The moment I lift the lid off my crock pot, a cascade of sweet and savory aromas fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This Easy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is not just another meal; it’s a family-friendly feast that transforms simple ingredients into a dish bursting with flavor. With tender, juicy chicken bathing in a homemade teriyaki sauce that balances sweetness with a hint of tang, it’s hard to believe how effortlessly the flavors meld together.
I remember a particularly busy week, where takeout seemed like the only option. That’s when I decided to whip up this dish instead. It’s such a breeze to prepare—just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work. Plus, the versatility makes it a hit; whether you enjoy it shredded over rice or cubed in a stir-fry, it adapts to whatever your heart desires. Ready to impress your loved ones without the stress? Let’s dive into making this kitchen hero!
Why Choose Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?
Convenience: With just a few simple steps, you can set your slow cooker and forget about it, freeing up your day for other activities.
Family-Friendly: This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, appealing to kids and adults alike.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet and savory homemade teriyaki sauce transforms basic chicken into an extraordinary meal.
Gluten-Free Option: Easily adapt this recipe for gluten-sensitive diets by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Endless Variations: Whether you serve it shredded with rice or cubed in a stir-fry, this versatile dish can be tailored to fit any occasion.
Quick Meal Prep: Spend less time in the kitchen with this efficient recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week.
Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken Ingredients
Discover the key ingredients that bring your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken to life!
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast – The main protein source that ensures perfect tenderness; feel free to swap in skin-on thighs for extra flavor.
• Black Pepper – Adds seasoning and warmth; freshly ground is preferred for a delightful flavor boost.
For the Teriyaki Sauce
• Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and caramelization in the sauce; coconut sugar is a fantastic low-glycemic substitute.
• Soy Sauce – Gives umami and savory depth; opt for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-sensitive diet.
• Rice Wine Vinegar – Balances the sauce with acidity; apple cider vinegar can work if you’re in a pinch.
• Fresh Ginger – Adds warmth and zest; use ground ginger if necessary, about 1 teaspoon will do.
• Garlic – Enhances the complexity of flavors; crushed fresh garlic is ideal, though pre-minced works in a hurry.
For The Sauce Thickening
• Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce for the perfect cling; remember to whisk it with water to create a slurry before adding.
• Water – Used for the cornstarch slurry; adjust the amount based on your preferred sauce thickness.
For the Garnish
• Toasted Sesame Seeds – Optional but adds great texture and visual appeal when sprinkled on top.
Now gather these ingredients, and get ready to create a meal that’s not only comforting but also bursts with flavor!
How to Make Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
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Prepare Chicken: Start by placing the boneless skinless chicken breasts in your crock pot. Make sure to season them generously with freshly ground black pepper for that warm, savory kick.
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Mix Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, fresh ginger, and crushed garlic. Continue mixing until the sauce is smooth and well-combined—this will be the flavor backbone of your dish.
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Combine: Pour the delicious teriyaki sauce over the seasoned chicken in the crock pot. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated to absorb all those amazing flavors as it cooks.
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Cook: Cover your crock pot and set it to high for 2 hours and 15 minutes, or low for 3-4 hours. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is tender enough to shred with ease.
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Shred Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken from the crock pot. Use two forks to shred or cube it based on your serving preference. This is where the magic happens!
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Thicken Sauce: Pour the cooking sauce into a saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil. Whisk in a cornstarch slurry (made by mixing cornstarch with water) until the sauce thickens, then return the shredded chicken to the pan to coat it nicely.
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Serve: Dish the glossy, savory chicken over rice, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for that extra touch of texture and flavor.
Optional: Add steamed broccoli during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken pieces are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce (brown sugar, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, ginger, and garlic) up to 24 hours in advance in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you prefer, the cooked chicken can be shredded and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in the sauce on the stovetop or in the microwave, and whisk in a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce anew. This way, you’ll enjoy that just-cooked taste with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?
Elevate your family meal with delightful sides that complement this flavorful dish beautifully.
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Fluffy White Rice: Serves as a perfect canvas for soaking up the sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce, enhancing every bite.
