Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

This easy Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is a weeknight favorite that brings bold flavors to your table with minimal effort. In just 5 minutes of prep, you can set the stage for a delicious meal that will impress your family or guests. Perfect for busy schedules, this dish is versatile enough for meal prep, family dinners, or even special occasions. Enjoy tender chicken simmered in a savory-sweet teriyaki sauce, making it an unbeatable option for any Asian-inspired feast.

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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 Sauce:
• To Thicken:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
• Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
• Step 2: Combine Ingredients
• Step 3: Add Chicken Breasts
• Step 4: Cook the Chicken
• Step 5: Shred the Chicken
• Step 6: Strain Cooking Liquid
• Step 7: Thicken Sauce
• Step 8: Combine Sauce with Chicken
• Step 9: Serve
• How to Serve Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
• Over Steamed Rice
• In Lettuce Wraps
• With Stir-Fried Vegetables
• On a Bun
• In a Rice Bowl
• As Part of a Salad
• 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
• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?
• How do I make my Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken gluten-free?
• Can I add vegetables to my Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?
• What sides pair well with Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With only 5 minutes needed to prepare, this dish is ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavor-Packed: The homemade teriyaki sauce combines sweetness and savoriness for a mouth-watering experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice, alongside stir-fried veggies, or in salads for a complete meal.
• Easily Shredded Chicken: The slow cooking process ensures the chicken is tender and easy to shred.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken easier and more enjoyable. With just a few essential items, you’ll be set to create this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Whisk
• Fine mesh sieve
• Saucepan
• Forks (for shredding)

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking while ensuring the chicken remains juicy and tender.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly for an even sauce.
• Fine mesh sieve: Strains the sauce perfectly, ensuring a smooth texture without lumps.

Ingredients

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

To Thicken:

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon cool water

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Lightly grease the bowl of a large slow cooker. This step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In the slow cooker, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, mirin, powdered ginger, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and sesame oil. Do not add the cornstarch and water yet.

Step 3: Add Chicken Breasts

Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker. Turn them to coat well in the sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. The chicken should be tender enough to shred easily.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Set aside and keep warm by covering it.

Step 6: Strain Cooking Liquid

Strain the cooking liquid through a fine mesh sieve into a saucepan to remove any solids.

Step 7: Thicken Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch with cool water to make a slurry. Whisk it into the strained sauce in the saucepan. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat while stirring constantly until thickened.

Step 8: Combine Sauce with Chicken

Mix half of the thickened sauce into the shredded chicken. Reserve the remaining sauce for serving later.

Step 9: Serve

Serve your delicious Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken over rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables or an Asian-inspired salad. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the teriyaki chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Spoon the shredded chicken into crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option that’s fun to eat.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with colorful stir-fried vegetables for added nutrition and crunch.

On a Bun

• Use the teriyaki chicken as a filling for sandwiches or sliders. Add some slaw for extra texture.

In a Rice Bowl

• Create a rice bowl topped with teriyaki chicken, avocado, and sesame seeds for a satisfying meal.

As Part of a Salad

• Toss the shredded chicken into an Asian-inspired salad with greens, nuts, and vinaigrette dressing for a light meal.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and onions enhance flavor significantly compared to powdered spices.
• Choose high-quality soy sauce: A good soy sauce can make all the difference in taste. Opt for low-sodium if you prefer less salt.
• Monitor cooking time: Cooking on low for 6 hours ensures tender chicken. If using high heat, check after 2.5 hours.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the honey amount based on your sweetness preference; less honey gives it a savory edge.
• Let it rest: Allowing the shredded chicken to rest in the sauce for a few minutes before serving helps it absorb more flavor.
• Experiment with toppings: Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds to add color and texture to your dish.

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Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some tasty options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious and simple side that adds vibrant color and pairs well with teriyaki sauce.
2. Fried Rice: Perfectly seasoned fried rice enhances your meal’s Asian flair while adding heartiness.
3. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame offers protein and fiber, balancing out the sweetness of the teriyaki chicken.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy dressing provides a crisp contrast to the warm chicken.
5. Noodle Salad: Cold noodle salad garnished with veggies presents an excellent texture contrast while being easy to prepare ahead of time.
6. Miso Soup: This comforting soup complements the main dish nicely while adding warmth and umami flavors.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasting brings out their natural sweetness; they pair well with savory teriyaki flavors.
8. Quinoa Pilaf: A healthy grain option that adds protein and fibers while soaking up any extra sauce from the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Greasing Step: Not greasing the slow cooker can cause sticking and make cleanup difficult. Always lightly grease the bowl before adding ingredients.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can lead to dryness. Stick to the recommended cooking times: 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high.
• Ignoring Sauce Measurements: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can alter the sauce’s balance. Measure carefully, especially with soy sauce and honey.
• Not Shredding Properly: Failing to shred the chicken well means it won’t absorb enough flavor from the sauce. Use two forks to shred the chicken thoroughly.
• Omitting Mirin: Neglecting this ingredient will result in a less authentic teriyaki flavor. Always include mirin for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will keep fresh for up to 1 week.

Freezing Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered with foil for 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe dishes for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for extra juiciness and flavor, making them an excellent alternative.

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

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to my Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking enhances both nutrition and flavor.

What sides pair well with Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?

This dish is delicious served with rice, stir-fried vegetables, or an Asian-inspired salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by swapping proteins or adding your favorite vegetables. Try it today and enjoy a flavorful meal that fits perfectly into any busy schedule!