Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that delivers a flavorful experience with minimal effort. If you’re seeking a wholesome yet delicious meal that practically cooks itself, this recipe is your answer. Using the slow cooker allows the chicken to absorb the rich teriyaki sauce, resulting in tender meat that boasts an unbeatable flavor profile. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish serves up a delightful fusion of sweet and savory that will satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
One of the best things about this Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken recipe is its simplicity. In just a few easy steps, you can create a delightful meal that everyone will love. The convenience of a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing you to go about your day without worrying about dinner. Plus, the ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, making this recipe accessible to all. The balance of flavors in the teriyaki sauce is enhanced by the slow cooking process, creating a depth of flavor that traditional cooking methods often can’t achieve. Whether you’re serving it over rice or using it as a filling for wraps, this dish is versatile and satisfying.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
To prepare this delicious Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup honey or brown sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated or minced
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Directions
Making Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a straightforward process that begins with the preparation of the teriyaki sauce. First, grab a mixing bowl and combine the low-sodium soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar, water, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Whisk these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth consistency. This homemade teriyaki sauce is the star of your dish, so take a moment to enjoy its enticing aroma.
Next, it’s time to prepare the chicken. Place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure the pieces are laid out evenly, creating a base that will soak up all the delicious sauce. Once the chicken is arranged, pour the teriyaki sauce over the top, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated. This step is crucial, as the sauce will not only flavor the chicken but will also create a tempting glaze.
After you’ve poured the sauce, cover the slow cooker with its lid. You have two cooking options here: you can cook the chicken on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for about 4 hours. The low and slow method is ideal if you want ultra-tender chicken that practically falls apart. If you’re in a hurry, the high setting will still yield fantastic results, though the texture may be slightly different.
Once the cooking time is up, you may want to thicken the sauce for a more satisfying finish. If so, remove the chicken from the slow cooker before proceeding. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little water until smooth—this is your thickening agent. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the remaining sauce in the slow cooker and turn it to high. Let it cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes to thicken up nicely.
If you prefer shredded chicken, now is the time to do it. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the thickened sauce. This method distributes the flavor evenly and ensures each bite is bursting with delicious teriyaki goodness.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
When it comes to serving your Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken, there are many delightful options to explore. One of the most popular ways is to serve it over a bed of steamed rice. The fluffy texture of the rice complements the rich sauce perfectly, making for a well-balanced meal. If you’re looking to incorporate extra veggies, consider adding steamed broccoli, snap peas, or carrots alongside the rice. This not only enhances the dish but also adds a pop of color and nutrition.
Another appealing way to enjoy this dish is by using it as a filling in wraps or tacos. You can take the shredded chicken and pile it into soft tortillas or lettuce wraps for a fresh and exciting meal. Top it with additional sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra crunch and flavor. The versatility of this recipe allows you to experiment and make it fit your family’s tastes.
For a complete dining experience, don’t forget to serve up some side dishes. A simple cucumber salad or Asian slaw can refresh your palate and provide a great contrast in texture. End your meal with a light dessert, like fruit salad or a sorbet, to cleanse your taste buds after enjoying the savory teriyaki chicken.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
To ensure your Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips:
- Prep Ahead of Time: If you have a busy schedule, prep your ingredients the night before. Chop the garlic and ginger, mix the sauce, and store everything in the fridge. This way, you can simply add everything to the slow cooker in the morning.
- Use the Right Chicken: While chicken breasts are a popular choice, using chicken thighs can add more flavor and moisture to your dish. Thighs tend to handle longer cooking times better without drying out.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on your taste preferences, you can adjust the amount of honey or brown sugar in the recipe. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the sugar or substitute with a sugar alternative.
- Experiment with Add-Ons: The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to toss in vegetables like bell peppers or onions into the slow cooker for added texture and nutrition.
- Don’t Skip the Garnish: Garnishing your dish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions not only looks appealing but also adds a delightful crunch and fresh flavor. Always take the time to make your dish look visually inviting.
How to Store Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying your Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken, storing it is simple! Allow the chicken to cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Properly stored, it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
For longer storage, consider freezing your teriyaki chicken. Place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will stay fresh for up to 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. This is a fantastic way to always have a delicious meal ready to go.
Variation of Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
There are so many ways you can customize your Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Spicy Teriyaki Chicken: If you enjoy a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha into the sauce before cooking. This will give your dish an exciting kick without overpowering the original flavors.
- Vegetarian Option: You can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with firm tofu. Make sure to press and cube the tofu before adding it to the slow cooker. It will absorb the teriyaki sauce just as nicely.
- Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken: For a tropical twist, add pineapple chunks to the slow cooker. The sweet and tangy pineapple will complement the teriyaki sauce beautifully, creating a fruity flavor profile.
- Citrus Twist: Incorporate some orange or lime juice into the sauce for a refreshing citrus flavor. This will brighten up the dish and give it a unique twist that is sure to impress.
- Asian-Inspired Bowls: Prepare bowls with rice or quinoa, topped with the teriyaki chicken, sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, and edible flowers for a visually stunning and delicious meal.
FAQ
What is Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken?
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a delicious dish made by cooking chicken in a flavorful homemade teriyaki sauce in a slow cooker. It results in tender, flavorful chicken perfect for serving over rice or in wraps.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken?
You can cook Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 4 hours, depending on your schedule and preference.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
While fresh chicken is recommended for optimal flavor, you can use frozen chicken. However, make sure to increase the cooking time to ensure it is thoroughly cooked.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is perfect for meal prepping. It stores well in the refrigerator and can be frozen for later use, making it a convenient option for busy meals.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, vegetables, or in wraps. You can also enjoy it with salads or as a filling for rice paper rolls. The options are endless!
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
Ingredients
For the teriyaki sauce
- 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce Choose low-sodium to control salt intake.
- 1/2 cup honey or brown sugar Can adjust sweetness according to taste.
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar Adds acidity to balance sweetness.
- 1/4 cup water Helps in thinning the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced For flavor enhancement.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated or minced Adds warmth and spice.
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil For richness in flavor.
For the chicken
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs Thighs tend to retain moisture better.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch Optional, for thickening the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds For garnish.
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation of Teriyaki Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar, water, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Whisk until smooth.
Cook the Chicken
- Place chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 4 hours.
- For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken after cooking, mix cornstarch with water, stir into the sauce, and cook on high for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
- If desired, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed rice, with extra veggies like broccoli or snap peas, or use in wraps.
- Garnish with additional sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
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