This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a simple dish that brings bold, sweet flavors right to your table. Just toss in chicken, teriyaki sauce, and let your slow cooker do the work!
The best part? Your house will smell amazing while it cooks. Plus, you can serve it over rice or noodles for a yummy meal that feels like a treat. Who doesn’t love easy dinner nights? 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are great for their juicy texture, but you can use breasts if you prefer leaner meat. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using tofu or tempeh, which can absorb the flavors beautifully.
Soy Sauce: The backbone of teriyaki sauce, but if you’re watching your sodium intake, try low-sodium soy sauce or tamari as a gluten-free alternative. Coconut aminos is also a delicious, soy-free option!
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and depth. You could substitute with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. Honey also gives a nice touch but may not be suitable for vegan diets.
Rice Vinegar: This ingredient provides tanginess. If you don’t have it, apple cider vinegar can work, just use a little less, as it’s stronger. White vinegar is another substitute, though it has a sharper taste.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh is best for flavor intensity! If you’re in a pinch, use ground ginger and garlic powder. Just remember that dried spices are more concentrated, so use less.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Is Tender and Juicy?
The slow cooker is fantastic for making chicken tender, but there are a few tips to ensure you get the best results. It’s all about the cooking time and method.
- Start with boneless pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t skip shredding the chicken after cooking—this lets it soak up the sauce and flavor.
- Cook on low heat for the best texture. If you’re short on time, high heat is fine, but keep an eye on it.
- Make sure not to overcook; check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to be safe!
How to Make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For the Vegetables and Garnish:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (shiitake or button)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 3 to 7 hours of cooking time. You can choose to cook it on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule. It’s a perfect dish for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Teriyaki Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. This is your delicious teriyaki sauce that will coat the chicken and veggies!
2. Prepare the Chicken in the Slow Cooker:
Place the chicken thighs or breasts into the slow cooker. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well covered.
3. Add the Vegetables:
On top of the chicken, add the sliced red bell pepper and mushrooms. They will soak up the flavors as they cook!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and super tender.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it out and use two forks to shred the meat. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it back into the sauce and veggies for a tasty mix.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your teriyaki chicken over a bed of cooked rice or noodles. To finish, sprinkle the top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as chicken breasts cook faster. They should still be tender and easily shred after about 3-4 hours on high or 5-6 hours on low.
How Can I Thicken the Sauce?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking, stirring to combine. Let it cook until the sauce thickens to your liking.
Can I Make This Recipe with Different Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to swap in other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas, depending on your preference. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking, and add them to the slow cooker about halfway through the cooking time if you prefer them to be less soft.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
