Quick and Easy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, savory-sweet teriyaki sauce. This recipe is not only easy to make but also offers a comforting meal for busy days when you need a hearty dinner with minimal effort. With the hands-off convenience of a slow cooker, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to create a delicious, restaurant-style meal at home.

Why Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a Must-Try

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken brings the best of both worlds: the delicious flavors of a homemade teriyaki sauce paired with the convenience of a slow cooker. The tender chicken absorbs the flavors of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and honey, creating a rich and complex dish. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly meal or a stress-free dinner option, this recipe fits the bill. The best part? It’s incredibly customizable, allowing you to add vegetables or adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the steps, let’s take a look at the key ingredients you’ll need to make this easy yet flavorful dish:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: The base of the recipe. You can use either, depending on your preference for texture. Chicken thighs will be juicier, while chicken breasts are leaner.

• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds that bold, aromatic flavor.

• Ginger: Minced ginger brings a zesty, peppery warmth that balances the sweetness of the sauce.

• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt content.

• Honey: Adds sweetness and helps balance the savory flavors.

• Brown Sugar: Enhances the overall depth of sweetness and adds a subtle molasses flavor.

• Sesame Oil: Gives the dish a lovely, toasty aroma.

• Rice Vinegar: Provides a slight acidity to round out the sauce’s flavor profile.

• Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce and give it that perfect glossy finish.

• Sesame Seeds & Green Onions: For garnish, adding a bit of texture and a pop of color.

How to Make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

The process of making slow cooker teriyaki chicken is straightforward and requires very little hands-on time. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a satisfying meal ready to serve in no time:

1. Prepare the Chicken
   Begin by placing your chicken breasts (or thighs) directly into the slow cooker. You don’t need to brown the chicken beforehand. Simply arrange the chicken so it cooks evenly.

2. Make the Teriyaki Sauce
   In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, minced ginger, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Whisk together until well combined. This mixture forms the heart of the teriyaki sauce.

3. Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken
   Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated.

4. Cook the Chicken
   Cover the slow cooker and cook the chicken on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-7 hours. The cooking time may vary based on the size of your chicken breasts or thighs, so check for doneness. The chicken should shred easily with a fork when it’s ready.

5. Shred the Chicken
   Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. It should be very tender and easy to pull apart.

6. Thicken the Sauce
   Pour the remaining sauce from the slow cooker through a strainer into a saucepan to remove any solids. Place the saucepan on the stove over medium-high heat and bring the sauce to a simmer.

7. Add Cornstarch
   In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a bit of cold water until dissolved. Add this mixture to the simmering sauce and stir well. Allow the sauce to cook for 1-2 minutes or until it thickens to your desired consistency.

8. Combine the Chicken and Sauce
   Once the sauce has thickened, pour it over the shredded chicken and toss well to coat. You can add a bit more sauce if you like it extra saucy.

9. Garnish and Serve
   Transfer the chicken to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve the teriyaki chicken over steamed rice for a complete meal.

Customizing Your Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

One of the best things about slow cooker teriyaki chicken is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Add Vegetables
  For a more wholesome meal, consider adding vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers. However, make sure to add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft or mushy.

• Adjust the Sweetness
  If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of honey or brown sugar. Conversely, if you love a sweeter teriyaki sauce, add a little more honey or sugar to taste.

• Use Chicken Thighs
  While chicken breasts are a common choice, chicken thighs are another great option. They have more fat, making them more tender and flavorful, especially when cooked slowly.

• Make It Spicy
  If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce to the teriyaki sauce for a spicy kick.

• Serve with Noodles
  Instead of rice, try serving your teriyaki chicken over soba noodles or udon for a different texture and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

To ensure your slow cooker teriyaki chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Avoid Overcooking the Chicken
  While the slow cooker makes it easy to leave your chicken unattended, it’s important not to overcook it. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Set a timer for the recommended cooking time and check the chicken’s tenderness.

• Use Low-Sodium Soy Sauce
  Teriyaki sauce can be quite salty, so using low-sodium soy sauce will help control the overall salt content of the dish, making it a healthier option.

