Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Slow cooker teriyaki chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a savory and sweet sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, as it requires minimal prep time and delivers maximum flavor. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and honey. Once shredded and served over rice, it becomes a satisfying meal for everyone.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Teriyaki Sauce
• For Thickening the Sauce
• Garnish
• How to Make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients
• Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce
• Step 4: Cook
• Step 5: Shred Chicken
• Step 6: Prepare Sauce for Thickening
• Step 7: Thicken Sauce
• Step 8: Combine Chicken with Sauce
• Step 9: Serve
• How to Serve Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
• Over Steamed Rice
• In Lettuce Wraps
• With Stir-Fried Vegetables
• As a Sandwich
• As Tacos
• On Noodles
• How to Perfect Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
• Reheating Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken spicier?
• Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
• What sides go well with Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken?
• Can I double this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a rich and tasty sauce that elevates any meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice, in wraps, or alongside steamed vegetables for varied meals.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet teriyaki flavor, making it a hit at family dinners.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your slow cooker teriyaki chicken experience seamless, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can enhance your cooking process and ensure everything turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Strainer
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the heart of the recipe. It allows for hands-off cooking while infusing your chicken with flavors.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Strainer: Helps separate the sauce from any solids ensuring a smooth texture.
• Saucepan: Used to thicken your teriyaki sauce before serving.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 2 teaspoons ginger (minced)

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

For Thickening the Sauce

• 1/4 cup cold water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Garnish

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons sliced green onions

How to Make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in a slow cooker.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
2. garlic
3. ginger
4. honey
5. brown sugar
6. soy sauce
7. toasted sesame oil
8. rice vinegar

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

1. Pour the mixed sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook

1. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 5–6 hours until the chicken is tender.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

1. Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker.
2. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 6: Prepare Sauce for Thickening

1. Pour any remaining teriyaki sauce from the slow cooker through a strainer into a saucepan.
2. Heat the saucepan over medium-high heat until it simmers.

Step 7: Thicken Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix together:
2. cornstarch
3. cold water until dissolved.
4. Add this mixture to your simmering sauce in the saucepan.
5. Bring to a boil and cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened.

Step 8: Combine Chicken with Sauce

1. Pour thickened sauce over shredded chicken.
2. Toss well to coat all pieces evenly.

Step 9: Serve

1. Sprinkle with:
2. sesame seeds
3. sliced green onions.
4. Serve hot over rice or your choice of side dishes!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Slow cooker teriyaki chicken is not just a delicious meal; it can also be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions that will complement this flavorful dish.

Over Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice is a classic pairing, allowing the teriyaki sauce to soak in and add flavor.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the shredded chicken in crisp lettuce leaves with a drizzle of teriyaki sauce.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Combine the chicken with colorful stir-fried vegetables for a nutritious and satisfying plate.

As a Sandwich

• Use crusty bread or buns to create a teriyaki chicken sandwich, topped with fresh veggies for added crunch.

As Tacos

• Fill soft tortillas with shredded chicken and top with slaw and extra sauce for a fun twist on tacos.

On Noodles

• Serve over cooked noodles like udon or soba for an Asian-inspired pasta dish that’s quick and easy.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Perfecting slow cooker teriyaki chicken is all about attention to detail and timing. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Use boneless skinless chicken breasts: This cut keeps the dish lean while still being tender after cooking.

• Marinate overnight: For deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the sauce overnight before cooking.

• Adjust sweetness levels: Depending on your taste, you can increase or decrease the honey and brown sugar amounts.

• Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer after adding cornstarch until it reaches your desired consistency.

• Garnish generously: Fresh green onions and sesame seeds add color, texture, and extra flavor that enhances presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Pairing side dishes with slow cooker teriyaki chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Brown Rice: A healthy alternative that complements the flavors of teriyaki while adding fiber.

2. Steamed Broccoli: The slight bitterness of broccoli balances well with the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce.

3. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness to your plate.

4. Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing cucumber salad can provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.

5. Quinoa: This protein-packed grain offers a nutty flavor that pairs well with teriyaki dishes.

6. Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor from grilling enhances the overall taste of your meal and adds elegance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow cooker teriyaki chicken is a delightful dish, but there are common pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid them for the best results.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can result in less flavor. Always allow the chicken to soak in the sauce for at least an hour before cooking.
• Overcrowding the Cooker: Adding too much chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amount to ensure each piece cooks thoroughly.
• Neglecting to Shred: Failing to shred the chicken after cooking can leave it tough. Shredding allows it to absorb more sauce and enhances its tenderness.
• Not Thicken Sauce: Ignoring the thickening step may leave you with watery sauce. Use cornstarch mixed with water for a perfect glaze that clings to your chicken.
• Ignoring Storage Guidelines: Storing leftovers improperly can lead to spoilage. Be sure to follow proper storage instructions for freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Label with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover; heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making slow cooker teriyaki chicken.

How do I make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce to the soy sauce mixture before pouring it over the chicken. Adjust according to your spice preference.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Just increase cooking time by an hour when using frozen meat.

What sides go well with Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken?

Serve it with steamed rice, broccoli, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors perfectly.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure your slow cooker has enough capacity and adjust cooking time as needed depending on how much you’re making.

Final Thoughts

Slow cooker teriyaki chicken is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting the sweetness of the sauce. This dish promises warmth and satisfaction, making it perfect for any dinner table. Give it a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!