After a long day, when dinner feels like an uphill battle, I often find myself reaching for my trusty slow cooker. One evening, with a rumble in my stomach and minimal energy left, I turned to the flavors of Asia to whip up a dish that never fails to delight—Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki. The sweet and savory aroma of this delectable meal bubbling away instantly transforms my kitchen into a cozy haven.
This recipe seamlessly blends tender chicken with a rich teriyaki sauce that sings with depth, providing a comforting escape from the hustle of everyday life. What makes it even better? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Perfect for busy folks like us, it’s a go-to solution for weeknight dinners that even kids will cheer for—and trust me, the leftovers are just as delicious. Let’s dive into this culinary journey of flavor and simplicity that will quickly become a beloved staple in your home!
Why is Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki a must-try?
Convenience: Effortlessly throw ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you attend to the rest of your day.
Delicious Depth: The sweet-savory blend of teriyaki sauce elevates your chicken, creating a comforting dish that’s hard to resist.
Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this dish, making it perfect for dinner with family or friends.
Meal Prep Hero: Easily doubles for meal prepping—leftovers taste just as fantastic the next day!
Customizable: Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite veggies or experimenting with different proteins like tofu.
This slow cooker chicken teriyaki is sure to become a quick favorite in your culinary repertoire, delighting every palate at your table!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Choose thighs for juiciness and a more flavorful dish.
For the Sauce
• Brown Sugar – Adds the perfect sweetness and caramelization; honey can be used instead for a different twist.
• Reduced Sodium Soy Sauce – This is your base flavoring agent; tamari serves as a fantastic gluten-free alternative.
• Water – Keeps the sauce at the right consistency, making sure every piece of chicken is well coated.
• Rice Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds necessary acidity to brighten up the flavors; lemon juice works in a pinch!
• Garlic (minced) – Brings aromatic warmth and a kick; fresh is always best, but garlic powder is fine if needed.
• Fresh Grated Ginger or Ground Ginger – Imbues the dish with warmth; if using ground, reduce the amount by half.
• Sesame Oil – Adds a unique nutty flavor that enhances the overall dish; other oils can substitute, but they won’t replicate the same depth.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Introduces a desired level of heat; adjust to your own taste preference!
For Thickening
• Slurry (Water + Corn Starch) – Essential for achieving that rich, glossy teriyaki sauce texture.
For Topping
• Toppings (Sesame Seeds, Green Onions) – Enhances the presentation and adds a delightful crunch to your dish.
This slow cooker chicken teriyaki is sure to win hearts and impress your guests!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki
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Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, reduced sodium soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
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Prep the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
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Cook: Set the slow cooker on HIGH for 4-5 hours or LOW for 6-8 hours. The chicken should be fork-tender when ready.
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Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces, then set aside.
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Thicken the Sauce: Pour the remaining sauce into a pot on the stove. Bring it to a boil over medium heat.
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Create the Slurry: In a separate bowl, mix water and cornstarch to create a slurry. Gradually whisk it into the boiling sauce, stirring until thickened (about 2-3 minutes).
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Combine: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix well with the thickened sauce.
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Serve: Dish up the chicken over steamed rice. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Optional: Drizzle a little extra sesame oil right before serving for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful outcome that your family will love.
- Sauce Timing: Don’t rush the thickening process—allow the sauce to fully boil after adding the slurry for optimal richness.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and tenderness.
- Avoid Overcooking: Monitor cooking times carefully; overcooking can lead to dry chicken. Stick to the recommended times for perfect results.
- Customize Wisely: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables during the last hour of cooking—just don’t crowd the slow cooker for the best texture!
These helpful tips will make your slow cooker chicken teriyaki a hit at every dinner table!
Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your dish to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for cubed tofu or tempeh, absorbing the same lovely teriyaki flavors for a delicious veggie alternative.
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Veggie Boost: Add colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last hour for a nutrient-rich meal that makes every bite pop.
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Sweet Chili Twist: For a unique flavor kick, substitute half of the reduced sodium soy sauce with sweet chili sauce, creating a zesty and delightful blend.
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Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium soy sauce and add a splash of extra rice vinegar to keep the flavors vibrant while cutting back on sodium.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the heat level by adding sliced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes to ignite your dish and tantalize your taste buds.
