Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

This easy Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful dish that offers a burst of flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, it combines tender chicken with a savory-sweet teriyaki sauce. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving guests, this recipe is sure to impress. The standout qualities include the ability to use simple ingredients while delivering restaurant-quality taste right at home.

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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 Sauce
• To Thicken
• For Garnish
• How to Make Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
• Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
• Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients
• Step 3: Add Chicken Breasts
• Step 4: Cook the Chicken
• Step 5: Shred the Chicken
• Step 6: Strain Cooking Liquid
• Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
• Step 8: Combine Chicken with Sauce
• Step 9: Serve!
• How to Serve Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
• Serve with Rice
• Pair with Vegetables
• Create Wraps
• Add Salads
• How to Perfect Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
• Reheating Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?
• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
• How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
• What can I serve with Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?
• How long does this dish take to cook?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can set this meal and forget about it until it’s time to eat.
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade teriyaki sauce is sweet, savory, and made from scratch, ensuring freshness and quality.
• Versatile Serving Options: This dish pairs beautifully with rice, stir-fried veggies, or even in a wrap for lunch the next day.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and store leftovers for quick meals later in the week.
• Customizable Ingredients: Swap chicken breasts for thighs or use gluten-free soy sauce to meet dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure smooth cooking. Having the right equipment makes the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Fine mesh sieve
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, resulting in tender chicken infused with flavor over hours.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for combining sauces smoothly without lumps.
• Fine mesh sieve: Using this tool ensures your sauce is free of any solids for a silky finish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds chicken breasts

For the Sauce

• ½ cup honey
• ¾ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• ¼ cup mirin
• ½ teaspoon powdered ginger
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

To Thicken

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon cool water

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Lightly grease the bowl of a large slow cooker to prevent sticking during cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

In the slow cooker, whisk together:
1. Honey
2. Soy sauce
3. Rice vinegar
4. Mirin
5. Powdered ginger
6. Garlic powder
7. Onion powder
8. Black pepper
9. Sesame oil

Do not add the cornstarch and water yet; they will be used later.

Step 3: Add Chicken Breasts

Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker and turn them gently to coat in the sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside and cover to keep warm.

Step 6: Strain Cooking Liquid

Strain the cooking liquid through a fine mesh sieve into a saucepan to remove any solids.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with cool water to create a slurry. Whisk this mixture into the strained sauce in your saucepan.

1. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Stir constantly until thickened to your desired consistency.

Step 8: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Mix half of the thickened sauce into the shredded chicken while reserving some for serving later.

Step 9: Serve!

Serve your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken with rice, stir-fried vegetables, or an Asian-inspired salad for a complete meal!

How to Serve Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or prepping meals for the week, there are plenty of delicious serving options to enhance your meal.

Serve with Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant and fluffy base that absorbs the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
• Fried Rice: Add an Asian twist by stir-frying leftover rice with vegetables and soy sauce for added texture.

Pair with Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick-cook bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for a colorful and crunchy side.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with sesame oil and garlic for a nutty flavor that complements the chicken.

Create Wraps

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the shredded chicken, adding fresh herbs like cilantro for brightness.
• Tortilla Wraps: Fill flour tortillas with teriyaki chicken and add avocado slices for creaminess.

Add Salads

• Asian Slaw: A mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crunch and freshness alongside the savory chicken.
• Cucumber Salad: Lightly pickled cucumbers provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of teriyaki.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

To achieve the most flavorful and tender Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken, follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and onion will enhance the flavor more than powdered versions.
• Adjust Sweetness: Modify the amount of honey based on your preference for sweetness; you can even use brown sugar as an alternative.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Be mindful of cooking times; overcooking can lead to dry chicken. Aim for 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Make sure to create a smooth slurry with cornstarch before adding it to the sauce to avoid lumps.
• Experiment with Proteins: Try using chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Store Correctly: Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Use within one week if refrigerated.

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Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Pairing your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken with the right side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious choice that provides a vibrant color contrast and balances the flavors of the dish.
2. Fried Rice Pilaf: Flavored with scallions and peas; it’s a filling option that complements the teriyaki sauce well.
3. Sesame Noodles: Tossed in sesame oil and soy sauce, these noodles make for a deliciously easy addition.
4. Quinoa Salad: Packed with protein, this light salad can be mixed with chopped veggies and a sesame dressing.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can be a comforting side that pairs nicely with Asian-inspired dishes.
6. Pickled Vegetables: These add tanginess that contrasts beautifully with the sweet teriyaki sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are a few common mistakes to keep in mind:

• Skipping the marination: Not allowing the chicken to soak in the teriyaki sauce for a while can result in bland flavors. Always coat the chicken and let it sit in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Using low-quality soy sauce: The quality of soy sauce significantly impacts the dish’s flavor. Opt for a good brand to enhance your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can lead to dryness. Stick to the recommended cooking times for tender, juicy results.
• Neglecting to thicken the sauce: Some might skip thickening the sauce, which is essential for that perfect glaze. Always make sure to mix cornstarch with cool water before adding it to the sauce.
• Not adjusting for personal taste: Everyone loves different levels of sweetness or saltiness. Taste the sauce as you go and adjust ingredients like honey or soy sauce according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• This can be kept in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Make sure the chicken is cooled before sealing it.

Freezing Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

• For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• It can last up to two months in the freezer.
• Label your containers with the date for reference.

Reheating Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is a slow-cooked dish made with chicken breasts coated in a homemade teriyaki sauce. It results in tender, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for serving over rice or vegetables.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, using chicken thighs will give you extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust cooking times if needed.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

What can I serve with Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even an Asian-inspired salad for a complete meal.

How long does this dish take to cook?

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken typically takes about 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high. Adjust based on your slow cooker model and settings.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile and perfect for busy weeknights. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting sweetness levels. Give this easy recipe a try; your family will love it!