The aroma of slow-cooked teriyaki chicken, gently simmering in your crock pot, is pure comfort food magic. This recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken infused with a rich, sweet, and savory teriyaki glaze, all with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly easy to make.
What Makes This Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe So Easy?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You simply toss the chicken with a flavorful teriyaki marinade, pop it in the slow cooker, and let it do the work. No need for constant stirring or monitoring; the crock pot handles everything, allowing you to focus on other tasks. The low and slow cooking method ensures incredibly tender and juicy chicken every time.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (or a mix!)
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade – see variations below)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening the sauce, optional)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
Instructions:
- Combine the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), cornstarch (if using), ginger, and garlic.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
- Slow cook: Place the marinated chicken in your slow cooker. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken.
- Cook on low: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Thicken the sauce (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and set aside. Bring the remaining sauce to a simmer on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens to your desired consistency. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) to achieve a thicker sauce.
- Serve: Shred the chicken and return it to the slow cooker to coat it with the sauce. Serve over rice, noodles, or quinoa. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Add vegetables: Toss in some broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, or carrots during the last hour of cooking for a complete meal.
- Pineapple teriyaki: Add 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple to the marinade for a sweeter and tangier flavor.
- Homemade teriyaki sauce: For a more authentic flavor, try making your own teriyaki sauce using soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, and ginger. Numerous recipes are readily available online.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What to Serve with Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?
This versatile dish pairs perfectly with various sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Rice: Steamed white rice, brown rice, or even coconut rice.
- Noodles: Stir-fried noodles or ramen.
- Quinoa: A healthy and flavorful grain option.
- Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or a simple salad.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
While not recommended for optimal flavor and texture, you can use frozen chicken. Just add an extra hour or two to the cooking time. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked through before serving.
Is this recipe healthy?
This recipe can be a healthy option depending on the ingredients you use. Using low-sodium soy sauce and opting for lean chicken breasts will keep the sodium and fat content lower. Adding vegetables will increase the nutritional value.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker. This will prevent the chicken from cooking evenly.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You might want to add more honey or soy sauce depending on your preference.
Enjoy your delicious and easy crock pot teriyaki chicken!
