba noodles and some quick-steamed broccoli for a heartier, pan-Asian bowl.
Fresh contrast: Add crispness with a side of quickly pickled cucumbers or a simple cabbage slaw dressed lightly with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a pinch of sugar.
Garnishes: Sprinkle chopped scallions, toasted sesame seeds, or thinly sliced red chilies for color and texture.

Tips to make Slow Cooker Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Chops
Q: How do I keep it moist? A: Choose chops that are at least 3/4 inch thick and avoid overcooking; the slow cooker should maintain moisture with the pineapple and sauce.
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple? A: Yes — fresh pineapple adds brightness; cut into chunks similar to canned pieces.
Q: How can I thicken the sauce? A: Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into the sauce, then cook on high for 10–15 minutes.

Variations

Tropical twist (bullet): Swap half the teriyaki sauce for 1/4 cup pineapple juice and 1 tablespoon soy sauce for a tangier, fruit-forward glaze. Add diced bell pepper for color and texture.
Savory upgrade (paragraph): For a deeper umami flavor, stir in 1–2 teaspoons of hoisin sauce or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the teriyaki before cooking; you can also include sliced mushrooms in the slow cooker so they release savory juices that mingle with the pineapple and onions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use bone-in pork chops?
A: Yes — bone-in chops work well and often stay juicier. Increase low cooking time by about 30–60 minutes if needed.

What if I don’t have teriyaki sauce?
You can make a quick substitute by combining 1/3 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and a splash of sesame oil. Taste and adjust for sweetness.

How do I prevent the pineapple from breaking down completely?
- Use larger pineapple chunks and add them halfway through the cooking time if you prefer firmer pieces.
- If using canned pineapple, drained chunks tend to hold up better than crushed pineapple.

Additional cooking and serving notes
Flavor layering: The best slow-cooker meals begin with thought to layers — season the meat first, then add aromatics like onion and garlic, then the fruit and sauce. This keeps flavors distinct while allowing them to meld.

Make-ahead convenience: Assemble everything in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, place the insert in the base, set the cooker on low, and let it do the work. This is a great option for busy days or entertaining.

Dietary swaps and considerations

Lower sodium: Use a low-sodium teriyaki or make your own with reduced-sodium soy sauce. Taste before serving and adjust salt.
Gluten-free: Ensure your teriyaki sauce is labeled gluten-free or use tamari as a substitute.
Vegetarian alternative: Substitute firm tofu or seitan steaks and extend the cooking only until heated through, adding pineapple toward the end to preserve texture.

Troubleshooting common issues

Sauce too thin: Remove pork, then thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry on high for 10–15 minutes. Alternatively, reduce the sauce on the stovetop in a skillet.
Meat dry: Likely overcooked. Choose thicker chops next time and use the low setting. Adding a bit more liquid (a splash of water, stock, or pineapple juice) early in the cook can help prevent drying.
Flavor too sweet: Balance with a squeeze of lime or a splash of rice vinegar before serving to brighten and cut sweetness.

Meal planning and scaling
This recipe is easy to double for a crowd if your slow cooker can accommodate the extra volume. If scaling up, keep the same ratios and extend the cook time slightly, checking for doneness after the recommended window. For meal prep, portion into containers with rice and refrigerate up to 4 days for quick lunches.

A note on equipment
Most slow cookers vary slightly in heat levels. If your cooker runs hot, check the pork chops an hour or two before the lower end of the time window. A reliable meat thermometer helps: pork is safely cooked at 145°F (63°C) but benefits from longer time in the slow cooker to break down tougher fibers; aim for fall-apart tenderness rather than a strict target temp.

Leftovers ideas

Stir into fried rice for a quick lunch.
Chop and use as a filling for soft tacos with cabbage slaw and a squeeze of lime.
Thinly slice and pile onto an open-faced sandwich with creamy coleslaw.

Final serving checklist

Freshly steamed rice or tossed noodles? Pick one and preheat before serving.
Warm the sauce and spoon it lavishly over the pork to keep every bite saucy.
Add a bright garnish: chopped cilantro or scallions and a few sesame seeds for texture and visual appeal.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Chops recipe is a perfect marriage of convenience and flavor — a dish that feels special without demanding hours of hands-on time. For a slightly different tropical take, check the Slow Cooker Hawaiian Pork Chops – Creme De La Crumb, which emphasizes sweet pineapple and ham-style notes. If you want to compare other teriyaki-style slow cooker pork recipes and techniques, the Slow Cooker Teriyaki Pork Chops – The Magical Slow Cooker is a helpful resource with variations and tips.

Enjoy the slow-cooked comfort, and remember that a little pineapple and teriyaki can transform simple pork chops into something you’ll make again and again.