Slow Cooker Chicken Tenders: Easy, Juicy, and Full of Flavor

Slow cooker chicken tenders are a simple, flavorful solution for busy weeknights. At Yumi Meals, I create recipes that bring warmth and ease to the kitchen, inspired by my lifelong love of food and family traditions. This Pineapple BBQ version is juicy, tangy, and effortless—just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or quick comfort food, these chicken tenders are all about saving time without sacrificing flavor.

Why Slow Cooker Chicken Tenders Are the Ultimate Time-Saving Meal

What Makes Chicken Tenders So Perfect for Slow Cooking

Chicken tenderloins, often referred to as chicken tenders, are incredibly well-suited for the slow cooker. They’re lean, tender, and cook evenly thanks to their uniform shape and size. Since these cuts are naturally soft, the slow cooking process doesn’t overwork them—instead, it allows them to soak up sauces, spices, and juices, turning them into the kind of meal that feels like home.

Unlike other chicken cuts that can become dry or rubbery in a slow cooker, tenderloins stay consistently moist, especially when paired with a juicy ingredient like pineapple. Their delicate structure allows them to fall apart effortlessly, making them a dream for saucy, savory dishes that are best served with forks, rolls, or fingers.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tenders: Easy, Juicy, and Full of Flavor

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• Author: Yumi
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 3 hrs
• Total Time: 3 hrs 10 mins
• Yield: 4 1x
• Category: Slowcooker
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Use the slow cooker chicken tenders, seriously juicy Slow Cooker Pineapple BBQ Chicken Tenders that are perfect for dipping or enjoying all on their own! Pair with ranch, honey mustard, or an extra helping of BBQ sauce – you can’t go wrong with this mouthwatering, flavor-packed chicken!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
• 1 tablespoon Easy Homemade BBQ Rub
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (I used Pineapple BBQ sauce)
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks

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Instructions

• Sprinkle each tenderloin with BBQ rub
• Optional: Melt butter in a skillet and lightly brown chicken tenders for 1-2 minutes on each side
• Place tenders and pineapple chunks in slow cooker
• Whisk together the BBQ sauce and pineapple juice and pour mix over chicken
• Cover and cook for 2-3 hours on high or 4-6 hours on low

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Notes

Storage – Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Seal in an airtight container and freeze (with pineapple chunks) for up to 3 months. Allow to defrost when serving again.

Best Way To Reheat Leftovers – Microwave for 30-second increments or on medium heat in a skillet on the stove just until heated through. Don’t forget your extra dipping sauces for leftovers!

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 333 kcal
• Sodium: 448mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0.03g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 49g
• Cholesterol: 145mg

The Set-It-and-Forget-It Benefits of a Slow Cooker

Let’s be honest—some nights you just don’t want to cook. his is where the slow cooker really does its thing. It’s the appliance that keeps on giving, especially when life pulls you in every direction. You simply combine your ingredients, set the timer, and walk away.

Here’s what makes this method so family-friendly and foolproof:

• No constant supervision: Put it on in the morning, and dinner’s done by evening.
• Locked-in flavor: Long, low heat draws out bold, rich taste from even the simplest ingredients.
• Fewer dishes to clean: One-pot meals make for quick cleanup.
• Flexible timing: Cook on high when you’re in a hurry, or low when you’re planning ahead.

For busy weeknights or lazy weekends, slow cooker chicken tenders provide that perfect blend of ease and taste—and they make your kitchen smell amazing in the process.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Juicy Pineapple BBQ Chicken Tenders

Chicken Tenderloins: Why This Cut Works Best

If you want soft, flavorful results without babysitting your dish, chicken tenderloins are your best friend. These small, boneless cuts come from beneath the chicken breast and are known for their delicate texture. They’re ideal for slow cooking because they don’t require long marination or pre-treatment. Their size helps them cook evenly, soak in the surrounding flavors, and remain fork-tender from start to finish.

Tenderloins are also incredibly versatile. You can buy them fresh or frozen, and they cook up beautifully either way. For this recipe, tenderloins hold their shape while absorbing the tangy BBQ and pineapple flavors, making them perfect for dipping or serving over rice.

Pineapple BBQ Sauce and Other Flavor Enhancers

The secret to this recipe’s flavor explosion is in the combination of pineapple and BBQ sauce. Together, they create the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy. Here’s what you’ll need:

You can make your own rub or grab a store-bought version, but the homemade blend allows you to control the salt and sugar levels. If you’re watching your sugar intake, opt for a no-sugar-added BBQ sauce and pineapple juice to keep the sweetness in check.

Feel free to mix things up! Craving some heat? Toss in a little chili powder or go bold with a spicy BBQ sauce. Want something more savory? Try a soy-ginger blend or a rich garlic-molasses glaze for an extra flavor kick.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Slow Cooker Chicken Tenders

Prepping Your Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

Making slow cooker chicken tenders is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to get dinner on the table. You’ll love how quickly everything comes together with very little prep. Here’s how to build layers of flavor from the start:

1. Season Your Chicken Tenders: Lay your chicken tenderloins on a plate and sprinkle generously with homemade BBQ rub. This first step is key to enhancing the flavor of your slow cooker chicken tenders before they even begin cooking.
2. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken evenly into the base of your slow cooker. Add frozen pineapple chunks in between and on top of the tenders. These juicy chunks will slowly melt down and add tropical sweetness as the chicken tenders cook in the slow cooker.
3. Whisk the Sauce: Combine pineapple juice with your favorite BBQ sauce in a small bowl. Pour the mixture directly over the chicken and pineapple to fully coat everything in flavor. This will help the slow cooker chicken tenders stay moist and tender throughout the cooking process.

Don’t miss our slow cook in rice cooker guide for another hands-off cooking method that saves time in the kitchen.

Slow Cooking Time & Temperature Options

Cooking chicken tenders in the slow cooker is all about timing and temperature. Depending on your schedule, you can cook them low and slow or take a faster route on high:

You’ll know your slow cooker chicken tenders are ready when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and shred easily with a fork.

Optional Flavor Boost: Want a richer finish? Lightly sear your seasoned chicken tenderloins in a skillet with melted butter—1–2 minutes per side—before placing them in the slow cooker. This locks in flavor and adds a caramelized edge to your already tender meat.

Before serving, spoon some of that sweet, tangy pineapple BBQ sauce from the bottom of the pot right over your slow cooker chicken tenders for extra flavor in every bite. It’s a simple move that takes your dish from good to unforgettable.

Tips to Keep Your Chicken Tenders Moist and Flavorful

The Secret to Avoiding Dry or Stringy Chicken

One of the most common concerns when making slow cooker chicken tenders is ending up with dry, tough meat. But with just a few simple tricks, you can ensure your slow cooker chicken tenders turn out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly tender every single time.

1. Choose the Right Cut for the Job
   Chicken tenderloins are naturally soft and lean, making them the ideal choice for slow cooker chicken tenders. Their small size means they cook evenly and soak up the flavors of sauces and spices, unlike thicker cuts that can remain bland or dry.
2. Watch the Cooking Time Closely
   Even though slow cookers are known for being forgiving, you can still overcook chicken tenders in a slow cooker. Stick to 4–6 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high. Any longer and the chicken can begin to shred too much, drying out in the process. For the juiciest slow cooker chicken tenders, always check the internal temperature and stop cooking at 165°F.
3. Keep Your Chicken Moist with Enough Liquid
   A great rule of thumb for slow cooker chicken tenders is to make sure they’re partially submerged in a flavorful liquid. The combo of BBQ sauce and pineapple juice in this recipe works double duty—adding bold flavor while locking in moisture. You don’t need to drown the chicken, but it should be well coated.
4. Spread Them Evenly in the Slow Cooker
   Avoid piling your slow cooker chicken tenders into a heap. Arrange them in a single layer so each piece has contact with the sauce. This helps each tender cook at the same pace, absorb more flavor, and maintain its juicy texture.

Optional Pre-Browning for Richer Texture

Want to take your slow cooker chicken tenders from great to gourmet? Give them a quick sear before slow cooking.

Here’s how:

• Add 1 tablespoon of butter or oil to a skillet and heat it over medium.
• Add your seasoned chicken tenders.
• Brown each side for just 1–2 minutes to lock in flavor.

This optional step gives the slow cooker chicken tenders a golden crust that adds a layer of richness you can’t get from slow cooking alone. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference, especially if you’re serving guests or looking to impress your family.

Check out our slow cooker scalloped potatoes recipe—an ideal creamy side dish that pairs beautifully with tangy slow cooker chicken tenders.

Whether you go with the classic dump-and-go method or take the extra step of browning, following these tips will guarantee that your slow cooker chicken tenders come out tender, moist, and packed with flavor every time.

Best BBQ Sauces and Seasoning Variations to Try

How to Choose the Best BBQ Sauce for Slow Cooker Chicken Tenders

One of the best things about making slow cooker chicken tenders is how easily they soak up bold, rich flavors—especially from a good BBQ sauce. The slow cooking process allows sauces to penetrate the meat, giving every bite a mouthwatering balance of sweetness, spice, or smoke depending on what you use.

For this Pineapple BBQ version, we used a sweet and tangy Hawaiian-style BBQ sauce, which brings citrus and tropical flavor to the front. But your options don’t stop there. The beauty of slow cooker chicken tenders is how customizable they are.

