Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Recipe | Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Slow cooker teriyaki chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a luscious, sweet, and tangy sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for busy families and anyone who enjoys the simplicity of crockpot cooking. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious homemade teriyaki chicken that will impress your family and friends alike.

Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking for an easy yet flavorful meal, this slow cooker teriyaki chicken is the answer. It allows you to enjoy a taste of Asian-inspired cuisine without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work for you, ensuring that the chicken comes out perfectly tender and infused with the rich flavors of the sauce. Plus, this dish is incredibly versatile. You can serve it over rice or noodles, pair it with steamed vegetables, or enjoy it as part of a bento box!

How to Make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Making slow cooker teriyaki chicken is simple and rewarding. Follow the steps below to whip up your own version of this delightful dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated or minced
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 4 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
• Sliced green onions (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Begin by placing the chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Ensure the chicken is adequately coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
6. To thicken the sauce, combine the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the sauce in the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
7. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing it in with the sauce.
8. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds over rice or noodles.

Pro Tips for Success Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

• Use chicken thighs for more flavor and tenderness. They hold up well during long cooking times.
• Low sodium soy sauce helps control the saltiness of the dish. You can always add more soy sauce later if needed.
• Searing the chicken thighs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker can enhance the flavor, but it’s optional.
• For a thicker sauce, let it cook for a bit longer after adding the cornstarch slurry.
• Experiment with adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.

Flavor Variations Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

• Pineapple Teriyaki: Add chunks of pineapple to the slow cooker for a tropical twist.
• Spicy Teriyaki: Incorporate red pepper flakes or sriracha into the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Honey Garlic: Increase the honey and garlic for a sweeter, more robust flavor profile.
• Mango Teriyaki: Replace some of the brown sugar with mango puree for a fruity flavor.
• Citrus Teriyaki: Add some orange or lime juice into the sauce for a zesty touch.

Serving Suggestions Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Slow cooker teriyaki chicken is delicious served over a bed of steaming white rice or fluffy quinoa. You can also use it to fill soft tortillas for a fun twist on tacos. For a healthier option, serve the chicken with steamed vegetables or in lettuce wraps. Additionally, it makes a fantastic filling for sandwiches or rice bowls.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Leftover teriyaki chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you wish to freeze it, let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 345
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 640mg

FAQ About Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner meat. However, chicken thighs tend to be more moist and flavorful when cooked in a slow cooker.

Can I cook this dish on high?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can cook the teriyaki chicken on high for 3 to 4 hours. Just ensure that the chicken is fully cooked and tender before shredding.

What can I serve with teriyaki chicken?

Teriyaki chicken goes great with various sides, including steamed rice, quinoa, or vegetables. You can also serve it in wraps, or use it as a filling for sandwiches or tacos.

How can I fix a too salty sauce?

If your sauce turns out too salty, you can dilute it by adding a little water or low-sodium chicken broth. You might also add a touch of sugar or honey to balance the flavors.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. You might also opt for lentils for a hearty and protein-rich alternative.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked in the slow cooker?

The chicken is considered cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer can help ensure it’s safe to eat.

Final Thoughts

Slow cooker teriyaki chicken is not just easy to prepare; it’s also incredibly versatile and delicious. With the right ingredients and a bit of time, you can have a Japanese-inspired dish at home that rivals any restaurant. So, fire up your slow cooker and enjoy the wonderful flavors of this teriyaki chicken that everyone will love!

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

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• Total Time: 375 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Diet: None

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Description

A delightful slow cooker dish featuring tender chicken in a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce.

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Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated or minced
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 4 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
• Sliced green onions (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring the chicken is adequately coated.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
5. Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and set aside.
6. Combine cornstarch and water to create a slurry and stir this into the sauce in the slow cooker.
7. Cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
8. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing it in with the sauce.
9. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds over rice or noodles.

Notes

For a thicker sauce, cook longer after adding the cornstarch slurry. Use chicken thighs for more flavor and tenderness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 360 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Asian