Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Looking for an easy, delightful meal that will leave your taste buds dancing? Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is the answer to your culinary prayers! This dish is not just about convenience; it combines tender, juicy chicken with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce that practically sings with flavor. Did you know that teriyaki sauce has its roots in Japan, where “teri” means glaze and “yaki” means grill or broil? This dish brings a taste of Japan right into your kitchen, and the best part? It’s prepared in a slow cooker, allowing you to set it and forget it while you tackle your busy day!

If you love quick and comforting meals like our famous Chicken Alfredo Pasta, then this recipe is right up your alley. It’s family-friendly, budget-conscious, and bursting with vibrant flavors. So, grab your slow cooker, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken!

What is Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken?

So, what’s in a name? Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken certainly has a catchy ring to it! But let’s be honest: it’s a name that doesn’t come with any mystery; it tells you exactly what to expect—chicken cooked slowly in a delicious teriyaki sauce. Who came up with this culinary masterpiece? While ancient Japanese cooking techniques certainly paved the way, our modern love for slow cookers has made this dish accessible to everyone. It’s a classic saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and let me tell you, this dish will have everyone sing your praises! Try it out, and watch your family and friends fall in love!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Get ready to fall head over heels for Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken! One of the main highlights of this dish is the incredibly tender chicken that simmers for hours in a rich, fragrant teriyaki sauce. Why pay for takeout when this dish offers the same great taste at a fraction of the cost? Homemade meals can actually save you money while providing a nourish-your-soul experience for your family.

Topped with sesame seeds and green onions, the dish is as beautiful as it is delicious. If you’re a fan of stir-fries or other Asian-inspired recipes, you’ll definitely want to check out our Honey Garlic Chicken for even more delicious options! Ready to get your apron on and create your own culinary masterpiece?

How to Make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Quick Overview

This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is not just simple—it’s also a cozy, comforting masterpiece you can prepare in a snap! With minimal effort, you can enjoy a meal bursting with flavor. It only takes about 15 minutes to prep, and then your slow cooker does the rest! You can come home to the irresistible aroma of dinner ready to serve!

Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken:

1. 2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts (boneless and skinless)
2. ¾ cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
3. 1 tablespoon minced garlic
4. 1 teaspoon minced ger
5. 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
6. 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
7. 2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)
8. Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing the 2 lbs of chicken into your slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is spread out evenly for consistent cooking.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the ¾ cup teriyaki sauce, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 1 teaspoon minced ger, and 1 tablespoon honey if using. Stir until well mixed.
3. Pour It Over: Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated.
4. Set and Forget: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Your kitchen will fill with an amazing aroma!
5. Shred and Serve: Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks directly in the slow cooker to soak up more of that delicious sauce.
6. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve over cooked rice or noodles, and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for that finishing touch.

What to Serve Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken With:

Make your meal complete by pairing it with some steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for added color and nutrition. A simple side of fried rice or a refreshing cucumber salad drizzled with sesame oil makes the perfect accompaniment too! To wash it all down, try serving with a light iced tea or a sparkling water infused with lime for a refreshing twist.

Top Tips for Perfecting Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken:

• Chicken Choices: While chicken thighs are juice-packed and flavorful, you can also use chicken breasts if that’s your preference. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more quickly than thighs.
• Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, once the chicken is cooked, remove it and set your slow cooker to high. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, and stir this into the sauce. Let it bubble until thickened!
• Flavor Boost: Feel free to add veggies, such as sliced bell peppers or onions, to the slow cooker for an all-in-one meal!

Storing and Reheating Tips:

Leftover Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, transfer it to a freezer-friendly container and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot. You may find that the flavors have even deepened, making for an even more delicious second serving!

Enjoy making this Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken and become the hero of your kitchen! Your family will not only love the taste but will also appreciate the ease of preparation. Happy cooking!

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

A tender and juicy chicken dish cooked in a rich teriyaki sauce, perfect for busy days.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Asian, Japanese

Calories: 370

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts Use thighs for juiciness, breasts for a leaner option.
• ¾ cup teriyaki sauce Store-bought or homemade.
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ger
• 1 tablespoon honey Optional, for added sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds For garnish.
• 2 pieces green onions Sliced, for garnish.
• as needed cooked rice or noodles For serving.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Place the chicken into the slow cooker, spread out evenly.
2. In a small bowl, combine teriyaki sauce, minced garlic, minced ger, and honey (if using). Stir until well mixed.
3. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated.

Cooking

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
2. Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks directly in the slow cooker to soak up the sauce.

Serving

1. Serve over cooked rice or noodles, and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Notes

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat on the stovetop or microwave until hot.