Here are a few great BBQ sauce options to experiment with:

Want more inspiration? Don’t miss our Hawaiian BBQ chicken recipe—it’s a perfect tropical pairing for this dish.

The right BBQ sauce will depend on your preference—mild and sweet for the kids, bold and spicy for adults, or even smoky if you’re craving that backyard BBQ vibe in your slow cooker.

Flavorful Seasoning Ideas for Slow Cooker Chicken Tenders

While sauces do the heavy lifting in this recipe, don’t underestimate the power of seasoning. A simple BBQ rub applied before cooking brings out even more depth in your slow cooker chicken tenders. It forms a flavor base that enhances every layer of taste during cooking.

Yumi’s Go-To Homemade BBQ Rub

You’ll love how fast this mix comes together—just a few minutes and done!

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper

Rub this directly onto your chicken tenderloins before they go into the slow cooker. It adds a slight crust and a burst of bold flavor that complements any BBQ sauce you choose.

Craving something different? Get creative with bold new flavors for your slow cooker chicken tenders. Try these seasoning swaps:

• Chipotle powder for a smoky-spicy edge
• Coconut sugar for a lower-glycemic sweetener
• Ground ginger + garlic for a Hawaiian fusion taste
• Cumin and coriander for deeper earthy notes

You can even pre-mix larger batches of this rub and store them in an airtight container—perfect for your next batch of slow cooker chicken tenders or other easy weeknight meals.

Sides That Pair Perfectly with Pineapple BBQ Chicken Tenders

Classic BBQ Sides That Complement Slow Cooker Chicken Tenders

No great chicken dinner is complete without the perfect side dish. When serving slow cooker chicken tenders, especially ones drenched in sweet pineapple BBQ sauce, the right accompaniments can turn a simple meal into a full-on feast.

Here are some classic BBQ-style sides that make ideal companions for slow cooker chicken tenders:

• Mac and Cheese – Creamy, cheesy, and comforting. The richness of the meat balances the bright, tangy sweetness of the pineapple BBQ sauce.
• Slow Cooker Cheesy Mashed Potatoes – Another slow-cooked favorite that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor.
• Sweet Hawaiian Rolls – Buttery and soft, these rolls are perfect for soaking up extra sauce or building a quick BBQ chicken slider.
• Cornbread – A slightly sweet bread that pairs wonderfully with BBQ flavors.
• Coleslaw – Its crunch and vinegar tang help cut through the richness of the chicken tenders.

Discover great ideas like our high-protein slow cooker recipes if you’re looking for hearty, balanced additions to your plate.

Whether you’re going for comfort food or a picnic-inspired plate, these options will satisfy any craving and bring balance to your slow cooker chicken tenders meal.

Tropical & Fresh Pairings for Pineapple BBQ Chicken Tenders

Want to lean into the pineapple and tropical theme? These fresh and vibrant options bring brightness and contrast to your slow cooker chicken tenders while still keeping things simple:

• Cilantro Lime Rice – A light and citrusy rice dish that enhances the tropical flavors.
• Fluffy Coconut Rice – Slightly sweet and aromatic, it’s the perfect base to soak up that juicy pineapple BBQ sauce.
• Hawaiian Macaroni Salad – Cold, creamy, and balanced with a touch of tang, this side rounds out the BBQ plate.
• Fresh Pineapple or Mango Slices – Keep things light and sweet with tropical fruits that match the dish’s flavor profile.
• Steamed Green Beans or Broccoli – Add a pop of color and crunch for a balanced plate.

If you’re keeping things low-effort but high-reward, go simple with:

• Potato chips
• French fries
• Roasted sweet potatoes

And don’t forget the dips! Serve your slow cooker chicken tenders with a mix of sauces like ranch, honey mustard, spicy sriracha mayo, or more BBQ for double the flavor.

These versatile sides make your dish shine whether it’s a family dinner, party platter, or game day feast.

Storage, Reheating, and Meal Prep Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Tenders

How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken Tenders Like a Pro

One of the best parts about making slow cooker chicken tenders is the leftovers—they’re just as good (if not better) the next day. Whether you’re prepping meals ahead or saving dinner for later, storing these juicy tenders properly helps preserve their flavor and texture.

Here’s how to store them the right way:

• In the Refrigerator: Once cooled, transfer your slow cooker chicken tenders along with some sauce and pineapple chunks to an airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge without drying out.
• In the Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your slow cooker chicken tenders in single-serving portions with sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers. They’ll last up to 3 months. Trust me—your future self will thank you for labeling and dating them now!

Keeping the sauce with the chicken during storage helps maintain that juicy, flavorful bite every time.

