There’s something magical about the aroma of Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki wafting through your home. Imagine tender chunks of chicken simmering away in a sweet and savory sauce as the day unfolds. Picture a world where meal prep is effortless, and your taste buds dance with joy at every bite!
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen chicken for slow cooker chicken teriyaki?
- How long should I cook chicken in the slow cooker?
- What can I serve with slow cooker chicken teriyaki?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience that brings back memories of family gatherings and laughter around the table. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or simply winding down after a long day, Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki has got your back.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This amazing slow cooker chicken teriyaki makes meal prep a breeze while delivering incredible flavors.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what your family loves most.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for busy weekdays or when entertaining friends over the weekend.
You won’t believe how easy this dish is to whip up! Just toss the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you kick back with a good book or binge-watch your favorite show. Plus, the flavor profile is out of this world—sweet, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying!
My kids go wild for this dish; they practically lick their plates clean! Who knew making dinner could feel like winning at life?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose 3-4 breasts based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding; you can always scale up or down!
- Fresh Garlic: Select firm cloves for maximum flavor; don’t be shy—garlic is your friend here!
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: This helps control saltiness; we want flavor without sending our blood pressure soaring!
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and balances the soy sauce beautifully; feel free to adjust according to your sweet tooth.
- Ground Ginger: A little spice goes a long way; fresh ginger is even better if you have it on hand.
- Sesame Oil: For that authentic Asian flair; just a splash elevates the whole dish.
- Green Onions: Use these as a fresh garnish; they add color and crunch to each delicious bite.
- Sesame Seeds: These are optional but add a lovely finishing touch and delightful texture contrast.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Chicken: Begin by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
Create Your Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ground ginger, and sesame oil until well combined. This sauce is where all the magic happens!
Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Place the chicken pieces into the slow cooker and pour your homemade sauce over them. Make sure every piece gets covered because we want flavor in every nook and cranny.
Cook Low and Slow: Set your slow cooker on low for about 6 hours or high for 3 hours. The goal? Tender chicken that falls apart at first glance.
Add Final Touches: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in chopped green onions (reserve some for garnish). If you want that extra crispy finish, switch to high heat.
Serve It Up: When ready to serve, sprinkle sesame seeds on top along with additional green onions. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal that will impress everyone!
Now that you know how to create this heavenly dish step-by-step let me share a little story about my first attempt at making it.
The first time I made Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki was during my son’s birthday party. I thought I’d impress my guests with my culinary skills… but really? I just wanted an excuse not to cook all day! Let’s just say I ended up being crowned “Queen of Quick Dinners” by my friends after they devoured every last morsel.
So why not give this simple yet satisfying dish a try? Your kitchen deserves some love too!
You Must Know
- This slow cooker chicken teriyaki recipe is a lifesaver; it simplifies dinner and brings delicious flavors to your table.
- The sweet and savory aroma wafts through your home, making everyone eager for mealtime.
- It’s perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken in a hot pan for added flavor, then transfer it to the slow cooker with the sauce. This ensures the chicken locks in moisture and flavor before it begins its slow transformation.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein experience. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or broccoli to boost nutrition and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove or microwave until heated through, ensuring not to overcook.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if possible.
- Remember to use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness.
- Always shred chicken after cooking for better sauce absorption and distribution.
Sharing this dish with friends at a potluck made my heart swell when they requested seconds! It’s always nice when your cooking brings people together and creates lasting memories.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for slow cooker chicken teriyaki?
Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.
How long should I cook chicken in the slow cooker?
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender.
What can I serve with slow cooker chicken teriyaki?
Serve it over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in this effortless Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki, featuring tender chicken simmered in a sweet and savory sauce that your family will adore. Perfect for busy nights!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 3 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from chicken breasts and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ground ginger, and sesame oil.
- Place the chicken pieces in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in chopped green onions (reserve some for garnish). For a crispier finish, switch to high heat.
- Serve over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and additional green onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
