Description
This Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken is a sweet and savory slow cooker favorite that practically makes itself. Juicy chicken simmers in a homemade teriyaki sauce until perfectly tender, then gets tossed in a thick, sticky glaze that’s bursting with flavor. It’s the easiest way to enjoy a takeout-style dinner with just minutes of prep—and it’s always a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients
- 2–3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- ½ cup low sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger (or 1 tsp ground ginger)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp cold water (for slurry)
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
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Prep Chicken: Place chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker.
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Make Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, vinegar, and water. Pour over the chicken.
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Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours or High for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
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Shred & Thicken: Remove chicken and shred or slice. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and cold water. Stir into the sauce in the crock pot.
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Finish Sauce: Turn slow cooker to high and cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until sauce thickens.
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Serve: Return chicken to the pot and coat with the thickened sauce. Serve over rice, and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for extra flavor and tenderness.
- Add pineapple chunks or broccoli for a more complete meal.
- Want it spicy? Add sriracha or red pepper flakes.
- Double the sauce if you like extra to drizzle over rice or veggies.
- Make it gluten-free by using tamari and checking all ingredients.