Introduction

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Asian cuisine right to your dinner table. This easy-to-make recipe leverages the slow cooker to create tender, succulent chicken bathed in a rich teriyaki sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal requires minimal preparation while delivering maximum flavor. Serve it over rice or alongside vegetables for a balanced meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

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

Prep Time

The prep time for this recipe is approximately 15 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, chopping the garlic and ginger, and preparing the sauce.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time is 4 hours on high or 6-7 hours on low in the slow cooker. The total time from start to finish, including prep and cooking, ranges from 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes, depending on your cooking method. This recipe yields about 4-6 servings, making it great for families or meal prep.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Place them in the slow cooker.

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

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

Step 3: Apply Sauce to Chicken

Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken in the slow cooker. Stir to combine with the sauce.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken after shredding and transfer the sauce to a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until it reduces to your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the teriyaki chicken over rice or vegetables, drizzling additional sauce on top as desired.

Notes

Note 1: Chicken Alternatives

You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a more tender result.

Note 2: Storage

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

Note 3: Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Note 4: Serving Suggestions

Serve with steamed broccoli, rice, or in a stir-fry for a complete meal.

Cook techniques

Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is a technique that involves cooking food at a low temperature for an extended period. This method ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully and results in tender meat.

Marinating

Marinating chicken in the teriyaki sauce allows the meat to absorb flavors deeply and enhances its juiciness. The longer you marinate, the more intense the flavor.

Thickening Sauce

To achieve a thicker teriyaki sauce, you can remove the chicken from the slow cooker towards the end of the cooking time. Then combine cornstarch with water and mix it into the sauce, cooking it until it thickens.

Shredding Chicken

Shredding the chicken after it is cooked creates a texture that allows the sauce to coat every piece, making each bite flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Teriyaki chicken can be served over rice or noodles. Garnishing with green onions or sesame seeds enhances the dish’s presentation and flavor.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken in the slow cooker?

It is not recommended to use frozen chicken in the slow cooker as it can lead to unsafe cooking temperatures.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe, but ensure your slow cooker has enough capacity to handle the increased volume.

How long can leftovers be stored in the fridge?

Leftover teriyaki chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Absolutely! You can use store-bought teriyaki sauce if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the quantity based on your taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce, which is typically made from wheat.

Conclusion

Enjoying slow cooker teriyaki chicken is not just about the meal; it’s about savoring the savory flavors and the convenience of a dish that cooks itself. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe brings together a delightful combination of tender chicken and a sweet-salty teriyaki sauce, making it a family favorite that everyone will love.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Teriyaki Chicken Bowls

Combine your teriyaki chicken with steamed rice, fresh veggies, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a wholesome meal.

Teriyaki Chicken Tacos

Use the shredded teriyaki chicken as a filling for tacos. Top with avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a unique twist.

Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

Sauté some bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas, then toss them with teriyaki chicken for a quick stir-fry meal.

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Meatballs

Try making meatballs in the same teriyaki sauce for a fun appetizer or main dish.

Teriyaki Chicken Salad

Serve the teriyaki chicken over a bed of mixed greens, cucumbers, and shredded carrots with a light dressing.

Teriyaki Chicken Pizza

Use teriyaki chicken as a topping on pizzas, combined with pineapple and mozzarella for a delicious flavor profile.

Asian Quinoa Bowl

Mix teriyaki chicken with fluffy quinoa, edamame, and shredded purple cabbage for a nutritious bowl packed with flavor.