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Effortless Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki: Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal

Tired of expensive takeout, but still craving those sweet and savory Asian flavors? Look no further! This homemade Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki recipe is your answer for a fresh, simple, and perfectly seasoned meal that the entire family will adore. With just a few minutes of hands-on prep, your slow cooker works its magic, transforming tender chicken breasts into a delicious dinner swimming in a luscious, homemade teriyaki sauce. It’s bursting with tangy-sweet goodness and is the ideal solution for even your busiest weeknights.

Why Homemade Teriyaki Sauce is Best

Forget store-bought bottles! This slow cooker chicken is drenched in a sweet, sticky, and incredibly savory homemade teriyaki sauce that boasts fresh, vibrant flavors you simply won’t find off the shelf. Crafting your own sauce means you control every ingredient, ensuring a perfect balance and avoiding unnecessary additives. Imagine rich brown sugar and golden honey providing that essential sweetness, while low-sodium soy sauce delivers deep umami. Fresh ginger and garlic add a spicy brightness and aromatic depth that truly elevates the dish. The result? Absolutely irresistible teriyaki chicken that tastes far superior to anything pre-made. Once you try this simple method, you’ll wonder why you ever bought a bottle!

The Magic of Slow Cooker Cooking

There’s nothing quite like the slow cooker to make dinner practically effortless. It’s a true kitchen hero, allowing you to “dump and go,” then return hours later to a perfectly cooked, easy slow cooker meal. This appliance is specifically designed to handle raw meats and even frozen chicken, cooking them slowly and gently. The extended cooking time and the steam created within the tightly covered container ensure food safety by destroying bacteria, making slow cooking a reliably safe and convenient method for preparing meals. Plus, on hot days, it keeps your kitchen cool – a major bonus!

Versatile Meals and Delicious Leftovers

Not only is this teriyaki chicken a fantastic main course, but it also makes repurposing leftovers an absolute breeze. Cook once, enjoy multiple times! Leftover slow cooker chicken teriyaki is incredibly versatile. Serve it hot or cold on soft slider buns for a quick sandwich, tuck it into warm tortillas for a unique taco night, or wrap it in large lettuce leaves for a lighter, low-carb option. It’s also fantastic shredded over a fresh green salad or mixed with stir-fried vegetables for a quick power bowl. The sweet and savory flavors hold up beautifully, ensuring your next meal is just as delightful as the first.

Looking for other simple and delicious slow cooker recipes? Don’t miss my Slow Cooker Dr. Pepper BBQ Ribs for a tangy-sweet treat, or my Crockpot Rotisserie Chicken for an unbelievably juicy and flavorful roasted chicken experience.

Slow Cooker Meals: A Summertime Essential

When the temperatures soar outside – and goodness, hasn’t it been *hot* lately? – an easy slow cooker recipe becomes an absolute lifesaver. Who wants to stand over a hot stove or oven for an extended period, preparing a heavy meal when it’s sweltering outdoors? The beauty of the slow cooker is that it keeps the heat contained, allowing you to prepare a hearty and satisfying dish without turning your kitchen into a sauna.

This Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken recipe is the perfect light-yet-filling meal for summertime, though it’s equally fantastic any time of year. It’s a family favorite that requires minimal effort from you, with your slow cooker handling almost all the work in just a few hours. For a truly complete meal, simply serve this tender teriyaki chicken over a fluffy bed of rice and, for an incredibly easy and flavorful side, open a jar of Paisley Farm Five Bean Salad. Dinner is served, effortlessly and deliciously!

PAISLEY FARM FIVE BEAN SALAD: Your Go-To Side

Busy nights demand simple meal solutions, and what could be easier or more convenient than twisting the lid off a jar of delicious bean salad? Paisley Farm Five Bean Salad is not just easy; it’s a nutritious, flavorful side dish packed with wholesome ingredients. It’s a vibrant mix of beans, perfectly seasoned, offering a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that complements almost any meal.

