Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

This Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken recipe is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights. With just five minutes of prep time, you can create a delicious, flavorful dish that pleases the whole family. The slow cooker does all the work, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen. Perfect for any occasion, this dish pairs beautifully with stir-fried vegetables or fried rice, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Sauce
• For Thickening the Sauce
• How to Make Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
• Step 1: Grease Your Slow Cooker
• Step 2: Combine Sauce Ingredients
• Step 3: Coat Chicken Breasts
• Step 4: Cook Chicken
• Step 5: Remove Chicken & Reserve Sauce
• Step 6: Shred Chicken
• Step 7: Strain Sauce
• Step 8: Thicken Sauce
• Step 9: Bring Sauce to Boil
• Step 10: Combine Sauce & Chicken
• Step 11: Serve
• How to Serve Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
• With Rice
• With Vegetables
• With Noodles
• How to Perfect Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
• Reheating Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?
• How do I make Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken gluten-free?
• Can I use other cuts of chicken?
• What should I serve with Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?
• How do I customize my Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 5 minutes, get everything ready and let your slow cooker work its magic.
• Rich Flavor: A balanced blend of honey, soy sauce, and spices creates a savory-sweet taste that everyone will love.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with rice, stir-fried veggies, or even on its own as a filling meal.
• Make Ahead: Prepare in advance and simply reheat for an easy meal prep solution.

Tools and Preparation

To make this crock pot teriyaki chicken recipe effortless, gather the essential tools beforehand. Having the right equipment streamlines the cooking process and ensures a successful outcome.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Whisk
• Medium serving dish
• Fine mesh strainer
• 4-quart saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool is key for effortlessly cooking your chicken to tender perfection over several hours.
• Whisk: Use this to combine the sauce ingredients smoothly without clumps.
• Fine mesh strainer: This helps to achieve a silky sauce by removing any solids after cooking.

Ingredients

Use these simple ingredients to create your flavorful crock pot teriyaki chicken.

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds chicken breasts

For the Sauce

• ½ cup honey
• ¾ cup soy sauce
• 2 Tablespoons rice vinegar
• ¼ cup mirin
• ½ teaspoon powdered ginger
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For Thickening the Sauce

• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 Tablespoon cool water

How to Make Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious crock pot teriyaki chicken.

Step 1: Grease Your Slow Cooker

Grease the container of a large slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of oil. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Combine Sauce Ingredients

Add all sauce ingredients into the prepared slow cooker container in the order listed. Use a whisk to combine them thoroughly. Remember not to add the cornstarch and water mixture yet!

Step 3: Coat Chicken Breasts

Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Turn them gently to ensure they’re coated evenly with the sauce.

Step 4: Cook Chicken

Set your slow cooker to low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Cook until the chicken is easily shredded with a fork.

Step 5: Remove Chicken & Reserve Sauce

Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and place it in a medium serving dish. Don’t discard the sauce in the slow cooker!

Step 6: Shred Chicken

Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Cover it and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 7: Strain Sauce

Set up a fine mesh strainer over a 4-quart saucepan. Carefully pour the reserved sauce through it into the saucepan to remove any solids.

Step 8: Thicken Sauce

Mix cornstarch with cool water in a small bowl until smooth. Add this mixture to your strained sauce in the saucepan. Stir well until fully incorporated.

Step 9: Bring Sauce to Boil

Heat over medium-high heat until it begins boiling. Cook while stirring constantly until thickened to your desired consistency.

Step 10: Combine Sauce & Chicken

Mix half of this thickened sauce into your shredded chicken for flavor enhancement. Reserve half of it for serving later.

Step 11: Serve

Serve your crock pot teriyaki chicken warm with rice, stir-fried vegetables, or an Asian salad of your choice! Enjoy this delightful meal that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes. Whether you want a simple meal or something a bit more elaborate, there are numerous ways to enjoy this flavorful chicken.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic choice that balances the flavors of the teriyaki sauce.
• Fried Rice: Add vegetables and egg for a hearty, satisfying side.
• Brown Rice: A healthier option that adds a nutty flavor to your meal.

With Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick-cooked veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas complement the chicken nicely.
• Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle with sesame oil for an extra touch of flavor.
• Asian Salad: Crisp greens topped with sesame dressing add freshness to your plate.

With Noodles

• Lo Mein Noodles: Toss cooked noodles with some of the teriyaki sauce for a delicious twist.
• Rice Noodles: Gluten-free and perfect for soaking up the flavors of the chicken.

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How to Perfect Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Achieving the perfect Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and quality chicken enhance the overall taste of your teriyaki chicken.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the honey amount based on your sweetness preference.
• Marinate for Extra Flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken in half of the sauce overnight before cooking.
• Shred Chicken While Warm: Shredding the chicken right after cooking ensures it absorbs more sauce during mixing.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Ensure you cook the sauce until it’s thickened for a better consistency on your chicken.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken experience. Here are some fantastic options that pair well with this dish.

1. Sesame Green Beans: Sauteed green beans topped with sesame seeds add crunch and flavor.
2. Miso Soup: A light soup that complements the rich flavors of teriyaki chicken perfectly.
3. Egg Fried Rice: Fluffy rice stir-fried with eggs and peas creates a delightful combination.
4. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, this salad balances out the richness of the chicken.
5. Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried vegetables add a crispy texture to your meal.
6. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy mash provides a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of teriyaki chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for.

• Skipping the Greasing Step: Not greasing the slow cooker can lead to sticking and make cleanup difficult. Always grease the container before adding ingredients.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can dry it out. Follow the recommended cooking times closely for tender results.
• Forgetting to Strain the Sauce: Leaving impurities in the sauce can affect its texture. Use a fine mesh strainer to ensure a smooth sauce.
• Neglecting to Thicken the Sauce: Skipping the cornstarch step means missing out on a rich sauce. Always remember to thicken your sauce for better flavor and texture.
• Using Low-Quality Soy Sauce: The flavor of your dish relies heavily on soy sauce quality. Choose a good-quality soy sauce for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

• Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is a slow-cooked dish where chicken breasts are simmered in a flavorful teriyaki sauce, resulting in tender and juicy meat.

How do I make Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitute.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can use thighs or drumsticks instead of breasts for a different texture and flavor.

What should I serve with Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, stir-fried vegetables, or an Asian-style salad for a complete meal.

How do I customize my Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during cooking for more nutrition and color.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or serve it with your favorite sides. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without much effort. Give it a try!