• Shred the Chicken While Hot
  Shredding the chicken immediately after removing it from the slow cooker will result in the most tender texture. If the chicken cools down too much, it may become harder to shred.

Nutritional Information

To give you an idea of the nutritional breakdown, here’s an approximate estimate for one serving of slow cooker teriyaki chicken (based on 6 servings):

Why Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a Family Favorite

If you’re in search of a meal that the whole family will enjoy without a lot of fuss, Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is your go-to option. The combination of tender, juicy chicken and rich, homemade teriyaki sauce is a recipe that appeals to both adults and kids alike. This dish has a balance of sweet and savory flavors that make it incredibly satisfying, and it’s easy to prepare, especially when using a slow cooker.

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken also has the advantage of being highly customizable. You can adjust the sauce’s sweetness, spice level, or even toss in some vegetables to make it a one-pot meal. It’s an incredibly versatile recipe that adapts to your family’s tastes, and the leftovers (if there are any!) make for a delicious lunch the next day.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken Every Time

To ensure your Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is always cooked to perfection, here are some essential tips to follow:

1. Choose the Right Chicken Cuts
   While chicken breasts are a popular choice, chicken thighs tend to be more forgiving in the slow cooker, remaining tender and juicy. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work well, but just be cautious not to overcook them.

2. Layer the Ingredients Properly
   When adding ingredients to your slow cooker, start with the chicken at the bottom, followed by the teriyaki sauce mixture. This ensures that the chicken absorbs all the flavors from the sauce as it cooks. Avoid stirring it around too much at the start, as this can prevent the sauce from evenly coating the chicken.

3. Don’t Skip the Cornstarch Slurry
   The cornstarch slurry is what gives the sauce its glossy, thick texture. After straining the sauce, bring it to a simmer and then add the cornstarch-water mixture to thicken it up. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect restaurant-quality sauce that clings to the chicken beautifully.

4. Monitor Cooking Time
   Slow cookers vary, and the cooking time can depend on the size of the chicken breasts or thighs. It’s essential to keep an eye on the chicken to prevent it from overcooking. You can check its doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken or using a meat thermometer (165°F or 74°C is the safe internal temperature for chicken).

5. Freshly Shred the Chicken
   Shredding the chicken while it’s hot ensures the texture stays tender. Use two forks to easily pull apart the chicken, making sure it’s coated in the sauce before serving.

6. Garnish for Extra Flavor
   Don’t forget to garnish the dish with sesame seeds and fresh green onions. Not only do these add a bit of crunch and color, but they also enhance the flavor, adding a touch of nuttiness and freshness that balances the richness of the teriyaki sauce.

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Variations

One of the best things about Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is its ability to be modified based on your taste preferences. Here are some creative variations to keep things exciting:

• Vegetable Additions: If you want to make the dish more nutritious, add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots. Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to ensure they don’t become too soft. Alternatively, you can stir-fry them separately and serve them alongside the chicken.

• Spicy Teriyaki Chicken: For those who love a bit of heat, consider adding a tablespoon of sriracha sauce, red pepper flakes, or even a minced jalapeño pepper to the sauce mixture. This will give your teriyaki chicken a spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the honey and brown sugar.

• Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken: Add pineapple chunks to the slow cooker for a sweet, tropical twist. The pineapple will infuse the sauce with a natural sweetness and enhance the dish’s flavor complexity.

• Use Other Meats: While chicken is the star of this dish, you can easily switch it out for pork, beef, or even tofu if you prefer a vegetarian option. Pork tenderloin or beef sirloin steak can be substituted for chicken, and tofu can be pressed and cubed before being added to the sauce.

• Rice Options: While traditional white rice is the most common pairing, you can also serve your teriyaki chicken with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb or more nutritious option.

Serving Ideas and Pairings

The beauty of Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is that it can be paired with a variety of sides to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas to make your dinner even more delightful:

• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy are excellent vegetables to serve alongside the teriyaki chicken. Their mild flavors complement the richness of the sauce, and they add an extra boost of nutrients.

