There’s a certain kind of joy in coming home after a long day and being greeted by the rich aroma of teriyaki chicken perfuming your kitchen. This Easy Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is my go-to for those busy nights when you want something comforting but don’t have time to slave over the stove. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have succulent chicken enveloped in a glossy, sweet-salty sauce that’ll transport you straight to your favorite Asian takeout joint.
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. Just toss some boneless chicken breasts into your crockpot, pour over the teriyaki sauce, and let the slow cooker do all the work. It’s a phenomenal way to indulge your cravings without the fuss, and you’ll have plenty of time to catch up on your favorite shows or help the kids with homework while dinner simmers to perfection. Whether served over rice or noodles, this dish promises to deliver flavor and satisfaction that’ll leave you asking for seconds—and no one will ever guess it took you hardly any effort to make!
Why is this Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken a game changer?
Effortless Preparation: This dish truly epitomizes no-fuss cooking; just dump and go without the stress.
Savory Satisfaction: The teriyaki sauce brings a delightful balance of sweet and salty flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will love this comforting classic.
Versatile Options: Easily customize with your favorite vegetables or substitute with chicken thighs for added richness.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch for leftovers, ensuring tasty meals through the week with minimal effort—great for busy lifestyles!
Dive into this recipe and discover other easy crockpot delights that will revolutionize your dinner routine!
Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The star of the dish; keeps it lean while soaking in the savory flavors.
• Chicken Thighs – For added moisture and a deeper flavor; try this if you prefer juicy chicken bits.
For the Sauce
• Teriyaki Sauce – Infuses the chicken with that sweet and savory flavor everyone craves.
• Homemade Teriyaki Sauce – Whip up your own mix with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger for a healthier touch.
For Thickening (optional)
• Cornstarch – Helps create a luscious sauce; add a slurry in the last 30 minutes for the best consistency.
For Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Low-Sodium Option – Swap for low-sodium alternatives to keep it heart-healthy.
For Serving
• Cooked Rice or Noodles – The perfect base for your flavorful chicken; any grains or pasta can work wonders!
• Chopped Green Onions – Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your dish.
• Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle on top for that appealing finish; use other seeds or herbs for variety.
How to Make Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
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Arrange Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a single layer in your slow cooker. This ensures even cooking and flavor absorption.
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Add Sauce: Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Season lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the dish’s flavor.
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Thicken Sauce (optional): If you desire a thicker sauce, prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing it with cold water, then add it to the sauce in the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.
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Set Cooking Time: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfect doneness.
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Serve: Once cooked, shred or slice the chicken as desired and serve over rice or noodles. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for that extra flair!
Optional: Drizzle extra teriyaki sauce on top for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
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Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
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Thaw Before Cooking: If using frozen chicken, be prepared to adjust your cooking time to guarantee it cooks evenly and safely.
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For Thicker Sauce: Mix cornstarch with cold water to form a slurry, then add it in the last 20-30 minutes for the best consistency in your Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken.
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Adjust Seasoning: Start with a gentle hand on salt and pepper; you can always add more to suit your personal taste as the dish simmers.
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Explore Substitutions: Chicken thighs offer extra moisture; don’t hesitate to swap for a gluten-free soy sauce or add your favorite vegetables into the mix!
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken and teriyaki sauce up to 24 hours in advance by marinating the chicken in the teriyaki sauce and storing it in the refrigerator. Simply place the marinated chicken in your slow cooker when you’re ready to cook, and enjoy tender chicken just as delicious as when made fresh! If you want a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with cold water and add it in the last 20-30 minutes of cooking. To maintain quality, make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), creating a satisfying meal during those busy weeknights.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow the chicken to cool before sealing to maintain freshness and flavor.
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Freezer: Freeze portions of your Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken in sealed containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Remember to label with dates for easy tracking!
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Thawing: Always thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. This helps preserve the flavors and texture of the dish.
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Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or extra teriyaki sauce to keep the chicken moist.
Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Variations
Feel free to tweak this dish and let your creativity shine through with these delightful spins!
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Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts for thighs to create an even juicier, richer version of this delicious meal.
Enhancing flavor and moisture, it’ll be a family favorite in no time! -
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of regular soy sauce for a seamless gluten-free alternative.
This simple swap ensures everyone, including gluten-sensitive friends, can enjoy the dish. -
Veggie Lovers: Toss in colorful steamed bell peppers or crisp broccoli right before serving for an added crunch.
Not only do they elevate flavor, but they also pack in extra nutrients! -
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for a fiery twist.
This elevates your slow-cooked chicken to a whole new level that spice lovers will adore! -
Pineapple Bliss: Consider tossing in pineapple chunks during cooking for a sweet and tangy Hawaiian-inspired flair.
This luscious addition balances the savory sauce perfectly, creating an exquisite tropical taste! -
Herb Infusion: Chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can be added before serving, enhancing freshness.
These vibrant herbs will awaken flavors and breathe new life into your comforting dish! -
Sweet & Savory Twist: Stir in a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar for a touch more sweetness if desired.
This delightful addition will give you that incredible gourmet flavor without any extra effort! -
Coconut Milk Creaminess: Mix in a splash of coconut milk during the last hour of cooking for a creamy texture and flavor.
It offers a unique twist that embodies warmth, making it perfect for cozy dinners!
What to Serve with Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken?
Create a delightful meal that complements the flavors of your slow-cooked chicken with these enticing side dishes.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Its fluffy texture soaks up the glossy teriyaki sauce, making each bite a flavor explosion.
- Garlicky Stir-Fried Broccoli: The crunch and slight bitterness balance the sweetness of the chicken beautifully, adding color and nutrition.
- Fresh Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing contrast that brings brightness to your plate, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Savory Noodles: Serve your chicken over tender noodles that will carry the rich flavors, making it a comforting, full meal.
- Miso Soup: A warm, umami-packed soup that adds a soothing element to your dinner, making it a well-rounded Asian-inspired feast.
- Peanut Slaw: The crunch of cabbage and the creaminess of the peanut dressing provide a delightful contrast, adding depth to your meal.
- Sangria or Iced Green Tea: These refreshing drinks complement the sweet and salty profile of the chicken while keeping the meal light.
- Mochi Ice Cream: For dessert, these delightful little bites of joy offer a sweet finish that will leave everyone smiling, perfect for a comforting end.
Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
For the best results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, as they cook evenly and absorb flavors beautifully. If you prefer a richer taste, you can opt for chicken thighs, which add moisture and depth to the dish. Just make sure the pieces are roughly the same size for consistent cooking.
How should I store leftover Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken?
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Be sure to let the chicken cool completely before sealing the container to retain its juiciness. This makes it easy to enjoy a quick meal while keeping flavors intact.
Can I freeze Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions of your Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken in sealed containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Just remember to label with the date to help keep track of freshness. For best results, let it cool, then add to bags with as little air as possible before sealing.
What if the teriyaki sauce is too thin?
If you find the teriyaki sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like, you can prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this into the sauce in the slow cooker during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking. This will yield a nice, glossy finish for your Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken.
Are there any dietary considerations when making this dish?
If you’re serving someone with dietary restrictions, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Additionally, if there are allergies to certain ingredients, always check labels and consider making your own teriyaki sauce. For a healthier twist, you can reduce the sugar in homemade sauce recipes.
How can I make this Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken more balanced?
To incorporate additional flavor and nutrition, feel free to add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last 1-2 hours of cooking. This not only enhances the meal’s visual appeal but also transforms it into a well-rounded dish that includes protein, carbs, and veggies.
Savory Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken for Effortless Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a single layer in your slow cooker.
- Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- If you desire a thicker sauce, prepare a cornstarch slurry and add it to the sauce in the last 20-30 minutes.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred or slice the chicken and serve over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.