crock pot teriyaki chicken recipe

The Best crock pot teriyaki chicken recipe

I love this crock pot teriyaki chicken recipe because it’s one of those meals that checks all the boxes—easy, flavorful, and always a hit with my family. My kids ask for it at least once a week, and honestly, I don’t blame them. The sauce is sweet and savory without being overpowering, and the chicken comes out so tender it practically falls apart. It’s the kind of dish that makes weeknight dinners feel effortless, but it’s also special enough to serve when we have friends over.

What I appreciate most about this recipe is how simple it is to throw together in the morning. Just a few ingredients, a quick stir, and let the slow cooker do the work. By dinnertime, the house smells amazing, and I don’t have to stress about last-minute prep. Plus, it’s a great way to get a balanced meal on the table—lean protein, a little veggie boost if you add some, and a sauce that’s way healthier than takeout. My kids love it over rice, and I like that I can make extra for leftovers the next day. It’s one of those recipes I always come back to because it’s reliable, delicious, and just makes life a little easier.

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

4.6 from 1559 votes

A simple and flavorful slow-cooked chicken dish with a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe pairs well with rice and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

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Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time4 hours

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time4 hours 10 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• 1/2 cup soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water

For Serving

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
• 2 green onions, sliced (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then place it in the crock pot.
2. 2 In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crock pot.
3. 3 Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. 4 Remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred it using two forks. Set aside.
5. 5 In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the teriyaki sauce remaining in the crock pot.
6. 6 Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir to coat it evenly with the thickened sauce. Cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
7. 7 Serve the teriyaki chicken over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.

🔧Equipment

• Crock pot (slow cooker)
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 2.5g❤️Cholesterol: 125mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0.5g🍬Sugars: 25g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: For a thicker sauce, add more cornstarch slurry. To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This crock pot teriyaki chicken is one of those recipes I always reach for because it’s simple, flavorful, and works for just about any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser that requires almost no effort. Plus, the leftovers taste just as good the next day, which is always a win in my book.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

1. Can I use frozen chicken in the crock pot teriyaki chicken recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken in this recipe, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, add an extra 1–2 hours to the cooking time on low heat. For food safety, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

2. How long does it take to cook teriyaki chicken in a crock pot?

Cooking time depends on the heat setting: – Low heat: 4–6 hours – High heat: 2–3 hours For best results, cook until the chicken shreds easily with a fork.

3. Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?

Yes, you can substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos (for a gluten-free option) or tamari (for a richer flavor). Keep the same measurement, but adjust saltiness to taste since some alternatives may be saltier.

4. What sides pair well with crock pot teriyaki chicken?

Popular sides include: – Steamed rice or quinoa – Stir-fried or roasted vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers) – Noodles (udon or ramen) – A fresh cucumber salad or coleslaw

5. Can I freeze leftovers of this teriyaki chicken?

Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop. The sauce may thicken after freezing, so add a splash of water or broth when reheating.