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Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki

Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki
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This Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki recipe offers a fuss-free, delicious dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring tender, juicy chicken thighs slow-cooked in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, this meal requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. Ideal for families, this recipe is easily customizable and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making comfort food that feels special and effortless.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Teriyaki Sauce

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1/4 to 1/3 cup honey or brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (or 1 tsp ground ginger)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup water or chicken broth

Thickening Slurry

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water

Optional Add-ins and Garnishes

  • Broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers (added last 30 minutes)
  • Toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro (for garnish)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha (for spice, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Trim any excess fat from your chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the sauce adhere better and improves the texture after cooking.
  2. Mix the Teriyaki Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and water or chicken broth until the sweetener dissolves completely.
  3. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in the slow cooker, then evenly pour the teriyaki sauce over the top, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
  5. Thicken the Sauce: About 20 to 30 minutes before serving, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water to form a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker and cook uncovered to thicken the sauce into a glossy glaze.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the chicken over steamed rice or noodles, spoon extra sauce on top, and garnish with toasted sesame seeds, green onions, or cilantro as desired.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier, more flavorful results.
  • Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry to achieve the perfect glossy sauce.
  • Add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers during the last 30 minutes to keep them crisp.
  • Adjust sweetness by tasting the sauce before cooking and modifying the honey or sugar as needed.
  • Prepare the recipe the night before by assembling in the slow cooker insert and refrigerating for convenience.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, chicken teriyaki, easy dinner, comfort food, gluten free option, one pot meal, family-friendly

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/slow-cooker-chicken-teriyaki/