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The first time I made Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken, I was captivated by the fusion of savory and slightly sweet flavors dancing in my kitchen. The sizzle of garlic and the warm aroma of ginger transformed my home into a cozy haven, instantly whisking me away to my favorite Asian bistro. What I initially thought would be an elaborate endeavor turned into a simple, hands-off masterpiece that my whole family devoured in no time.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines juicy chicken breasts simmered in a flavorful blend of low-sodium soy sauce and honey, creating a sticky glaze that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re a home cook looking to spice up your routine or someone wanting to avoid yet another fast food run, this easy recipe is sure to impress, making dinner feel special without the fuss. So, grab your slow cooker, and let’s embark on a delicious journey together!

Why love Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken?

Simplicity made delicious: Just toss ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day!

Irresistible flavor awaits: The harmonious blend of garlic, ginger, and honey creates a sweet-savory glaze that everyone will love.

Family-friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring an enjoyable dinner experience for everyone.

Time-saving: Spend less time in the kitchen and more time with loved ones; this recipe cooks itself!

Versatile options: Feel free to add veggies or swap chicken for thighs to customize this dish to your liking.

Meal prep friendly: Make enough for leftovers; it stores well in the fridge or freezer, ready for your busy week ahead.

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Ingredients

• Get ready to make a scrumptious meal!

For the Chicken

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – This is the main protein source, and chicken thighs can be substituted for a richer flavor.

For the Sauce

Garlic (2 tsp, minced) – Provides aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is preferred for the best taste.
Ginger (2 tsp, minced) – Adds warmth and spice; ground ginger can be used at 1/3 the quantity if fresh isn’t available.
Honey (1/4 cup) – Sweetens the sauce and adds a sticky texture; maple syrup works as a vegan substitute.
Brown Sugar (3 tbsp) – Enhances sweetness and depth; consider coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
Low Sodium Soy Sauce (1/2 cup) – Vital for authentic teriyaki flavor with less salt; coconut aminos are great for a gluten-free choice.
Toasted Sesame Oil (2 tsp) – Adds a nutty aroma; regular sesame oil is a suitable alternative.
Rice Vinegar (2 tbsp) – Provides acidity to balance flavors; apple cider vinegar can be a great swap if rice vinegar is unavailable.
Cold Water (1/4 cup) – Necessary for mixing with cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Cornstarch (2 tbsp) – Thickens the sauce; arrowroot powder can be used as a substitute.

For Garnishing

Sesame Seeds (1 tbsp) – Adds a delightful crunch; optional for those who prefer a smoother dish.
Sliced Green Onions (2 tbsp) – Provides a fresh finish and color; feel free to omit if desired.

How to Make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Prep Chicken: Begin by placing the boneless skinless chicken breasts into your slow cooker. Make sure they are spread out evenly for thorough cooking.
Make Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, minced ginger, honey, brown sugar, low sodium soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Whisk until well blended and the sugars dissolve.
Combine: Pour the sauce mixture generously over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring each piece is coated in that wonderful garlicky, sweet marinade.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 5-6 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shredded when done.
Shred Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the sauce for extra flavor.
Thicken Sauce: Strain the liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan. Simmer it over medium heat, then mix the cornstarch with cold water. Whisk this mixture into the saucepan and cook until thickened to your liking.
Finish Dish: Pour the thickened sauce over the shredded chicken in the slow cooker. Toss to coat, then garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Optional: Serve with steamed rice or lettuce wraps for a delightful meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Timing Matters: Adjust cooking times based on your slow cooker’s settings; always check for tender chicken to avoid dryness.
Sauce Tasting: Always taste the sauce before serving; you may need to adjust sweetness or saltiness according to your preference.
Veggie Addition: To keep veggies crisp, add them in the last hour of cooking; broccoli and bell peppers work wonderfully.
Shredding Technique: For the best texture, shred chicken while the sauce thickens on the stove; this ensures maximum flavor absorption.
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container; it keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Tips: To enjoy later, freeze in individual portions; simply reheat in the microwave for a quick, delicious meal.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken?

