© Original recipe by Crave & Craft ©
Easy Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Dinner 🐔🍚✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for an effortless dinner that delivers juicy, flavorful chicken without hours of prep, look no further than this Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this slow cooker chicken dish combines savory Asian-inspired flavors with the convenience of a crockpot. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this easy chicken recipe will become a household favorite.
2. Ingredients Needed for Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder (for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
- Cooked rice or steamed vegetables for serving
3. Step-by-step Instructions for Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This flavorful mixture is the base for your slow cooker chicken dish.
Add the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the crockpot. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Cook on Low or High
If you’re in a hurry, cook on high for about 3-4 hours. For a more tender and juicy result, set your crockpot to low and cook for 6-7 hours. The chicken will become wonderfully tender and infused with the sweet and savory sauce.
Thicken the Sauce
About 15 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Pour it into the crockpot and stir well. Cover and cook on high for another 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Serve and Garnish
Shred the chicken slightly with two forks if desired. Serve the delicious Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken over cooked rice or steamed vegetables, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for that authentic touch.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave until hot or warm in a skillet. You can also turn leftovers into stir-fries or sandwiches for varied meals.
5. Serving Suggestions for Your Easy Chicken Recipe
Pair your Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken with steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a classic Asian-inspired meal. For added vegetables, stir-fry broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas and serve alongside the chicken. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of creamy spinach and mushroom pasta or a fresh garden salad.
6. Variations and Substitutions
- Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat.
- For a low-sugar version, replace honey with a sugar-free syrup or a splash of coconut aminos.
- Make it gluten-free by choosing tamari instead of soy sauce.
- For added spice, include crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha in the sauce.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen chicken in this crockpot recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken; however, increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours to ensure it’s thoroughly cooked.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Opt for low-sodium soy sauce, trim excess fat from chicken, and serve with brown rice or quinoa for added fiber. Incorporating more vegetables boosts nutritional value too.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking ranges from 3 to 7 hours, depending on your chosen method and setting.
Can I double or halve the recipe?
Absolutely! Just adjust the ingredients proportionally and ensure your crockpot has sufficient space for the increased amount.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: Perfect for cooking large batches of Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken effortlessly. It ensures even heat distribution and keeps your chicken tender and flavorful.
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: Ideal for preparing side dishes or stir-fries to complement your main course, making your meal prep smoother.
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Try it for crispy vegetables or quick reheating, enhancing your meal with minimal effort.
9. Conclusion
This Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken recipe is a true game-changer for anyone seeking an easy chicken recipe that’s packed with flavor, requires minimal effort, and is perfect for busy schedules. Whether serving it over rice or stirring in vegetables, you’re guaranteed a delightful and satisfying meal every time. Experiment with variations and enjoy your effortless dinner, knowing you’ve mastered a delicious Asian-inspired dish with just a few simple ingredients!
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Easy Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Dinner
Simple and flavorful crockpot teriyaki chicken with minimal effort, cooked until tender and coated in a savory glaze. Serve over rice or with vegetables for an easy dinner.
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Pour over chicken.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until chicken is tender.
- (Optional) Mix cornstarch with a little water and stir into the sauce during the last 15 minutes to thicken.
- Serve chicken over rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Notes
- You can use chicken breasts or thighs; thighs tend to be more tender.
- Adjust honey or soy to taste for sweeter or saltier flavor.
- Serve with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten-free (with gluten-free soy sauce)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken serving with rice
- Calories: 380 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 920 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg