Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Slow cooker teriyaki chicken is a perfect dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This easy-to-make recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce with tender chicken that practically falls apart. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also versatile enough to serve over rice or in wraps. This dish will impress your family and friends, offering a taste of Asian cuisine without the hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Flavorful & Savory: The combination of soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil creates a deliciously rich sauce that enhances the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Ideas: Serve over rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for a fresh twist.
• Kid-Friendly Meal: The sweet and savory flavors make this dish a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and lower in sodium when using low-sodium soy sauce, this meal is nutritious too.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this simple slow cooker teriyaki chicken recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, slowly infusing the chicken with flavor while keeping it moist.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing the sauce ingredients thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution.
• Strainer: This helps to separate solids from liquids for a smooth sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.

Ingredients

To create this delicious slow cooker teriyaki chicken, gather the following ingredients:

Chicken Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts

Sauce Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 2 teaspoons ginger (minced)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

Thickening Agents

• 1/4 cup cold water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Toppings

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons sliced green onions

How to Make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Add Chicken to Slow Cooker

Place the chicken breasts directly into the slow cooker.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together minced garlic, minced ginger, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Pour the prepared soy sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook

Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 5-6 hours until the chicken is tender.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 6: Strain Sauce

Pour the teriyaki sauce from the slow cooker through a strainer into a saucepan.

Step 7: Simmer Sauce

Place the saucepan on medium-high heat and bring it to a simmer.

Step 8: Thicken Sauce

In a small bowl:
1. Mix cornstarch with cold water until dissolved.
2. Pour this mixture into the simmering sauce.
3. Bring to a boil and cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened.

Step 9: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Pour the thickened teriyaki sauce over shredded chicken in a large bowl. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly.

Step 10: Serve

Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top before serving. Enjoy your delicious slow cooker teriyaki chicken!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Slow cooker teriyaki chicken is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you prefer it over rice or in a wrap, there are endless options to enjoy this flavorful dish.

Over Rice

• Serve the teriyaki chicken over steamed white or brown rice for a filling meal. The rice absorbs the savory sauce, enhancing each bite.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use crisp lettuce leaves to create fresh and light wraps. Add shredded chicken and some veggies for a crunchy texture.

With Noodles

• Toss the shredded chicken with cooked noodles for a hearty dish. You can use soba, udon, or even ramen noodles for variety.

On a Salad

• Create a teriyaki chicken salad by adding greens, cucumbers, and carrots. Drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce for added flavor.

As Tacos

• Fill corn or flour tortillas with teriyaki chicken and your choice of toppings for a fun twist on traditional tacos.

In a Bowl

• Make a rice bowl by layering the chicken with broccoli, carrots, and other favorite vegetables. Top with sesame seeds for extra crunch.

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How to Perfect Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

To achieve the best slow cooker teriyaki chicken, consider these simple tips that will elevate your dish.

• Choose high-quality chicken: Fresh boneless skinless chicken breasts yield the best flavor and texture.

• Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the sauce for an hour before cooking enhances its taste.

• Use low-sodium soy sauce: This helps control saltiness while still providing that classic umami flavor.

• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of honey or brown sugar based on your taste preference.

• Thicken sauce properly: Ensure you mix cornstarch well with water before adding it to avoid lumps in your sauce.

• Garnish generously: Adding sesame seeds and green onions not only improves appearance but also adds flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Pairing slow cooker teriyaki chicken with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli complements the sweet flavors of teriyaki while adding nutrients.

2. Fried Rice: A savory fried rice loaded with peas, carrots, and eggs makes for a satisfying side that pairs well with the dish.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and texture; try bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus.

4. Edamame: These protein-packed soybeans make a perfect appetizer or side that balances out the meal’s sweetness.

5. Miso Soup: A light miso soup offers warmth and depth to your dining experience while keeping it authentic.

6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar provides a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.

7. Quinoa Salad: Nutritious quinoa mixed with vegetables creates a hearty base that pairs beautifully with teriyaki flavors.

8. Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made from cabbage and carrots adds crunch and brightness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a simple dish, but there are common pitfalls. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your meal turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can result in bland flavor. Always let it soak up the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Using regular soy sauce: Regular soy sauce can make the dish too salty. Opt for low sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness and enhance flavors.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dry meat. Stick to the recommended cook times for juicy results.
• Neglecting to thicken the sauce: Pouring unthickened sauce over shredded chicken can make it watery. Use cornstarch and water to give your sauce a rich consistency.
• Not garnishing: Skipping garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions can make your dish look less appealing. Always finish with a sprinkle for that restaurant-quality touch.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: In a pan over medium heat, stir until heated through; add a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken?

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a delicious dish made by cooking chicken breasts with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and honey in a slow cooker.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in your Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken recipe. Just increase cooking time by about an hour.

How do I customize my teriyaki chicken?

You can customize it by adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas during cooking. You may also adjust sweetness by varying honey or sugar amounts.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken?

Serve this dish over rice or noodles for a complete meal. It pairs well with steamed broccoli or green beans as side dishes.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables and serve it over different bases like rice or noodles. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!