Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is an easy slow cooker dinner featuring tender shredded chicken simmered in a sweet and savory homemade teriyaki sauce. Serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or vegetables for a delicious family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray.
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or HIGH for 2½ to 3 hours.
- Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
- Whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
- Stir the cornstarch slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and toss until fully coated.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- Low-sodium soy sauce helps control the saltiness.
- Fresh ginger gives the best flavor.
- Add the cornstarch slurry near the end for a glossy sauce.
- Shred the chicken while it’s still warm.
- Stir well before serving so the sauce coats every bite.
Variations
- Add broccoli during the last 30 minutes.
- Stir in pineapple chunks for a sweet twist.
- Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use boneless chicken thighs for extra tenderness.
- Mix in sliced bell peppers for added vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice.
- Pair with brown rice or quinoa.
- Spoon over lo mein noodles.
- Serve with steamed broccoli or snap peas.
- Top with extra sesame seeds and green onions.
Tips
- Use fresh garlic and ginger for the richest flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy.
- Let the shredded chicken sit in the sauce for 10 minutes before serving.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings
Serves: 6
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 760mg
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent substitute and become very tender in the slow cooker.
How do I make the teriyaki sauce thicker?
Mix the cornstarch with water first, then stir it into the sauce during the final 15 minutes of cooking until thickened.
Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce?
Yes, but homemade sauce gives fresher flavor and lets you control the sweetness and sodium.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Absolutely. Broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and snap peas all work well. Add quick-cooking vegetables during the last 30 minutes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully for meal prep.
What should I serve with Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken?
It’s delicious over rice, noodles, cauliflower rice, or alongside steamed vegetables and an Asian-style salad.