Jars of Paisley Farm Five Bean Salad and other Paisley Farm products are a consistent staple in our pantry. Their versatility is unmatched. Whether we simply serve it as a quick and tasty side dish to our main course, or incorporate it into more elaborate recipes like this Five Bean Ground Beef & Noodle Skillet, this Five Bean Ham & Rice Salad, or even appetizers such as this Creamy Mexican Hot Taco Dip, it’s been a lifesaver time and again when I find myself asking, “What should I make for dinner?” A well-stocked pantry, especially with reliable and tasty items like Paisley Farm products, is always a good idea, and it truly comes in handy when you’re pinched for time and need a quick, delicious solution.

INGREDIENTS FOR CROCKPOT CHICKEN TERIYAKI

This recipe prides itself on using a handful of simple, common ingredients that you likely already have on hand in your refrigerator or pantry. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfectly balanced sweet, savory, and tangy teriyaki sauce. For the precise measurements, make sure to scroll down to the detailed recipe card.

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: These are ideal for absorbing the teriyaki flavor and cooking to tender perfection. If you prefer dark meat or a slightly richer flavor, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be a wonderful substitute and are often more economical.
• Brown Sugar and Honey: These are the essential sweet elements that balance the saltiness of the soy sauce and give the teriyaki its characteristic glaze. Brown sugar adds a deeper, molasses-like sweetness, while honey contributes a delicate floral note and helps create that sticky texture.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce: This is the cornerstone of any teriyaki sauce, providing that rich, umami depth. Opting for low-sodium soy sauce is crucial to prevent the dish from becoming overly salty, allowing you to better control the overall flavor profile.
• Rice Wine Vinegar: A touch of acidity is vital to cut through the richness and sweetness of the sauce, adding a bright, tangy counterpoint. Rice wine vinegar offers a mild, slightly sweet acidity. If unavailable, white vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used in a pinch, though they will impart a slightly different flavor.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with a warm, pungent, and indispensable savory flavor that forms the aromatic base of the teriyaki.
• Ginger Puree: Ginger brings a unique spicy brightness and zesty warmth to the sauce. Ginger puree is convenient, but freshly grated ginger root can be used for an even more intense, aromatic punch.
• Pepper: A dash of black pepper enhances and punches up all the other flavors, adding a subtle warmth and complexity.
• Cornstarch: This acts as a thickening agent. When mixed with water to form a smooth cornstarch slurry and then stirred into the simmering sauce, it creates that desired glossy, thick consistency that clings beautifully to the chicken.
• Water: Used to create the cornstarch slurry.
• Scallions and Toasted Sesame Seeds: These are optional but highly recommended for garnish. Scallions (green onions) provide a fresh, mild oniony bite and vibrant color, while toasted sesame seeds add a nutty crunch and a classic Asian finishing touch.

HOW TO MAKE CROCK POT CHICKEN TERIYAKI

My recipe for chicken teriyaki in a slow cooker is incredibly straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy schedules. Here’s a detailed look at the simple steps to achieve this flavorful meal. For even more precise instructions and measurements, please refer to the complete recipe card below.

WHISK THE SAUCE

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, low-sodium soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, minced garlic, ginger puree (or fresh grated ginger), and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined and the sugars have dissolved, creating your aromatic homemade teriyaki sauce.

PREP THE SLOW COOKER

Place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly in the bottom of your slow cooker. Ensure they lay in a single layer if possible for even cooking.

POUR THE SAUCE

Carefully pour the whisked teriyaki sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is well coated. The sauce will infuse the chicken with incredible flavor as it cooks.

COOK TO PERFECTION

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the LOW setting for 4-5 hours. Cooking on low ensures the chicken remains incredibly tender and juicy, soaking up all the delicious sauce.

CUT OR SHRED THE CHICKEN

Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot. At this point, you can either cube it into bite-sized pieces with a sharp knife or shred it using two forks. *Return the prepared chicken back into the slow cooker with the sauce.

