The Best Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

A Flavorful, Effortless Meal for Any Night of the Week

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. This dish delivers tender, juicy chicken coated in a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce that pairs beautifully with rice or vegetables. The best part? It requires minimal effort—simply set it in the slow cooker and let it do the work.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, making this a hassle-free meal.
• Incredible Flavor: A homemade teriyaki sauce gives a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well and can be easily reheated for quick lunches or dinners.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ¼ cup honey
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ½ cup water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons cold water (to mix with cornstarch)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), and water.

2. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the teriyaki sauce over it, ensuring the chicken is well coated.

3. Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.

4. Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return it to the slow cooker.

5. Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Stir the mixture into the slow cooker, then cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on high until the sauce thickens.

6. Serve and Garnish

Serve the teriyaki chicken over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha.
• Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for a more balanced dish.
• Pineapple Teriyaki: Mix in pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes – 5 hours 10 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent my chicken from drying out?

Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result. Cooking on low heat also helps retain moisture.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes, but homemade sauce offers a fresher and more customizable flavor.

What’s the best way to shred the chicken?

Use two forks, or for a quicker method, place the cooked chicken in a mixing bowl and use a hand mixer.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook and store it in the fridge or freezer. It reheats well without losing flavor.

What side dishes pair well with teriyaki chicken?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, roasted broccoli, or a fresh cucumber salad are great options.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Cooking frozen chicken directly in the slow cooker can lead to uneven cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, but reduce the honey and brown sugar or substitute them with a sugar-free alternative.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Increase the cornstarch mixture slightly or let the sauce cook longer after adding it.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then do a quick release and follow the same shredding and thickening steps.

What can I do with leftovers?

Use them in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or even over a salad for a quick meal.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is an easy and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and bold flavors, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite. Serve it with rice, veggies, or noodles, and enjoy a satisfying homemade dinner with ease.

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