Tender, juicy teriyaki chicken breast, cooked low and slow in your trusty crock pot? Yes, please! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and flavorful meal with minimal effort. Forget about dry, overcooked chicken – this method guarantees succulent results every time. Let's dive into the details of achieving perfectly cooked crock pot teriyaki chicken breast.
What Makes this Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken Breast Recipe So Good?
This recipe excels because it leverages the slow cooking power of the crock pot to infuse the chicken breast with rich teriyaki flavor. The slow cooking process breaks down the tough muscle fibers, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy chicken, even with lean breast meat. This method also minimizes the risk of overcooking and drying out the chicken, a common problem with other cooking methods. Furthermore, it's incredibly convenient – simply throw the ingredients in, set it, and forget it until dinnertime!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5-2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose chicken breasts that are relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce: Your favorite brand will do! Look for a sauce with a good balance of sweet and savory flavors.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred): Adds depth of flavor and enhances the teriyaki.
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar: Balances the saltiness and adds sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional): Helps thicken the sauce for a richer, stickier glaze.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional): Adds a nutty aroma and subtle flavor.
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional): Enhances the savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional): Adds a subtle spicy warmth.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Combine the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), cornstarch (if using), sesame oil (if using), garlic (if using), and ginger (if using).
- Pour Over Chicken: Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are mostly submerged.
- Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Serve the chicken over rice, quinoa, noodles, or alongside your favorite vegetables. You can also shred the chicken and use it in tacos, salads, or sandwiches.
How Long Does it Take to Cook Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?
The cooking time for crock pot teriyaki chicken depends on the size of your chicken breasts and the setting you use on your slow cooker. Generally, cooking on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours is sufficient. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breast in My Crock Pot?
While it's generally recommended to use thawed chicken for optimal cooking results, you can use frozen chicken breasts in your slow cooker. However, you will need to add 1-2 hours to the cooking time, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked through. It's always best to err on the side of caution and check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
What to Serve with Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken Breast?
The possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas:
- Rice: A classic pairing for teriyaki chicken.
- Noodles: Udon noodles or ramen are excellent choices.
- Quinoa: A healthy and flavorful alternative to rice.
- Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus complement the chicken beautifully.
- Salad: A refreshing side salad can balance the richness of the teriyaki sauce.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Allow enough space for the sauce to circulate around the chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, use a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with a little cold water before adding to the sauce).
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less soy sauce, honey, or other spices to suit your preferences.
This simple yet flavorful crock pot teriyaki chicken breast recipe is sure to become a weeknight staple. Enjoy!
