This recipe for crock pot teriyaki chicken is designed to be both incredibly easy and incredibly delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal prep time and delivers tender, flavorful chicken that's perfect for rice bowls, salads, or simply enjoyed on its own. We'll cover everything from ingredient choices to serving suggestions, ensuring you have all the information you need to create a truly memorable meal.
What are the Best Cuts of Chicken for Crock Pot Teriyaki?
The beauty of a slow cooker is its ability to tenderize even tougher cuts of chicken. For teriyaki chicken, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal. They're more forgiving than breasts and less likely to dry out during the long cooking time. However, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can also work well, provided you monitor the cooking time closely to prevent them from becoming overly dry.
How Long Should I Cook Teriyaki Chicken in a Crock Pot?
Cooking time depends on the cut of chicken and the size of your crock pot. Generally, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will cook through in 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. Chicken breasts, being leaner, might require slightly less time – aim for 3-4 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Can I Make Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This is one of the great advantages of slow cooker recipes. You can prepare the chicken and teriyaki sauce the night before and cook it in the morning. The chicken will stay delicious for several days in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prepping. Reheat gently before serving.
What Ingredients Do I Need for Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?
This recipe uses readily available ingredients for a simple yet flavorful teriyaki chicken.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 - 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade – recipe below!)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
- Green onions (for garnish, optional)
Homemade Teriyaki Sauce Recipe (Optional)
For an even more customized flavor, try making your own teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 2 tablespoons sake (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Whisk together all ingredients in a small saucepan.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe Instructions:
- Place chicken in your slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch (if using), ginger, and garlic.
- Pour sauce over the chicken, ensuring it's evenly coated.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours (thighs) or 3-4 hours (breasts), or on high for 2-3 hours (thighs) or 1-2 hours (breasts), or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the chicken with two forks and stir to coat it in the sauce.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired.
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or in a salad.
How to Thicken the Teriyaki Sauce?
If your sauce is too thin after cooking, you can easily thicken it. The easiest method is to add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir well and let it simmer until thickened. You can also reduce the sauce on the stovetop after cooking if you prefer.
What to Serve with Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?
This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Rice: Steamed white rice or brown rice are classic choices.
- Noodles: Stir-fried noodles or ramen are excellent options.
- Quinoa: A healthier alternative to rice.
- Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans complement the savory flavors.
- Salads: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the chicken.
Enjoy your delicious and easy crock pot teriyaki chicken! Remember to always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it's cooked safely.
