There’s something special about coming home to the savory smell of teriyaki chicken simmering in the slow cooker. I remember the first time I made this dish; the sweet and tangy aroma filled my kitchen and drew my family in, eager to gather around the table. This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken recipe means comfort and togetherness for us. You can have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones. What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. You only need a handful of ingredients, and the slow cooker does all the work.

Why Make This Recipe

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a fantastic choice for busy nights or lazy weekends. It’s easy to prepare, and the slow cooking process enhances the flavors, making the chicken tender and juicy. Plus, it’s a dish that everyone enjoys, from kids to adults. With just a few minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it, leaving you free to relax or tackle other tasks while dinner cooks.

How to Make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Ingredients:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup teriyaki sauce
2 tablespoons honey (optional)
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Start by placing the chicken in the slow cooker.
In a bowl, mix the teriyaki sauce, honey (if using), garlic, ginger, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, shred the chicken with a fork, stir it back into the sauce, and let it sit for 10 more minutes before serving.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Serve your teriyaki chicken over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. Top it with green onions and crushed sesame seeds for added flavor and a nice presentation. You can also serve it with stir-fried vegetables or a simple salad to balance the meal.

How to Store Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

For a thicker sauce, you can remove the chicken, mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water), and stir it into the sauce while cooking on high for an additional 20 minutes.
Feel free to use chicken breasts if you prefer; just be cautious not to overcook them to keep them juicy.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey based on your taste preference.

Variation

You can customize your teriyaki chicken by adding vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas in the last hour of cooking. This adds color and nutrition to your meal.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?

A1: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the cooking time by an hour, and ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A2: Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce the night before, store them separately, and then cook them the next day.

Q3: What can I serve with teriyaki chicken?

A3: Teriyaki chicken pairs well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a lighter option.