Imagine a dinner table where each dish beautifully complements the delectable flavors of your teriyaki chicken, creating a meal that feels both special and satisfying.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, fragrant texture of jasmine rice absorbs the savory sauce, making each bite utterly blissful. Paired with teriyaki chicken, it creates a classic Asian-inspired meal that’s hard to resist.
Roasted Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds a delightful crunch and a splash of color. The slight bitterness of roasted broccoli balances the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce beautifully, enhancing the overall experience.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in a light vinaigrette cleanses the palate. This adds a crisp, cool contrast to the warm, sticky chicken, making each forkful refreshing and vibrant.
Quinoa: Try fluffy quinoa as an alternative to rice! It’s packed with protein and offers a nutty flavor that pairs well with the teriyaki chicken, providing a wholesome, nutritious base.
Sesame Noodles: Tossed in a sesame soy dressing, these noodles are a flavorful accompaniment that echoes the teriyaki flavors while adding a delightful chew to your plate.
Miso Soup: Start the meal with a warm bowl of miso soup. Its umami-rich broth and delicate tofu add a comforting touch that sets the stage perfectly for your main dish.
Fruit Salad: For dessert, consider a light fruit salad featuring pineapple, mango, and kiwi. Their sweetness complements the teriyaki chicken’s flavor and provides a refreshing end to your meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the sliced chicken breasts and the sauce in your slow cooker. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in and set it to HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 5-6 hours. For best quality, refrigerate the components in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. If you’re looking to prep even more, this dish can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days after cooking. Just warm it through before serving and enjoy that delicious, homemade taste with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed for moisture.

Leftovers Tip: Enjoy the flexibility of having leftover Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken ready for busy weeknights!

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Variations

Customize your Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken with these delightful twists that unleash your creativity in the kitchen!

Chicken Thighs: Swap out chicken breasts for thighs to enjoy a richer, juicier flavor that adds depth to your dish.
Veggie Medley: Toss in vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas during the last hour for a vibrant and nutritious touch.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for a fiery twist that awakens your taste buds.
Pineapple Love: Incorporate chunks of fresh or canned pineapple for a tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory teriyaki.
Ginger Boost: Double the ginger for an extra punch of warmth and spice that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Option: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos to create a gluten-free version that maintains the dish’s distinctive teriyaki essence.
Citrus Zest: Add a squeeze of fresh lime or orange juice at the end for a zesty brightness that balances the flavors wonderfully.
Nutty Twist: Sprinkle in some chopped cashews or almonds at the end for a satisfying crunch and an added layer of texture.

Embrace the opportunity to make this dish your own, creating a truly memorable meal every time!

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the perfect chicken for Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken?
For the best results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean protein source. However, substituting with chicken thighs can introduce a richer flavor and juicier texture, which many people find delightful. Always look for chicken that’s firm and pink without any dark spots to ensure freshness.

How should I store leftovers from the Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken?
You can store any leftover portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing, which helps maintain its delicious flavor. If you have plenty of leftovers, consider freezing them—just pack them securely in freezer bags or airtight containers to avoid freezer burn.

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! Freeze the chicken in portion-sized amounts to make reheating easier. Simply pour it into freezer bags, press out the air, and seal tightly. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick meal.

What should I do if my teriyaki sauce is too thin after cooking?
If you find that your sauce hasn’t thickened as you hoped, no worries! Pour the liquid into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Then, mix cornstarch with a little cold water to make a slurry. Gradually whisk this mixture into the simmering sauce until it reaches your desired thickness. Cook it for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! For a lower sodium option, be sure to use low-sodium soy sauce, and those looking for gluten-free choices can switch it out with coconut aminos. If allergies are a concern, feel free to omit sesame seeds and green onions from the garnish. Always read labels and consider personal dietary needs to ensure a safe and enjoyable meal for everyone.

How long can I keep the Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken in the fridge or freezer?
The Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days, while in the freezer, it can be stored for around 3 months. Just make sure to use airtight packaging to maintain its wonderful flavor and avoid any freezer burn!