Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a simple, mouth-watering meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, you’ve come to the right place. Our Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is tender, juicy, and bursting with the sweet and savory flavors of homemade teriyaki sauce. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time, so you can spend more time doing what you love. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
- Effortless Cooking: Simply throw the ingredients in the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and flavor without the added fat.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
- Kid-Friendly: The sweet and savory flavors are a hit with kids.
- Versatile: Pair it with rice, noodles, or veggies for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
Step 2: Making the Teriyaki Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
Step 3: Slow Cooking
Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure they are fully coated. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Step 4: Thickening the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the water and cornstarch until smooth. Remove the chicken from the crockpot, and stir the cornstarch mixture into the sauce. Let it cook on high for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
Step 5: Serving
Slice or shred the chicken, return it to the crockpot, and stir to coat with the sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute tamari for soy sauce. Learn more about gluten-free options.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your taste.
- Double the recipe for larger gatherings or weekly meal prep.
Variations
- Spicy Teriyaki: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Vegetable Teriyaki: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
- Teriyaki Chicken Bowls: Serve over a bed of steamed rice with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of extra sauce.
Required Equipment
- Crockpot
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Storage Instructions
Store leftover teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Suggested Pairings
This Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a lighter option.
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce overnight before cooking. Learn more about marinating.
- If you prefer thicker sauce, add an additional tablespoon of cornstarch.
- Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor.
FAQ
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs work great and tend to be juicier.
- Is it okay to cook on high the entire time? Yes, but the chicken might not be as tender as when cooked on low.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Absolutely, you can assemble the ingredients in the crockpot and refrigerate overnight.