Irresistible Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki Recipe

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Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki is the answer to your weeknight dinner prayers. Imagine tender, juicy chicken bathed in a glossy, sweet-savory sauce that dances on your taste buds like it’s auditioning for a Broadway show. The aroma wafts through your home, creating an atmosphere so inviting that even your sofa might consider joining you at the table.

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Now, let me take you back to a time when I was still figuring out how to impress my guests without burning down the kitchen. I stumbled upon this recipe during a particularly ambitious week of meal prepping. Little did I know, it would become my secret weapon for any occasion, from casual family dinners to last-minute get-togethers with friends. It’s an absolute crowd-pleaser, and honestly, who doesn’t love a dish that practically cooks itself?

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.
  • The sweet and savory glaze perfectly balances each bite, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
  • Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
  • You can easily adapt this recipe using different proteins or vegetables based on what you have at home.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are usually enough for a family meal, but feel free to adjust based on your appetite.

  • Fresh Garlic: Use firm, fresh garlic cloves for a robust flavor that will elevate the entire dish.

For the Sauce:

  • Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce; it lets you control the saltiness while still packing that umami punch.

  • Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and depth to the sauce; light or dark brown sugar works beautifully here.

  • Rice Vinegar: A splash of rice vinegar enhances the overall flavor profile with its subtle tanginess.

  • Sesame Oil: A teaspoon of sesame oil gives your teriyaki an irresistible nutty flavor that’s hard to resist.

  • Cornstarch: This is essential for thickening the sauce; mix it with water before adding it to avoid lumps.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop up some fresh garlic and set it aside because we’re about to get cooking!

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Whisk until everything is well blended into a glorious concoction of flavor.

Step 3: Add Chicken to Slow Cooker

Place the boneless chicken breasts into your slow cooker and pour that beautiful sauce over them. Make sure every piece gets a nice coating; no chicken left behind!

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Set your slow cooker on low heat and let it do its magic for about 6-7 hours. This is where patience pays off—trust me.

Step 5: Thicken It Up

About half an hour before serving, mix cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.

Step 6: Serve It Right

Once cooked through and tender, serve the chicken over steamed rice or noodles. Drizzle extra sauce on top for good measure because life is too short for dry food!

Now you’re ready to enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to impress! Transfer everything onto plates and watch as everyone dives in like it’s their last supper!

You Must Know

  • This slow cooker chicken teriyaki is a game-changer for busy weeknights.
  • With minimal prep, you can savor the rich flavors while your slow cooker does all the work.
  • The sweet and tangy sauce coats the tender chicken, making every bite a delight!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by seasoning your chicken with salt and pepper, then sear it in a hot pan for extra flavor. While that’s happening, combine the teriyaki sauce ingredients in your slow cooker. Add the seared chicken and let it cook to perfection for several hours.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or beef if you’re feeling adventurous. Want more crunch? Toss in some fresh veggies like bell peppers or snap peas near the end of cooking. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding honey or brown sugar. For more inspiration, check out this Honey Mustard Chicken recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To achieve maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight before cooking.
  • Don’t skip searing; it adds depth!
  • Adjust sauce sweetness based on your preference to make it uniquely yours.

Sometimes I think my slow cooker is my best friend. I remember one time when I had guests coming over, and I threw this chicken teriyaki together in mere minutes—everyone thought I was a culinary genius!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki?

To make Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki, you will need boneless chicken thighs or breasts, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition. Serve this dish over rice to soak up the delicious teriyaki sauce. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the sweetness of the sauce!

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki?

Cooking Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki typically takes about 4 to 6 hours on low heat. If you are short on time, you can set your slow cooker to high heat, where it will take about 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shredded when done. Always ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for safe consumption.

Can I make Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki ahead of time! Simply prepare the dish as instructed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. Reheat it thoroughly before serving. This makes it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeknights!

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki?

Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or quinoa. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. fresh salad for summer For an extra touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top just before serving to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Conclusion for Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki:

In summary, Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki is a delicious and easy dish perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy. warm chicken stew recipe Whether served over rice or alongside vegetables, this recipe is both versatile and satisfying. ultimate comfort food side cozy fish soup recipe Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients to make it your own! For more inspiration, check out this Easy Chicken with Cream of Chicken Soup recipe.

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Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki


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  • Author: Amanda
  • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: Serves up to 4 people

Description

Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki is the ultimate weeknight meal that combines tender chicken with a rich, sweet-savory glaze. This effortless recipe is perfect for busy families or spontaneous gatherings, allowing you to enjoy a delicious home-cooked dish without the fuss. The delightful aromas will fill your kitchen and draw everyone to the table. Serve this flavorful dish over rice or noodles for a satisfying dinner that pleases both kids and adults alike.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water

Instructions

  1. Mince the garlic and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and minced garlic; mix until well blended.
  3. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them.
  4. Set the slow cooker on low heat and cook for 6-7 hours.
  5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce.
  6. Once cooked, serve over steamed rice or noodles.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion (113g)
  • Calories: 240
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

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