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Steamed Broccoli: Fresh and bright, broccoli provides a crunchy contrast, adding color and nutrients to your plate.
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Sesame Noodles: The nutty flavor of sesame noodles enhances the meal with an Asian-inspired twist, delivering satisfying chewiness.
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Crispy Egg Rolls: A playful appetizer that adds texture and crunch, filling your meal with delightful surprises at every corner.
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Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, a cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame seeds cools the palate while balancing rich flavors.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this tropical treat offers a sweet, chewy ending—perfect for those who love a touch of sweetness to their meals.
Pairing your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken with these sides transforms dinner into a well-rounded feast everyone will love!
How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Meal Prep: This Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is perfect for meal prep—pair it with steamed veggies or rice for quick, delicious lunches throughout the week.
Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken Variations
Feel free to make this delicious dish your own with these simple twists and substitutes!
- Vegetarian Tofu: Swap the chicken for firm tofu, marinated and cubed, for a satisfying plant-based meal.
- Colorful Veggies: Add vibrant bell peppers or snap peas in the last hour of cooking for a nutritious burst of color.
- Lower Sugar: Use pure maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetness with a touch of flavor complexity.
- Zesty Citrus: Squeeze in some fresh lime juice just before serving for an uplifting citrus twist that brightens the dish.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to ramp up the heat level, perfect for spice lovers!
- Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a tablespoon of peanut or almond butter into the sauce for a rich, nutty depth that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Pineapple Delight: Add pineapple chunks during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a sweet and tangy tropical flair.
- Savory Mushrooms: Stir in sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor and meaty texture that complements the chicken beautifully.
Customize your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken and create a magical meal that everyone will adore!
Expert Tips for Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
- Avoid Overcooking: Check the chicken’s internal temperature around 3-3.5 hours on low, as each slow cooker varies in cooking intensity.
- Sauce Thickness: For a thicker sauce, mix in 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with water; 2 tablespoons will yield a richer consistency.
- Add Vegetables: For an easy nutritional boost, toss in frozen broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking.
- Savor Freshness: Use freshly crushed garlic and ginger for maximum flavor impact; substitutes may fall short in brightness.
- Customize for Taste: Feel free to add chili flakes or your favorite spices to elevate the heat level and personalize your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken.
Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless skinless chicken breasts for optimal tenderness, but you can easily substitute with skin-on thighs for a richer flavor. The slight fat content in thighs can enhance the taste and moisture of your dish.
How long can I store leftover Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let your dish cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which can make it soggy.
Can I freeze Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?
Yes! For freezing, portion the chicken into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Remember to label your containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness!
What should I do if the sauce is too thin?
No worries! If your sauce turns out thinner than expected, you can easily thicken it. Pour the sauce into a saucepan, bring it to a gentle boil, and whisk in a cornstarch slurry made by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of water. Stir until thickened, and enjoy your perfect sauce!
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets?
Very much so! You can easily adapt this Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken for gluten-sensitive diets by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. These alternatives provide the same umami-rich flavor without any gluten.
What if I want to add vegetables to the dish?
Of course! Adding vegetables is a wonderful idea to enhance nutrition and flavor. You can toss in frozen broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking to keep them vibrant and tender without losing their crunch. Enjoy experimenting!
Savory Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken You'll Love Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by placing the boneless skinless chicken breasts in your crock pot. Make sure to season them generously with freshly ground black pepper for that warm, savory kick.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, fresh ginger, and crushed garlic. Continue mixing until the sauce is smooth and well-combined.
- Pour the delicious teriyaki sauce over the seasoned chicken in the crock pot. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated to absorb all those amazing flavors as it cooks.
- Cover your crock pot and set it to high for 2 hours and 15 minutes, or low for 3-4 hours. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the crock pot and use two forks to shred or cube it based on your serving preference.
- Pour the cooking sauce into a saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil. Whisk in a cornstarch slurry until the sauce thickens, then return the shredded chicken to the pan.
- Dish the glossy, savory chicken over rice, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for that extra touch.