Slow Cooker Teriyaki Pineapple Pork Chops Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, you can sear the pork chops in a hot skillet for one minute per side before adding them to the slow cooker, though this is not strictly necessary.

This extra step adds a caramelized crust that enhances the overall depth of the sauce. If you choose to do this, ensure the skillet is very hot and the oil is shimmering to get a quick sear without overcooking the center.

If you prefer a thicker sauce for serving, you can remove the pork chops once cooked and stir in a small amount of cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and cold water) into the remaining liquid.

Turn the slow cooker to high for 10-15 minutes until the sauce bubbles and thickens. This provides a professional, glossy finish that clings beautifully to the meat when plated.

Variations

• Spicy Teriyaki Pork: Add a teaspoon of red chili flakes or a tablespoon of sriracha to the teriyaki sauce before pouring it over the pork to introduce a pleasant, lingering heat that complements the pineapple.
• Ginger Teriyaki Pork: Incorporate one tablespoon of freshly grated ginger into the sauce mixture. The ginger provides a sharp, aromatic contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple and the savory depth of the teriyaki.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until the center reaches 165°F (74°C).

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Ensure the pork is cooled to room temperature within two hours of cooking before transferring it to the fridge. The sauce can be stored alongside the meat to keep it moist. When properly stored, the pork will remain safe and flavorful for up to three days.

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time by placing the pork chops and pineapple in a sealed container in the refrigerator. However, for the best results, wait to add the teriyaki sauce until you are ready to start the slow cooker. This prevents the salt in the sauce from drawing out too much moisture from the pork before the cooking process begins.

Serving ideas

Serve the pork chops warm, spooning the thickened teriyaki pineapple sauce generously over the top of each piece. This dish pairs exceptionally well with a side of steamed white or jasmine rice, which acts as a perfect vehicle for the flavorful sauce.

A side of steamed broccoli or stir-fried snap peas adds a nice crunch and color contrast to the plate, creating a well-rounded meal.

For a more casual presentation, you can shred the pork after cooking and mix it back into the sauce to create a pulled pork style dish.

This is excellent for serving over rice bowls or even in soft flour tortillas for a fusion-inspired meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds if desired for added texture and a pop of color.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Pineapple Pork Chops

Prep 5 minCook 6 hRest 3 minTotal 6 h 8 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 4 pork chops, bone-in or boneless
• 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup teriyaki sauce

Instructions

1. Place the raw pork chops into the bottom of the slow cooker basin in a single layer to ensure even cooking throughout the process.
2. Distribute the pineapple chunks evenly over the top of the pork chops. Sprinkle the garlic powder over the pineapple and meat to season thoroughly.
3. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the pork and pineapple. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours until the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Let rest 3 minutes before serving.

Contains: gluten, soy

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

28 g

Carbohydrates

22 g

Fat

12 g

Fiber

1 g

Sugar

18 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.