Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

This Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken recipe is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights. With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can create a mouthwatering dish that brings the delicious flavors of teriyaki sauce right to your dinner table. Perfect for family meals or gatherings, this slow cooker teriyaki chicken is not only easy to make but also versatile. Pair it with stir-fried vegetables and fried rice for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 5 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with rice, stir-fried veggies, or even on its own.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and save leftovers for lunch throughout the week.
• Crowd Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are the must-have items for preparing this recipe effectively.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Whisk
• Fine mesh strainer
• 4-quart saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This appliance allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring that your chicken becomes tender and flavorful without constant monitoring.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring an even distribution of flavors in your teriyaki sauce.
• Fine mesh strainer: Using a strainer ensures that your sauce is smooth by removing any lumps or solids before thickening it.

Ingredients

For this delicious Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds chicken breasts
• ½ cup honey
• ¾ cup soy sauce
• 2 Tablespoons rice vinegar
• ¼ cup mirin
• ½ teaspoon powdered ginger
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 Tablespoon cool water

How to Make Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Grease the Slow Cooker

Grease the container of a large slow cooker to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

Add the sauce ingredients in the order listed into the prepared slow cooker. Use a whisk to combine everything thoroughly. Do not add the cornstarch and water mixture at this stage.

Step 3: Add Chicken Breasts

Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Turn them to coat well in the sauce.

Step 4: Cook Chicken

Cook on low for about six hours or on high for three hours. The chicken should be tender enough to shred easily with a fork when done.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Remove the chicken from the crockpot and place it into a medium serving dish. Do not discard the remaining sauce. Shred the chicken using two forks and cover it to keep warm.

Step 6: Strain Sauce

Set a fine mesh strainer over a four-quart saucepan. Carefully pour the remaining sauce through the strainer into the saucepan.

Step 7: Thicken Sauce

Mix cornstarch with cool water in a small bowl until smooth. Add this mixture to the strained sauce and stir until fully incorporated.

Step 8: Cook Sauce Until Thickened

Bring the sauce to a boil over medium-high heat while stirring constantly until it thickens.

Step 9: Combine with Chicken

Mix half of the thickened sauce into the shredded chicken. Reserve the other half for serving later.

Step 10: Serve

Serve your delicious Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken alongside rice, stir-fried veggies, or your favorite Asian salad! Enjoy!

How to Serve Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
• Fried Rice: Add vegetables and scrambled eggs for a heartier option.
• Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that adds fiber to your meal.

With Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick stir-fry with bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies with olive oil and roast until tender for a sweet contrast.

In a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with shredded chicken and veggies.
• Tortilla Wraps: Roll the teriyaki chicken in tortillas with avocado and greens for a tasty lunch.

As a Salad

• Asian Chicken Salad: Combine shredded chicken with mixed greens, almonds, and sesame dressing for a light meal.
• Coleslaw: Serve alongside coleslaw for added crunch and tanginess.

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How to Perfect Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

To ensure your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will give the sauce a vibrant flavor compared to dried versions.
• Marinate the Chicken: For deeper flavor, let the chicken sit in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer longer after adding cornstarch.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Crock Pot: Cooking in batches can help ensure even cooking if you’re making a larger quantity.
• Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to swap chicken breasts with thighs or even tofu for vegetarian options.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some ideas to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and slightly crunchy, it adds color and nutrients to your plate.
2. Sesame Noodles: Toss noodles in sesame oil and soy sauce for an easy, flavorful side.
3. Fried Rice Balls: Make small balls of fried rice as a fun finger food option with your main dish.
4. Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, it balances the richness of teriyaki chicken.
5. Miso Soup: This warm soup complements Asian flavors while providing comfort on chilly nights.
6. Quinoa Salad: Packed with protein, this dish is healthy and adds variety to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken turns out delicious, it’s important to avoid some common mistakes.

• Skipping the Greasing Step: If you don’t grease the slow cooker, the chicken may stick and tear apart when removed. Always grease the container before adding ingredients.
• Adding Cornstarch Too Early: Adding cornstarch to the sauce at the wrong stage can result in a lumpy texture. Mix it with water separately and add it only after straining the sauce.
• Overcooking Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Not Shredding Properly: Failing to shred the chicken well can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Shred with two forks for consistent texture and taste.
• Using Low-Quality Soy Sauce: Poor quality soy sauce can affect the overall flavor of your dish. Opt for a good quality soy sauce for optimal taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until warm (about 2-3 minutes).
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken.

How long does it take to cook Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?

Cooking on low takes about 6 hours, while high cooking takes around 3 hours.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but increase cooking time by about an hour on low or half an hour on high.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken?

Serve with rice, stir-fried vegetables, or an Asian salad for a complete meal.

Is this teriyaki chicken recipe healthy?

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is relatively healthy with balanced protein and carbs. Adjust honey content for less sweetness if desired.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken recipe is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sauce ingredients to suit your taste. Give this delightful dish a try, and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to your table!