• Noodles: For a different twist, try serving your teriyaki chicken over soba noodles, rice noodles, or even udon for a hearty, Asian-inspired meal.

• Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great way to balance the richness of the teriyaki chicken. Try a simple cucumber and avocado salad or a tangy Asian slaw.

• Crispy Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls: If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, pair your slow cooker teriyaki chicken with crispy egg rolls or fresh spring rolls for a delightful contrast of textures.

• Pickled Vegetables: To cut through the richness of the sauce, serve your teriyaki chicken with pickled vegetables, like quick-pickled cucumbers or radishes. The acidity helps cleanse the palate.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers, storing and reheating Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a breeze:

• Storage: Place the chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep any leftover sauce in a separate container to prevent the chicken from becoming soggy.

• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce. Transfer the chicken into a freezer-safe container, and store the sauce in a separate container. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

• Reheating: When reheating, you can use the microwave or stovetop. If reheating on the stovetop, add a little water or chicken broth to prevent the chicken from drying out. Stir in the leftover sauce for added flavor.

FAQs On Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

1. How to cook teriyaki chicken in the slow cooker?

To cook teriyaki chicken in a slow cooker, simply add boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs to the slow cooker. In a separate bowl, mix together the teriyaki sauce ingredients (like soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and rice vinegar). Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, shred it with two forks and toss it with the sauce to absorb the flavor before serving.

2. How to thicken teriyaki sauce in a slow cooker?

To thicken the teriyaki sauce in a slow cooker, remove the chicken and sauce from the slow cooker and transfer it to a saucepan. Mix cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the sauce over medium heat and simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Once thickened, pour it back over the shredded chicken, toss to coat, and serve.

3. What cut of chicken is best for the slow cooker?

For the best results in a slow cooker, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are often recommended. Thighs are more flavorful and tend to stay tender and juicy during long cooking times. However, you can also use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. Chicken thighs have a slightly higher fat content, which helps them retain moisture and prevents them from drying out in the slow cooker.

4. Can I use frozen chicken in the slow cooker for teriyaki chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the slow cooker for teriyaki chicken, but it’s important to note that cooking frozen chicken might increase the cooking time. To ensure the chicken cooks thoroughly and reaches a safe temperature of 165°F (75°C), it is recommended to cook on the low setting for 8-9 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. Always check the internal temperature before serving.

5. Can I add vegetables to slow cooker teriyaki chicken?

Yes, adding vegetables to your slow cooker teriyaki chicken is a great idea! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, onions, or snap peas in the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep them crisp and colorful. Alternatively, you can add them at the beginning if you prefer them to be softer and fully infused with the teriyaki sauce flavor.

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 2 teaspoons minced garlic

• 2 teaspoons minced ginger

• 1/4 cup honey

• 3 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

• 1/4 cup cold water

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

• 2 tablespoons sliced green onions

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker.

2. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, ginger, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.

3. Cook: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.

4. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or LOW for 6-7 hours.

5. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred using two forks.

6. Thicken the Sauce: Strain the sauce into a saucepan. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch and cold water to form a slurry. Add this to the sauce, simmering over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes until thickened.

7. Serve: Pour the thickened sauce over the shredded chicken, tossing to coat. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

8. Enjoy: Serve the teriyaki chicken over steamed rice or your favorite side.

Notes

• Chicken: For a richer flavor, use chicken thighs. However, chicken breasts work just as well if you prefer leaner meat.

• Vegetables: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas in the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra flavor and texture.

• Frozen Chicken: If using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time. Cook on low for 8-9 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 227 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 22g

• Protein: 25g

• Fat: 3g

• Cholesterol: 72mg

• Sodium: 542mg

• Potassium: 479mg

• Sugar: 17g

• Vitamin A: 35 IU

• Vitamin C: 1.7 mg

• Calcium: 29 mg

• Iron: 1.2 mg

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 3-4 hours (HIGH) or 6-7 hours (LOW)

Total Time: 3-4 hours 10 minutes

Method: Slow Cooker

Cuisine: Asian