Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

This Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken recipe is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights. With just 5 minutes of prep, you can create a delicious dish that will impress your family and friends. The slow cooker allows the chicken to absorb all the flavorful teriyaki sauce, making it tender and juicy. Perfect for serving over rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables, this dish is versatile enough for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Only 5 minutes to prep means you can spend more time with loved ones.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of honey, soy sauce, and spices creates a mouthwatering taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, stir-fried veggies, or an Asian salad for a complete meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike!

Tools and Preparation

To make this recipe, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Perfect for hands-off cooking; it allows the flavors to meld while you go about your day.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing sauces evenly, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
• Fine mesh strainer: Helps remove any lumps from the sauce, giving you a smooth texture.

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: Prepare the Sauce

Add the following ingredients in order into the prepared slow cooker:
Honey
Soy sauce
Rice vinegar
Mirin
Powdered ginger
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Black pepper
Sesame oil

Whisk to combine thoroughly. Do not add the cornstarch and water mixture at this stage!

Step 3: Add Chicken Breasts

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

Step 4: Cook Chicken

Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until chicken shreds easily with a fork.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Remove chicken from the crockpot and place it into a medium serving dish. Do not discard the sauce! Shred chicken using two forks. Cover and set aside.

Step 6: Strain Sauce

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

Step 7: Thicken Sauce

Mix cornstarch in cool water and add it to the strained sauce. Stir or whisk until fully incorporated. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until thickened.

Step 8: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Mix half of the thickened sauce into shredded chicken, saving half for serving later.

Step 9: Serve

Serve your delicious Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or your favorite Asian salad! Enjoy!

How to Serve Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways to please every palate. Whether you prefer it over rice or paired with fresh vegetables, there are many delicious options.

Over Steamed Rice

• Steamed white rice is a classic choice that absorbs the rich teriyaki sauce perfectly, making each bite flavorful.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the shredded chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. Add some shredded carrots and cucumbers for crunch.

With Noodles

• Toss the teriyaki chicken with cooked noodles for a satisfying meal. Top with sesame seeds and green onions for added flavor.

On a Salad

• Create a refreshing salad by adding teriyaki chicken on top of mixed greens along with sliced bell peppers and avocado.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pairing with stir-fried veggies adds color and nutrients. Broccoli, snap peas, and bell peppers work well together.

In Tacos

• For a fun twist, use the teriyaki chicken as a filling for soft or hard-shell tacos. Garnish with pineapple salsa for extra zest.

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How to Perfect Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken, consider these simple tips:

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the flavor profile of your dish significantly.
• Marinate overnight – For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight before cooking.
• Avoid overcooking – Keep an eye on cooking times to ensure the chicken stays tender; overcooked chicken can become dry.
• Thicken sauce properly – Make sure to bring the sauce to a boil after adding cornstarch for that perfect thick texture.
• Adjust sweetness – If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of honey in the sauce to suit your taste.
• Garnish wisely – Top your finished dish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an attractive presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken pairs beautifully with numerous side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fried Rice – A classic Asian side that adds savory depth and texture. Consider using leftover rice for convenience.
2. Steamed Broccoli – This healthy option brings vibrant color and fiber to your plate, balancing out the richness of the chicken.
3. Egg Rolls – Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat add crunch and are great for dipping in soy sauce.
4. Asian Slaw – A refreshing slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing can brighten up your meal.
5. Quinoa Salad – Quinoa provides protein and nutty flavor; mix it with cucumbers and bell peppers for freshness.
6. Sweet Potato Mash – Creamy mashed sweet potatoes offer a sweet contrast to savory teriyaki chicken.
7. Cucumber Salad – Lightly pickled cucumbers add a refreshing crunch that complements the dish well.
8. Rice Noodles – Soft rice noodles tossed in sesame oil make a delightful base or side that soaks up all the wonderful flavors of teriyaki sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the marinating step – Not allowing the chicken to soak in the sauce can result in bland flavor. Marinate for at least 30 minutes for a deeper taste.
• Using low-quality soy sauce – Poor-quality soy sauce can affect the overall flavor of your dish. Always choose a good brand for a richer taste.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker – Packing too much chicken into the slow cooker can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure there’s space for heat circulation.
• Neglecting to thicken the sauce – Skipping the cornstarch step can leave you with a watery sauce. Always incorporate cornstarch for that perfect glaze.
• Not shredding the chicken properly – Leaving large pieces of chicken can lead to an uneven texture. Shred it well for better distribution of flavors.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil; heat until warm.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover; reheat in short intervals, stirring frequently.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or sauce if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken that you might find helpful.

How do I make Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute for regular soy sauce in this recipe.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to increase your cooking time by about an hour on low.

What should I serve with my Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, stir-fried vegetables, or an Asian-style salad.

How long will leftover Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for three months.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious! Its versatility allows you to pair it with various sides, making it perfect for any meal occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite veggies or spices!