TIP: If you allow the chicken to cook for the longer end of the suggested time (closer to 5 hours), it will be fall-apart tender and perfect for easy shredding. If you prefer firmer, cubed chicken, cook it for the shorter duration (around 4 hours). In both cases, always ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) for food safety.

MIX THE SLURRY

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until the mixture is completely smooth and free of any lumps. This cornstarch slurry is key to thickening your sauce.

WARM THE SAUCE

Transfer the liquid sauce from the slow cooker to a medium-sized saucepan on your stovetop. Warm it over medium heat, bringing it to a gentle simmer.

STIR AND THICKEN

Gradually whisk the cornstarch mixture into the simmering sauce in the saucepan. Continue to stir consistently as the sauce heats through and begins to thicken to your desired consistency. It should become glossy and coat the back of a spoon.

FINISH THE DISH

Pour the thickened teriyaki sauce back over the chicken in the slow cooker and stir gently to combine, ensuring all the chicken pieces are coated in the rich, sticky sauce.

SERVE AND ENJOY

Keep the teriyaki chicken warm in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting until you’re ready to serve. Dish it out generously over a bed of fluffy rice, then garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds for an authentic finish and extra flavor.

Tip: For the ultimate convenience in meal prep, especially when you’re short on time, try using one of the steamer packets of rice readily available at your local grocery store. They come in varieties like long grain white rice (which I often use), Basmati, and Jasmine rice. They cook in minutes, making easy meal prep at its finest, my friends!

Love it? Pin it!

Don’t let this incredible slow cooker teriyaki chicken recipe get lost! Pin it to your favorite recipe board on Pinterest before you go, so you can easily find it for your next easy weeknight dinner!

Tips, Twists & Ideas for Your Chicken Teriyaki

The classic Asian-inspired flavors in this slow cooker Chicken Teriyaki recipe make it incredibly versatile and perfect for pairing with a wide array of side dishes and for adapting to different tastes. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Add More Vegetables:

Easily transform this into a heartier meal by making chicken teriyaki with vegetables. Simply double the sauce recipe and add your favorite veggies directly to the slow cooker during the last 1-2 hours of cooking, or stir them in at the end after steaming them separately. Great additions include sliced carrots, broccoli florets, colorful bell peppers (red, yellow, orange), snap peas, or cauliflower florets. They’ll absorb the delicious sauce and add texture and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions:

For a complete and satisfying meal, serve this flavorful chicken over a generous bed of rice. Classic white rice is always a winner, but brown rice offers a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, while cauliflower rice is an excellent low-carb alternative. For a refreshing and healthy side or appetizer, chilled edamame pods pair wonderfully with the teriyaki flavors. And for that authentic restaurant touch, always remember to top your appetizing Asian-infused meal with freshly chopped green onions (scallions) and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.

Customize Your Flavor:

This recipe is also extremely adaptable to switch up depending on your personal tastes and dietary needs:

• Make it Spicy: For those who love a kick, simply add some red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture before cooking, or a dash of sriracha to taste when serving, to create a spicy Teriyaki chicken recipe.
• Hawaiian Teriyaki: For a sweet and tangy tropical twist, add fresh or canned pineapple chunks (drained) to the crockpot along with the chicken. The pineapple juice will meld beautifully with the teriyaki sauce, creating a delicious Hawaiian Teriyaki chicken.
• Gluten-Free Version: To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the low-sodium soy sauce with Tamari sauce (which is naturally gluten-free) and swap the cornstarch for an equal amount of arrowroot powder to thicken the sauce. Always double-check labels of all ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
• Crispy Finish: If you enjoy a slightly caramelized, crispy exterior, after shredding or cubing the chicken and thickening the sauce, you can briefly transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and broil it for a few minutes until lightly browned, then toss with the thickened sauce.

WHAT SHOULD I SERVE WITH CHICKEN TERIYAKI?