The Right Way to Reheat Slow Cooker Chicken Tenders

Reheating slow cooker chicken tenders is easy—but reheating them well is the difference between a dry disappointment and a delicious second round.

Here are the best methods:

• Microwave: Place chicken and a spoonful of sauce in a covered microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second bursts until warmed through. This method is best for small portions.
• To Reheat on the Stovetop: Add chicken and sauce to a nonstick skillet with a bit of pineapple juice or water for moisture. Cover and reheat over medium-low, stirring occasionally.
• Oven: Wrap tenders in foil with extra sauce and reheat at 325°F for 10–15 minutes. This method works great for larger batches.

Whichever method you choose, always reheat with the sauce—this keeps your slow cooker chicken tenders juicy and prevents them from drying out.

Looking for inspiration? Try our summer slow cooker recipes for delicious ideas using leftover chicken.

Make-Ahead Tips for Busy Weeks

Planning meals ahead? Ideal for weekly meal prep, these slow cooker chicken tenders are both convenient and flavorful. You can assemble everything the night before, then just plug in your slow cooker in the morning and let it work its magic.

How to prep ahead:

1. Season the chicken with your BBQ rub.
2. Toss the chicken and pineapple chunks into a sealed bag or container for easy storage.
3. Mix your BBQ sauce and pineapple juice in a separate container.
4. Refrigerate overnight.
5. In the morning, dump everything into the slow cooker and cook as usual.

This method lets you skip the morning prep rush and still come home to tender, flavorful slow cooker chicken tenders ready to serve.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping lunches, or planning stress-free dinners, this recipe is flexible, forgiving, and freezer-friendly. It’s one more reason to keep these slow cooker chicken tenders in your weekly rotation.

Alternative Cooking Methods for Chicken Tenders

Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders with BBQ & Pineapple Flavor

While slow cooker chicken tenders are ultra-convenient, sometimes you need dinner on the table fast. That’s where the oven comes in. If you’ve got less than an hour, you can still enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken tenders baked to perfection.

Here’s how to adapt the recipe for your oven:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Season the chicken tenderloins with your BBQ rub.
3. Place them on a lightly greased baking dish or sheet pan.
4. Cook uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. In the last 5 minutes, brush with a mixture of BBQ sauce and pineapple juice and return to the oven to caramelize.

This method is great when you want similar flavors to slow cooker chicken tenders but don’t have hours to spare. The outside gets slightly crisp while the inside stays juicy, especially when basted with that tangy-sweet sauce.

Want an extra burst of flavor? Serve with fresh pineapple slices or a drizzle of extra sauce right before serving.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: Fast & Flavorful

If you’re craving crispy texture and bold flavor without turning on the oven or waiting hours, the air fryer is your new best friend. You can enjoy a faster take on slow cooker chicken tenders with a crispy edge in under 20 minutes.

Here’s how to prepare pineapple BBQ chicken tenders in the air fryer:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat chicken dry and season with your BBQ rub.
3. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.
4. Air fry in a single layer for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Toss with BBQ-pineapple sauce before serving or use it as a dip.

Expect a golden, caramelized surface with tender, juicy chicken in every bite. While it’s not quite the same as the soft, sauce-soaked texture from the slow cooker, it’s a tasty alternative when you need to serve quickly and still want that bold BBQ flavor.

When to Choose Each Method

Each method brings out something a little different—but they all work beautifully with the core ingredients of this recipe. And no matter which one you choose, the combination of tender chicken, pineapple, and BBQ sauce is always a win.

Conclusion: Make Slow Cooker Chicken Tenders Your Go-To Weeknight Dinner

If you’re looking for a no-fuss, flavor-packed meal that checks all the boxes—easy, juicy, family-friendly, and freezer-ready—slow cooker chicken tenders are your answer. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy a dinner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen (but didn’t).

Whether you go with the tropical twist of pineapple BBQ or mix it up with different sauces and seasonings, this recipe offers endless possibilities. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or serving a crowd.

From slow cooker to oven to air fryer, chicken tenders are as versatile as they are delicious. And now that you know exactly how to store, reheat, and pair them with the right sides, you’ve got everything you need to make this recipe a staple in your kitchen.

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Don’t miss our summer slow cooker recipes for more warm-weather dishes your whole family will love.

Pineapple BBQ Chicken Tenders FAQs Answered

Yumi

Welcome to Yumi Meals!
I’m Yumi, and this space is a heartfelt extension of my lifelong love for cooking. What began in my grandmother’s kitchen has become a journey of sharing soulful, approachable recipes that celebrate connection, tradition, and creativity. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, I hope Yumi Meals brings warmth and inspiration to your table.