Introduction

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner, Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is an excellent choice. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a flavorful homemade teriyaki sauce, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. It’s a simple recipe that requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy days. Serve it over rice or with steamed vegetables for a wholesome meal the whole family will love.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken breasts – 2 pounds, boneless and skinless
Soy sauce – 1/2 cup
Honey – 1/4 cup
Rice vinegar – 2 tablespoons
Sesame oil – 1 tablespoon
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Ginger – 1 tablespoon, grated
Green onions – for garnish
Sesame seeds – for garnish

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time – 4 to 6 hours on low
Total Time – 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
Yield – Serves 4 to 6 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

If desired, to thicken the sauce, combine cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Stir the mixture into the remaining sauce in the slow cooker.

Step 7: Combine and Finish

Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat it with the thickened sauce. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 8: Serve

Serve the teriyaki chicken over cooked rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Type of Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for best results, as they remain tender and juicy.

Cooking Time Variations

Keep in mind that slow cooker models may vary. Check for doneness accordingly.

Storage Instructions

Leftover teriyaki chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Options

You can freeze cooked teriyaki chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with steamed broccoli, sautéed vegetables, or a simple side salad.

Cook techniques

Slow Cooking

Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. The prolonged cooking time enables the teriyaki sauce to infuse deeply into the chicken.

Marinating

Marinating the chicken in teriyaki sauce before slow cooking enhances flavor. Allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator for a more robust taste.

Thickening the Sauce

To achieve a thicker teriyaki sauce, you can remove the chicken once cooked and reduce the remaining liquid in the slow cooker by simmering it. Adding a cornstarch slurry can also help thicken the sauce quickly.

Shredding the Chicken

After cooking, use two forks to shred the chicken for easy serving. This method allows you to incorporate the sauce evenly and gives a satisfying texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the teriyaki chicken over rice or noodles, and don’t forget to garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or steamed vegetables to add color and nutrition.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, but it’s recommended to thaw the chicken first for even cooking and better flavor absorption.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use tofu, turkey, or even beef, adjusting the cooking time as necessary for each protein type.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is tender enough to shred easily.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also delivers rich, savory flavors that the whole family will enjoy. Its tender chicken and delicious sauce make it a versatile dish to pair with various sides. Perfect for meal prep or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Teriyaki Chicken Bowls

Serve the slow cooker teriyaki chicken over a bed of rice or quinoa, topped with fresh vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots for a balanced meal.

Teriyaki Chicken Tacos

Use the shredded teriyaki chicken as a filling for soft or crunchy taco shells. Add toppings like avocado, cilantro, and chopped onions for a fun twist.

Asian-style Lettuce Wraps

Scoop the teriyaki chicken mixture into crispy lettuce leaves for a light and refreshing appetizer or a low-carb option.

Teriyaki Chicken Stir-fry

Quickly sauté some bell peppers, snap peas, and onions, then add the teriyaki chicken for a satisfying stir-fry that’s perfect over noodles or rice.

Teriyaki Chicken Pizza

Spread a tortilla or pizza dough with a mix of teriyaki sauce and cream cheese, top with cooked chicken, mozzarella, and your favorite veggies for a unique pizza experience.