Tender, juicy chicken drumsticks glazed with a rich and savory teriyaki sauce – all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. This recipe is a weeknight dinner winner, perfect for busy individuals and families alike. Forget the fuss of stovetop cooking; let your slow cooker work its magic, resulting in fall-off-the-bone chicken that's bursting with flavor. This recipe is not just easy; it's incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences.
Why Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks?
Slow cooking chicken drumsticks in teriyaki sauce offers several advantages:
- Maximum Flavor: The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb the teriyaki flavors deeply, resulting in intensely delicious meat.
- Unmatched Tenderness: Slow cooking ensures incredibly tender chicken, practically falling off the bone.
- Effortless Convenience: Simply toss the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work. Minimal prep and cleanup are required.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. Cook a large batch on the weekend and enjoy delicious meals throughout the week.
What You'll Need:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade – see recipe below!)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Equipment:
- Slow cooker (4-6 quart)
Homemade Teriyaki Sauce (Optional):
If you prefer a homemade teriyaki sauce, here's a simple recipe:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 2 tablespoons sake (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan and whisk until smooth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Let it cool slightly before using.
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the chicken drumsticks, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
- Slow Cook: 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. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- 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. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly until it thickens. Return the chicken to the sauce to coat.
- Serve: Serve the slow cooker teriyaki chicken drumsticks over rice, noodles, or quinoa. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, or toasted slivered almonds for added flavor and visual appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Yes, you can! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will cook faster, so reduce the cooking time accordingly. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
How do I store leftover teriyaki chicken?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
What can I serve with slow cooker teriyaki chicken drumsticks?
This dish pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, quinoa, steamed vegetables, and a side salad.
Can I use different types of chicken?
While drumsticks are ideal due to their size and bone-in nature, you could potentially use other chicken parts, adjusting cooking times accordingly. Breasts might dry out if overcooked.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space for the chicken to cook evenly.
- Taste and adjust: Adjust the seasonings to your liking. You may want to add more honey for extra sweetness or more soy sauce for a saltier flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Enjoy your delicious and effortless slow cooker teriyaki chicken drumsticks! This recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
