Tender, juicy chicken infused with a rich teriyaki glaze – all made effortlessly in your slow cooker! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep time and delivering maximum flavor. Forget complicated recipes and enjoy this easy, crowd-pleasing dish.
What Makes This Teriyaki Chicken Recipe So Easy?
This recipe streamlines the teriyaki chicken process, minimizing hands-on time. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing the chicken to simmer gently in the flavorful sauce, resulting in fall-apart tender meat. We're focusing on simplicity without compromising on taste. No complicated marinades or multiple steps required!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 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 (optional, for thicker sauce)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
- Optional additions: 1/4 cup chopped green onions, sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), cornstarch (if using), sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
- Add Chicken to Slow Cooker: Place the chicken pieces in your slow cooker.
- Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Pour the teriyaki sauce mixture evenly 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 and increase the slow cooker setting to high. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. You can also whisk a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Serve: Serve the teriyaki chicken over rice, noodles, or quinoa. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you'll need to add about 1-2 hours to the cooking time. Make sure the chicken is fully thawed before serving.
How do I make homemade teriyaki sauce?
Making your own teriyaki sauce is easy! Simply combine soy sauce, mirin (sweet rice wine), sugar (brown or white), and sake (optional). Simmer until slightly thickened. You can find many variations online, adjusting the sweetness and saltiness to your taste.
What can I serve with teriyaki chicken?
Teriyaki chicken is incredibly versatile! It's delicious served with steamed rice, noodles (udon, soba, or ramen), quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Serve it with steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a complete meal.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! You can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot. Use the sauté function to brown the chicken (optional), then add the sauce and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release.
Can I use chicken breasts or thighs?
Both chicken breasts and thighs work well in this recipe. Chicken thighs will be more tender and juicy due to their higher fat content.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space for the chicken to cook evenly.
- Use a good quality teriyaki sauce: The better the sauce, the better the flavor!
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Add more honey or soy sauce if needed, to suit your taste preferences.
- Shred the chicken: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken for easier serving.
This easy teriyaki chicken slow cooker recipe is a guaranteed weeknight winner. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the convenience of slow cooking!
