There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken. It’s a dish that requires minimal prep but delivers big on flavor. The tender chicken, infused with savory and sweet teriyaki sauce, makes for a delightful meal that can be enjoyed over rice, in wraps, or even on its own. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a wholesome dish that the whole family will love. So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will soon become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

Top Reasons to Make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Effortless Cooking: Just toss everything into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it!
Flavorful Meal: The combination of teriyaki sauce, garlic, and brown sugar creates a perfectly balanced sweet and savory flavor.
Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is perfect for batch cooking, allowing you to enjoy leftovers all week long.
Customizable: You can add your favorite veggies or adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Kid-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet delicious, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredient Breakdown

3 chicken breasts (skinless and boneless): The star of the dish, providing a lean source of protein that cooks beautifully in the slow cooker.
1 cup chicken broth (low sodium): This adds moisture and depth of flavor without overwhelming the dish with salt.
1 cup teriyaki sauce: The key ingredient that brings the sweet and savory notes to the chicken.
1/2 cup brown sugar: This enhances the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce, creating that irresistible glaze.
5 garlic cloves (minced): Fresh garlic adds aromatic flavor that complements the sweetness of the sauce.
1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium): Used to deepen the umami flavor of the dish without excessive salt.
1 teaspoon sesame oil: This adds a nutty aroma and richness to the overall flavor profile.
Sesame seeds (for garnish): A finishing touch that adds texture and a slight crunch to the dish.

Cook’s Kit

Slow Cooker: Essential for this recipe, allowing for hands-off cooking and tender chicken.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurement.
Knife and Cutting Board: For mincing garlic and portioning chicken if needed.
Serving Spoon: To serve your delicious teriyaki chicken.
Storage Containers: For any leftovers you might want to save for later.

Build Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. This will help ensure that your Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is tender and not greasy.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Stir until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is well blended.

Step 3: Place in the Slow Cooker

Lay the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring that it is well coated.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and can be easily shredded with a fork.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce to coat it well.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve your Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken over steamed rice or in lettuce wraps. Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

Chickpeas or Tofu: Substitute chicken with canned chickpeas or firm tofu for a plant-based protein option.
Vegetable Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegan.
Maple Syrup: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a natural sweetener alternative.
Liquid Aminos: Replace soy sauce with liquid aminos for a gluten-free option.

Notes on Ingredients

When selecting your teriyaki sauce, look for brands that use natural ingredients without preservatives. Low sodium soy sauce is recommended to keep the dish balanced in flavor. If you prefer an extra kick, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place the shredded chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container, and it will last up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

Common Qs About Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Using frozen chicken breasts is not recommended for slow cooking, as they may not reach the safe cooking temperature in the recommended time. It’s best to thaw them first before cooking.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Add it to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking and stir well.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken?

This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a light and refreshing option.

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Before You Go

Making Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is not only simple but also a delightful cooking experience that fills your home with enticing aromas. By following these straightforward steps, you can effortlessly whip up a meal that will satisfy your cravings and impress your loved ones. The versatility of this dish allows for endless variations, making it a great addition to any meal plan.

Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and don’t forget to share your creations! Happy cooking!