Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken simmered in a homemade sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, it delivers rich umami flavors with minimal effort thanks to slow cooker convenience. Ideal for family meals, meal prep, or entertaining guests, this dish combines comfort, taste, and versatility in every bite.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free (with substitutions)
Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Teriyaki Sauce
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup for a healthier version)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Thickening Slurry
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
Garnish
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil until fully combined and smooth.
- Add Chicken to Slow Cooker: Place cleaned boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a single layer in the slow cooker, ensuring there is enough space for even cooking.
- Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated for maximum flavor infusion.
- Cook on Low: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 4 to 6 hours, allowing the sauce to deeply infuse the chicken and tenderize the meat.
- Thicken the Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the slow cooker. This will thicken the teriyaki sauce to a glossy consistency.
- Serve and Garnish: Once the sauce has thickened, serve the chicken topped with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a fresh and crunchy finishing touch.
Notes
- Choose chicken thighs for juicier, more forgiving meat compared to breasts.
- Use fresh garlic and ginger to elevate flavor beyond store-bought sauces.
- Reserve some green onions for garnish to maintain freshness and vibrancy.
- Thicken the sauce at the end for a better texture and flavor clinging to chicken and rice.
- Adjust seasoning by adding more honey or soy sauce to taste if needed.
- Optional additions: red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat, bell peppers or broccoli for veggies, pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: slow cooker, teriyaki chicken, easy dinner, healthy, gluten free, Asian cuisine, meal prep, comfort food