Introduction
Do you love sweet and savory flavors? Looking for an easy meal you can just toss in the slow cooker and forget about? If yes, this Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken recipe is perfect for you! This dish is full of flavor, super simple to make, and great for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
The chicken turns tender and juicy as it soaks up the delicious teriyaki sauce. Plus, you only need a few ingredients to make it. No need to spend hours in the kitchen! Let’s dive into how to make this yummy dish that your whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients – Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
Here are the simple ingredients you need for this crock pot recipe:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (you can also use thighs if you like)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (for topping, optional)
- Cooked rice (to serve)
Step by Step Process – Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken
Let’s break down the steps so they’re easy to follow.
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine:
- Soy sauce
- Honey
- Vinegar
- Chopped onion
- Garlic
- Ginger
Stir well until everything is mixed.
Step 2: Place Chicken in Crock Pot
Put the raw chicken breasts (or thighs) in the bottom of your crock pot.
Step 3: Pour the Sauce
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, making sure it’s all covered.
Step 4: Cook on Low or High
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours,
OR - Cook on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours
Make sure the chicken is fully cooked and easy to shred.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the crock pot and shred it using two forks.
To thicken the sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water.
- Pour this into the crock pot sauce.
- Stir and cook on HIGH for another 15–20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Put the shredded chicken back into the crock pot and stir it with the thickened sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the teriyaki chicken over warm white or brown rice. Top with sesame seeds and green onions if you like!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Sugars | 18g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 850mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. But make sure to cook it longer and check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
2. Can I cook it overnight?
It’s best to cook it during the day and not overnight unless you’re using a crock pot with a timer. Overcooked chicken can get dry.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook it, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.
4. Can I add vegetables?
Sure! Add bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli during the last hour of cooking to keep them from getting too mushy.
5. What can I serve it with besides rice?
You can serve it with noodles, quinoa, steamed veggies, or even in a wrap!
Final Thoughts
Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is one of those recipes that makes cooking feel easy and fun. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you get a tasty, homemade meal that feels like takeout — without the extra cost or effort.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping meals ahead of time, this dish is a keeper. It’s sweet, savory, and full of comforting flavors. Plus, your slow cooker does most of the work! Give it a try, and you’ll see why this is a favorite in many homes. Happy cooking!
