Easy Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken: A Delicious & Effortless Chicken Recipe 🍗🍍✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a meal that combines sweet and savory flavors with minimal effort, look no further than this crockpot teriyaki chicken recipe. Known for its tender texture and flavorful glaze, this dump and go crockpot teriyaki chicken is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Using simple ingredients and your slow cooker, you can create a delicious dish that the whole family will love.
2. Ingredients for Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar for sweetness
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (for slurry if thickening)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Enjoy the effortless process of making slow cooker teriyaki chicken with just a few pantry staples. For more delicious chicken recipes, check out this creamy garlic parmesan crockpot chicken and potatoes.
3. Step-by-step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken and Sauce
Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken.
Cook the Chicken
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you’d like a thicker sauce, remove the cooked chicken and set aside. Mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then add it to the crockpot. Turn the cooker to high and cook for an additional 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Serve
Shred the chicken if desired and pour the thickened teriyaki sauce over it. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve over steamed rice or your favorite grain.
4. Storage Tips for Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Leftover crockpot teriyaki chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly in a microwave or on the stovetop. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months.
5. Serving Ideas and Variations
For a complete meal, serve this crockpot teriyaki chicken with steamed vegetables such as broccoli or snap peas. You can also try it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. For a protein-packed twist, add some diced pineapple during the last hour of cooking for extra sweetness.
6. FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly and tend to stay juicier and more flavorful in the slow cooker.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for busy weekdays.
What are some healthy substitutions I can make?
Use low-sodium soy sauce and honey or stevia for a lower sugar and sodium version. Check out this low-carb chicken casserole for more healthy chicken options.
How long does it take to prepare?
The prep time is minimal—just mix the sauce ingredients and place the chicken in the slow cooker. Total cooking time is approximately 4-6 hours on low.
7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: This spacious slow cooker ensures even cooking and makes prep easy, perfect for this crockpot teriyaki chicken recipe.
- EUHOMY Portable Rapid Ice Maker: Keep beverages cold while enjoying your meal—ideal for summer dinners.
Investing in quality kitchen tools like a reliable slow cooker can elevate your culinary experience. For more versatile appliances, explore this KitchenAid Stand Mixer which helps with mixing sauces and marinades.
8. Tips and Tricks for Perfect Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
- Use lean chicken to keep the meal light.
- If using chicken thighs, cook a little longer to ensure tenderness.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during the last 30 minutes for a complete dish.
- Adjust sweetness or saltiness by altering honey or soy sauce to taste.
9. Conclusion
This crockpot teriyaki chicken recipe is a testament to how effortless cooking can be without sacrificing flavor. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, you can enjoy a juicy, flavorful chicken dish that pairs well with rice, vegetables, or noodles. Whether you’re meal prepping or craving a quick dinner, this slow cooker teriyaki chicken is sure to become a household favorite. Try it today and experience the convenience of an effortless chicken recipe that delights every time!
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Easy Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
A simple and flavorful crockpot teriyaki chicken that requires minimal prep. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, this recipe yields tender, juicy chicken coated in a savory and sweet teriyaki glaze.
- Total Time: Approx. 4-6 hours
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken in the crockpot.
- Mix soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a bowl, then pour over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Optional: Mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water, add to the crockpot, and cook on high for 15 minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Serve over steamed rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, add cornstarch mixed with water during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- You can substitute chicken thighs with breasts for a leaner option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free soy sauce)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup shredded chicken
- Calories: 290 Kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 1020mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg