Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

This Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create a delicious meal with minimal effort. In just 5 minutes of prep time, you can set your slow cooker and let it work its magic! The tender chicken, infused with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, is ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables and fried rice for a delightful Asian-inspired feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Spend only 5 minutes prepping this dish. Just throw everything into the crock pot and relax!
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade teriyaki sauce is a blend of sweet and savory flavors that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, stir-fry vegetables, or even in wraps for an easy lunch.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch to enjoy over several days; it reheats beautifully!
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike enjoy this tasty dish, making it a perfect choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken effortless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for cooking the chicken evenly while allowing flavors to meld together.
• Fine mesh strainer: Use it to ensure your sauce is smooth by removing any lumps or impurities.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds chicken breasts

For the Sauce

• 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

For Thickening the Sauce

• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 Tablespoon cool water

How to Make Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

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

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

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

Whisk these ingredients together until well combined. Remember not to add the cornstarch and water yet!

Step 3: Add Chicken Breasts

Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Turn them gently so they are well coated in the sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Set your slow cooker to low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. The chicken should be easily shredded when done.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crock pot and place it in a medium serving dish. Reserve the sauce—do not discard it!

Step 6: Strain and Thicken Sauce

Using a fine mesh strainer, pour the reserved sauce into a 4-quart saucepan.

Step 7: Prepare Cornstarch Mixture

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with cool water until smooth. Add this mixture to your strained sauce and stir until fully incorporated.

Step 8: Boil and Thicken Sauce

Bring your saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook while stirring constantly until thickened.

Step 9: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Mix half of your thickened sauce into the shredded chicken. Set aside the remaining sauce for serving.

Step 10: Serve Your Dish

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

Now you’re ready to indulge in this flavorful dish that’s sure to impress at any dinner table!

How to Serve Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Serving your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is an important step in enjoying this delicious meal. There are various ways to present it, making it appealing and satisfying for everyone at the table.

With Rice

• White Rice: A classic choice that absorbs the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice: A healthier option with a nutty flavor that complements the dish well.
• Fried Rice: Adds extra texture and flavor, making the meal more filling.

With Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick-fry your favorite veggies like bell peppers and broccoli for a colorful side.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple and nutritious; it balances the sweetness of the chicken.
• Asian Slaw: A crunchy, refreshing salad that adds contrast to the tender chicken.

On Sandwiches

• Teriyaki Chicken Sliders: Use small buns for a fun finger food option.
• Wraps: Combine shredded chicken with veggies and sauce in a tortilla for a handheld meal.

With Noodles

• Rice Noodles: Serve the chicken over rice noodles for a different texture.
• Soba Noodles: A great choice for an Asian-inspired twist.

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How to Perfect Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

To ensure your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the flavor of your sauce significantly.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the honey amount based on your sweetness preference.
• Shred After Cooking: Allowing the chicken to rest before shredding can make it easier to pull apart.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Make sure to whisk cornstarch fully into the sauce for a smooth consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Pairing your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken with great sides can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to complement this flavorful dish:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy, perfect for soaking up teriyaki sauce.
2. Sesame Green Beans: Sautéed with sesame oil, they add crunch and flavor.
3. Miso Soup: A warm, comforting option that balances out the sweetness of the chicken.
4. Edamame Pods: Lightly salted, they are a nutritious snack or side dish.
5. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and cool, ideal for contrasting with hot dishes.
6. Fried Rice Balls: A fun way to enjoy leftover rice while adding a crispy texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken, avoiding common mistakes is essential. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Stick to the recommended cook times for perfect tenderness.
• Skipping the sauce straining: Not straining the sauce can lead to an unappealing texture. Always strain for a smooth finish.
• Using low-quality soy sauce: A poor quality soy sauce can affect flavor. Choose a good brand for richer taste.
• Not adjusting sweetness: Honey levels vary, so taste and adjust. You can add more or less honey based on your preferences.
• Ignoring cooking temperatures: Make sure to set your slow cooker correctly—low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken:

What is Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is a slow-cooked dish featuring chicken breasts simmered in a flavorful teriyaki sauce made from soy sauce, honey, and spices.

How do I make Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken less sweet?

To reduce sweetness, simply decrease the amount of honey used in the recipe or substitute it with less sweet alternatives.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can use thighs instead of breasts for a more flavorful option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How should I serve Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken?

Serve it over rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. This dish is versatile enough to pair with various sides like rice or veggies, allowing you to customize it according to your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful meal any night of the week!