Introduction

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful teriyaki sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it requires minimal preparation time and allows the slow cooker to do all the work. The savory and slightly sweet sauce complements the chicken perfectly, making it a family favorite. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken breasts – 2 pounds
Soy sauce – ½ cup
Brown sugar – ¼ cup
Honey – 2 tablespoons
Rice vinegar – 2 tablespoons
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Ginger – 1 teaspoon, grated
Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons
Water – 2 tablespoons
Sesame seeds – for garnish
Chopped green onions – for garnish

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time – 4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low
Total Time – 4 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes
Yield – Serves 4 to 6 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and better absorption of the teriyaki sauce flavors.

Mix the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to create the teriyaki sauce.

Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken pieces in the slow cooker. Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken, ensuring that it is evenly coated.

Cook the Chicken

Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 4 to 6 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken once cooked and mix cornstarch with a little water. Stir this mixture into the remaining sauce in the slow cooker. Cook on high for an additional 15-30 minutes until thickened, then return the chicken to the pot and stir to combine.

Serve the Dish

Serve the teriyaki chicken over rice or an alternative of your choice. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

Substitutions

Feel free to substitute chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer a richer flavor or a different cut of chicken.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze the cooked teriyaki chicken. Make sure it cools completely before placing it in a freezer-friendly container. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the teriyaki chicken with steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas make excellent options.

Cook techniques

Slow Cooking

Using a slow cooker helps to tenderize the chicken while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over a long cooking period.

Marinating

Marinating the chicken before cooking infuses it with teriyaki flavors, enhancing taste and tenderness.

Thickening Sauce

Thickening the teriyaki sauce before serving adds a rich texture that clings to the chicken perfectly.

Shredding Chicken

Shredding the chicken once it’s cooked allows for better distribution of flavors and makes it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing teriyaki chicken with rice or vegetables provides a balanced and delicious meal.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but it may require additional cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

How long should I cook the chicken?

Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours, depending on your slow cooker.

Can I substitute the chicken with other proteins?

Yes, you can use pork or tofu as alternatives, but cooking times may vary.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a delicious and easy meal option, bursting with flavor and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. With minimal effort, you can enjoy tender chicken coated in a rich, savory sauce that pairs perfectly with rice or vegetables. This dish is not only satisfying but also versatile, making it a great addition to your meal rotation.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Teriyaki Chicken Bowls

Serve the teriyaki chicken over rice or quinoa, topped with steamed vegetables and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a healthy bowl meal.

Teriyaki Chicken Tacos

Use the shredded teriyaki chicken as a filling for tacos, adding fresh toppings like cilantro, avocado, and lime for a fun twist.

Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

Combine teriyaki chicken with a variety of stir-fried vegetables and your choice of noodles for a quick and flavorful dish.

Teriyaki Chicken Salad

Add the teriyaki chicken to a bed of mixed greens, along with crunchy veggies and a light dressing for a refreshing salad option.

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Thread pieces of teriyaki chicken onto skewers with bell peppers and onions, then grill or broil for a delicious appetizer or main dish.