Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

This Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken recipe is the perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner. With just five minutes of prep time, you can whip up a delicious and satisfying meal that your whole family will love. The slow cooker makes it easy to infuse the chicken with rich teriyaki flavors while you go about your day. Serve it with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal that’s ideal for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 5 minutes, you can set this dish up and let the slow cooker do all the work.
• Flavorful Satisfaction: The combination of honey, soy sauce, and spices creates a mouthwatering taste that pleases everyone.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair your teriyaki chicken with rice, noodles, or fresh vegetables for variety.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: With enough to serve 8 people, it’s perfect for family gatherings or parties.
• Easy Cleanup: Using a crock pot means less mess compared to traditional cooking methods.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on this tasty recipe, it’s important to gather the right tools. Having the essential equipment makes preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Whisk
• Fine mesh strainer
• 4-quart saucepan
• Medium serving dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show, allowing for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors into your chicken.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining ingredients smoothly without lumps in your sauce.
• Fine mesh strainer: Ensures a silky sauce by removing any solids from the cooked mixture.

Ingredients

For this delicious Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken, you’ll need:

• 2 pounds chicken breasts
• 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
• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 Tablespoon cool water

How to Make Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Grease the Slow Cooker

Grease the container of your large slow cooker to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

Add the sauce ingredients in the order listed into the prepared container of a slow cooker:
1. Pour in honey.
2. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, mirin, ginger, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and sesame oil.
3. Whisk until well combined. Do not add the cornstarch and water mixture yet!

Step 3: Add Chicken

Place chicken breasts into the slow cooker and turn them to coat evenly with the sauce.

Step 4: Cook

Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until chicken is easily shredded with a fork.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Remove chicken from the crockpot and place it into a medium serving dish. Do not discard the sauce. Shred chicken using two forks and cover to keep warm.

Step 6: Strain Sauce

Set a fine mesh strainer over a 4-quart saucepan and carefully pour sauce through it into the saucepan.

Step 7: Thicken Sauce

Mix cornstarch in cool water until dissolved; add it to the strained sauce:
1. Stir or whisk until fully incorporated.
2. Bring sauce to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook while stirring constantly until thickened.

Step 8: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Mix half of the thickened sauce into the shredded chicken. Reserve the other half for serving.

Step 9: Serve

Serve your delicious Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken with rice, stir-fried veggies, or your favorite Asian salad!

With this simple guide, you’ll enjoy flavorful teriyaki chicken any night of the week!

How to Serve Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a comforting meal or a fresh, vibrant plate, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: Classic and simple, steamed white rice absorbs the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
• Fried Rice: For added flavor and texture, serve with fried rice mixed with vegetables and eggs.
• Brown Rice: A healthier option that pairs well with the sweet teriyaki flavors.

With Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick stir-fried mixed veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas add color and crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out sweetness; try carrots, zucchini, or asparagus drizzled with soy sauce.
• Asian Salad: A refreshing salad with sesame dressing complements the rich flavors of the chicken.

As Wraps

• Lettuce Wraps: Use crisp lettuce leaves to wrap shredded chicken for a low-carb option.
• Tortilla Wraps: Soft tortillas filled with chicken, veggies, and a drizzle of extra sauce create a tasty handheld meal.

In Bowls

• Teriyaki Chicken Bowls: Layer rice or quinoa with shredded chicken and vegetables for a filling bowl meal.
• Noodle Bowls: Serve over soba or rice noodles topped with your favorite veggies for an Asian twist.

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How to Perfect Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

To make your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken even better, consider these tips for a perfect outcome.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to dried versions.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the honey or substitute it with less sugar alternative.
• Marinate Ahead of Time: For deeper flavor, marinate your chicken in the sauce for an hour before cooking.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Make sure to whisk the cornstarch thoroughly into water for a smooth sauce that thickens nicely.
• Serve Immediately: The chicken is best served right after mixing with sauce while it’s still warm and juicy.
• Experiment with Toppings: Add sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top for extra texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

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

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides crunch and balances out the dish’s sweetness.
2. Sesame Green Beans: Tossed in sesame oil and seeds, these beans add a nutty flavor that pairs well with teriyaki.
3. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice adds heartiness; try adding peas and carrots for color.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar offers a cool contrast to warm chicken.
5. Miso Soup: A light miso soup as an appetizer warms up your meal without overpowering it.
6. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with veggies complement the chicken’s taste perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here’s how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the marinade time: Allowing the chicken to soak in the sauce for a while enhances flavor. Even a quick 30 minutes can make a difference.
• Using low-quality soy sauce: The quality of soy sauce significantly impacts taste. Opt for a good brand for the best results.
• Not shredding the chicken properly: Shredded chicken absorbs more sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Take your time when shredding.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking too long can dry out the meat. Stick to recommended cooking times for juicy results.
• Neglecting to thicken the sauce: Skipping the cornstarch mixture leaves you with watery sauce. Always remember this step for a rich glaze.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let the chicken cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Ensure you remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on medium power in short intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a skillet with leftover sauce until warmed, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is a slow-cooked dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a delicious homemade teriyaki sauce.

How do I make Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken healthier?

To make it healthier, use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce sugar by using less honey or substituting it with a natural sweetener.

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breast, but increase cooking time by about an hour if cooking on low.

What can I serve with Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?

It pairs beautifully with rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even salad for a lighter option.

How long does it take to cook Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken on high?

When cooked on high, it takes approximately 3 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken recipe is not only easy but also incredibly flavorful. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish allows for customization with your favorite vegetables or side dishes. Try it out and enjoy the delightful taste!