If you’re looking for fantastic side dishes that perfectly complement this Asian-inspired main course, I have a few suggestions that will elevate your meal:

• For a delightful seafood pairing, try my Sweet Heat Asian Grilled Shrimp Skewers. The flavors will harmonize beautifully.
• A refreshing contrast comes from my Chinese Chicken Salad, offering crisp textures and a light dressing.
• For another classic Asian staple, my Basic Garlic Fried Rice is a simple yet flavorful accompaniment that goes well with almost any Asian dish.

But truly, if you desire a quick and easy side dish with absolutely no fuss – just open a jar of Paisley Farm Five Bean Salad! The hardest part is simply twisting off the lid! That’s exactly my kind of cooking, especially during the busy week or in the heat of summer!

My friends at Paisley Farm Foods and I share a common vision: bringing you fantastic-tasting homecooked meals that require minimal fuss. We believe in providing wholesome foods that you can feel good about feeding your family and yourself, making mealtime enjoyable and stress-free.

FAQS ABOUT CROCKPOT CHICKEN TERIYAKI

Are teriyaki sauce and teriyaki marinade the same thing? No, while they share similar flavor profiles, teriyaki sauce and teriyaki marinade are not identical. The primary difference lies in their intended use and consistency. A marinade is typically thinner and designed to slowly penetrate and flavor meat over an extended period. A sauce, on the other hand, is generally thicker, used to coat the meat during or after cooking, or as a condiment. This recipe creates a versatile sauce that acts as both a marinade during slow cooking and a glaze for serving.

Can you overcook chicken in the crock pot? Yes, it is entirely possible to overcook chicken in a slow cooker, despite its gentle cooking method! If chicken is cooked for too long or on too high a setting, it can become dry, stringy, and tough, rather than juicy and tender. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are particularly susceptible to this due to their lean nature. It’s best to stick to the recommended cooking times and use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) without exceeding it excessively.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in the slow cooker? While some slow cooker recipes allow for frozen chicken, it is generally recommended to use thawed chicken for this recipe, especially for food safety reasons. Cooking from frozen can keep the chicken in the “danger zone” temperature range for too long, potentially leading to bacterial growth. If you must use frozen, ensure your slow cooker heats quickly and that the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) promptly. Thawing beforehand will also result in a more tender and evenly cooked product.

How long can I store leftover Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki? Leftover slow cooker chicken teriyaki should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can certainly do some prep work in advance! You can whisk together all the sauce ingredients and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker and proceed with the cooking instructions. This can save you valuable time on a busy morning.

OTHER ASIAN INFUSED RECIPES TO ENJOY

If you love the flavors of this Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki, you’ll definitely want to explore these other delicious Asian-inspired recipes that bring a taste of the East to your kitchen:

• Teriyaki Chicken Casserole: A comforting baked version of teriyaki chicken, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
• Chinese Chicken Salad: A light, refreshing, and flavorful salad packed with crunch and a zesty dressing.
• Sticky Asian Meatballs (pictured above): These savory ground pork meatballs are simmered in a sweet and spicy Asian sauce – fantastic as an appetizer or over rice.
• Easy Sweet & Sour Chicken Recipe: A classic takeout favorite made easily at home with succulent chicken and vibrant sauce.
• Asian Slaw: A crunchy, colorful, and zesty slaw that makes an excellent side dish for any Asian meal.
• Ginger Soy Dressing: A versatile and flavorful dressing that can be used on salads, noodles, or as a marinade.
• Hawaiian Pork Sliders: Sweet and savory pulled pork on soft buns, bringing a taste of the islands to your table.

Where to Get Paisley Farm Products

To find where you can pick up delicious Paisley Farm Five Bean Salad, or any of their other fabulous and convenient products, be sure to visit their website. You can also stay up-to-date with great recipes and product news all year long by following Paisley Farm on their social media channels: FaceBook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

For incredible value, keep an eye out for their convenient two-packs available at Sam’s Club and Costco, both in the U.S. and Canada! They are a wonderful deal, so stock up on these pantry essentials while you can!

SEE ALL OF MY PAISLEY FARM RECIPES HERE

Now, let’s get right to this incredibly simple and delicious crock pot chicken teriyaki recipe!