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Pineapple Surprise: Add fresh pineapple chunks during the last hour of cooking for a sweet, tropical twist that balances the savory notes perfectly.
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Rice Substitute: Serve over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or brown rice to mix things up while keeping the meal wholesome and hearty.
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Asian Fusion: Experiment with adding hoisin sauce alongside the teriyaki for more depth, making each bite an exciting flavor adventure.
Whatever you choose, these variations will enhance your slow cooker chicken teriyaki experience and keep dinner exciting!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki?
Imagine a meal that not only satisfies hunger but also delights the senses—this can be yours with the right accompaniments.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice perfectly absorbs the sticky teriyaki sauce, enhancing each bite. A classic pairing that never disappoints.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas add a fresh crunch, providing a lovely contrast to the tender chicken. You’ll feel good knowing you’re adding nutrition to your meal.
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Sesame Noodles: These are a fun and flavorful alternative to rice, adding a delightful chewiness that complements the chicken’s sauce beautifully. They can be dressed in a light soy sauce to keep everything cohesive.
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Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar brings a bright acidity that balances the richness of the teriyaki sauce. It’s a crisp, cool side that everyone will love.
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Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with crisp veggies add texture and a bit of crunch, making for a delightful appetizer or side. They hold up well against the bold flavors of the teriyaki chicken.
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Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices provide a rich, buttery element that pairs beautifully with the dish. It adds a luxurious touch that makes each bite even more satisfying.
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Iced Green Tea: A cool, refreshing iced green tea complements the warm, savory flavors of the chicken while adding a touch of elegance to your dinner table. It’s a soothing drink that enhances the overall dining experience.
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Mango Sorbet: For dessert, a light mango sorbet makes a sweet ending to your meal. The fruity, tropical flavor cleanses the palate and leaves everyone feeling refreshed.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps maintain the tenderness of the chicken and the flavor of the teriyaki sauce.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of the slow cooker chicken teriyaki in freezer-safe bags or containers, where it can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prepping; simply portion out servings and refrigerate or freeze for quick, delicious dinners anytime.
Make Ahead Options
Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki is a fantastic choice for meal prep fans! You can “prep in advance” and marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator, ensuring it absorbs all those rich flavors. You can also chop and measure your garlic, ginger, and other ingredients a few days before cooking, storing them in airtight containers. When you’re ready to cook, simply place the marinated chicken into the slow cooker, add any pre-chopped ingredients, and set it to cook. This makes for a quick, easy dinner without sacrificing flavor, leaving you with a delightful meal that’s just as delicious later!
Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki?
Using boneless skinless chicken thighs is my top recommendation for this recipe! They provide more juiciness and flavor compared to chicken breasts, ensuring a succulent, tender meal that everyone will enjoy.
How long can I store Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki in the fridge?
Absolutely! You can store leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps keep both the chicken tender and the flavor vibrant, making it ideal for quick meals on busy days.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki?
Yes, you can! To freeze, portion out the dish in freezer-safe bags or containers. It will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat using the microwave or on the stovetop with a little added water to loosen the sauce.
What can I add to the Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki?
The more, the merrier! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas, during the last hour of cooking. This boosts nutritional value and adds color, enhancing the overall appeal of the dish.
How do I thicken the sauce properly?
To achieve the perfect sauce consistency, be sure to create a slurry by mixing water with cornstarch. After boiling the remaining sauce on the stove, slowly whisk in the slurry and keep stirring for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens beautifully. This will give your teriyaki sauce that rich and glossy texture.
Is Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki gluten-free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-conscious by substituting the reduced sodium soy sauce with tamari, which is a gluten-free alternative. Just ensure that all your other ingredients, like the rice vinegar, are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
These Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki FAQs should guide you in preparing and enjoying this delightful recipe!
Savory Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki for Effortless Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, reduced sodium soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring it's well coated.
- Set the slow cooker on HIGH for 4-5 hours or LOW for 6-8 hours. The chicken should be fork-tender when ready.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces, then set aside.
- Pour the remaining sauce into a pot on the stove. Bring it to a boil over medium heat.
- In a separate bowl, mix water and cornstarch to create a slurry. Gradually whisk it into the boiling sauce, stirring until thickened (about 2-3 minutes).
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix well with the thickened sauce.
- Dish up the chicken over steamed rice. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and red pepper flakes if desired.
