Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

This Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Asia right to your dinner table. With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker works its magic. Ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings, this recipe promises tender, flavorful chicken that pairs beautifully with rice or stir-fried vegetables. Enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 5 minutes of active work, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of honey, soy sauce, and spices creates a savory-sweet flavor that will impress everyone at the table.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve with rice, veggies, or an Asian salad – the possibilities are endless!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or parties; this dish serves up to 8 people.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and lower in fat, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken, gather the essential tools and equipment you’ll need. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Whisk
• Fine mesh strainer
• Medium serving dish
• 4-quart saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for low and slow cooking, ensuring tender chicken infused with teriyaki flavor.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing the sauce ingredients thoroughly to achieve a smooth consistency.
• Fine mesh strainer: Helps to create a silky sauce by removing any solids after cooking.

Ingredients

To make 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: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

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

Step 2: Mix Sauce Ingredients

1. In the prepared slow cooker, add the sauce ingredients in this order:
2. Honey
3. Soy sauce
4. Rice vinegar
5. Mirin
6. Powdered ginger
7. Garlic powder
8. Onion powder
9. Black pepper
10. Sesame oil
11. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined. Do not add the cornstarch and water mixture at this stage!

Step 3: Add Chicken Breasts

1. Place chicken breasts into the slow cooker.
2. Turn them to coat evenly with the sauce.

Step 4: Cook Chicken

1. Cook on low for about 6 hours or high for approximately 3 hours.
2. The chicken should be easily shred with a fork when done.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

1. Remove chicken from the crockpot and place it in a medium serving dish.
2. Use two forks to shred the chicken and cover it to keep warm.

Step 6: Prepare Sauce

1. Set a fine mesh strainer over a saucepan.
2. Carefully pour sauce through the strainer into the saucepan.

Step 7: Thicken Sauce

1. Mix cornstarch in cool water until dissolved.
2. Add this mixture to the strained sauce, stirring until fully incorporated.
3. Bring sauce to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until thickened.

Step 8: Combine Sauces

1. Mix half of the thickened sauce into your shredded chicken.
2. Reserve half of the sauce for serving.

Step 9: Serve

1. Serve your delicious Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken with steamed rice, stir-fried veggies, or your favorite Asian salad for a complete meal!

How to Serve Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Whether you prefer rice, vegetables, or salads, there are countless ways to enjoy this flavorful main course.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious teriyaki sauce.
• Fried Rice: Add some veggies and eggs for a hearty side that complements the flavors.
• Brown Rice: A healthier option that adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture.

With Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick-cook your favorite seasonal veggies for a colorful plate.
• Roasted Broccoli: Simple yet tasty; drizzle with sesame oil for added flavor.
• Asian Slaw: A refreshing crunch with cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing.

With Salads

• Cucumber Salad: Cool and crisp cucumbers tossed in a vinegar-based dressing.
• Miso Salad: Greens topped with miso dressing for a rich umami kick.
• Seaweed Salad: Light and briny seaweed brings balance to the dish.

Save it!

How to Perfect Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken, follow these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will elevate the taste of your dish significantly.
• Marinate the Chicken: Letting the chicken sit in the teriyaki sauce for at least an hour before cooking can deepen the flavors.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it boil longer after adding cornstarch until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu or beef for different variations of teriyaki dishes.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider when serving Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken.

1. Vegetable Fried Rice: Packed with veggies and flavor; this dish is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
2. Sesame Noodles: Cold noodles tossed in sesame oil and soy sauce provide a delightful contrast to warm chicken.
3. Edamame Beans: Steamed and lightly salted, these are a protein-rich snack that pairs well with teriyaki flavors.
4. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed in garlic and sesame oil for a crunchy side that adds freshness to your plate.
5. Potato Wontons: Crispy on the outside with soft potato filling make an excellent appetizer or side dish.
6. Pickled Veggies: A tangy pickled mix can cut through the richness of the teriyaki chicken for balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken can be a breeze, but there are a few pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Greasing Step: Not greasing your slow cooker can lead to sticking and mess. Always grease your crock pot to ensure easy removal of the chicken and sauce.
• Adding Cornstarch Too Early: Adding cornstarch at the beginning can ruin the texture of your sauce. Remember to mix it with water and add it later for a perfect thickening effect.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can dry it out. Stick to the recommended cooking times for juicy, tender chicken that shreds beautifully.
• Not Straining the Sauce: Skipping the straining step can leave unwanted bits in your sauce. Strain it to ensure a smooth, flavorful finish.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Every palate is different! Taste your sauce before mixing it with chicken and adjust seasonings as needed for a personalized flavor.

Save it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label containers with dates for easy reference.

Reheating Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through (about 20 minutes).
• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power in short intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to prevent sticking. Stir 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 cooking on high takes around 3 hours.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time by approximately an hour on low or half an hour on high.

What can I serve with Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?

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

How do I make my teriyaki sauce thicker?

Use cornstarch mixed with cool water added towards the end of cooking. This will help thicken the sauce perfectly!

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken recipe is not only simple but incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sweetness of the sauce. Enjoy this delightful dish any night of the week!