Hey y’all! If you’re searching for a delicious, fuss-free meal that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than our Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken. This recipe delivers juicy, flavorful, tender chicken that’s soaked in a savory teriyaki sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy date night at home, this dish will not disappoint. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- It’s incredibly easy to prepare—just set it and forget it!
- The chicken comes out juicy and full of flavor thanks to the slow cooking process.
- Perfect for meal prep and versatile enough to pair with many sides.
- Uses ingredients you likely have on hand, making it hassle-free.
- Great for feeding a crowd or storing leftovers for later.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Directions
Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well combined.
Load the Crockpot
Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of the crockpot. Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken, ensuring they are well coated.
Cook It Slow
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in water. Add this mixture to the crockpot and stir. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce overnight before cooking. Learn more about marinating techniques here.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a less salty dish.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari. Check out gluten-free options here.
Variations
- Spicy Teriyaki: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Pineapple Teriyaki: Mix in 1 cup of pineapple chunks for a sweet twist.
- Vegetable Teriyaki: Add bell peppers and broccoli for extra nutrition.
Required Equipment
- Crockpot
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.
Suggested Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
Pro Tips
- Brown the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot for extra flavor. Find out how here.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey to suit your taste.
- Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best aroma and flavor.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but extend the cooking time by 1-2 hours if using frozen chicken.
- What if I don’t have a crockpot? You can cook it in a slow oven (300°F) using a covered dish.
- How do I know the chicken is done? The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.