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–+ servings
Benjamin

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken – Quick, Sweet & Delicious Dinner Idea

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. Tender chicken is slow-cooked in a rich homemade teriyaki sauce, creating a meal that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious. Serve it over rice or noodles for a comforting dinner that feels like a treat.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch for thickening
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons green onions chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds optional, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken
  2. Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs or breasts. If using large pieces, cut them into smaller portions.
  3. Make the Sauce
  4. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, water, and sesame oil until well combined.
  5. Assemble the Slow Cooker
  6. Place the chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker in a single layer.
  7. Pour the teriyaki sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
  8. Cook the Chicken
  9. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
  10. Thicken the Sauce
  11. About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and set it aside.
  12. Mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce in the slow cooker.
  13. Turn the slow cooker to high and let the sauce thicken for 20–30 minutes.
  14. Combine and Serve
  15. Return the chicken to the slow cooker and toss it in the thickened sauce.
  16. Serve the chicken over steamed rice or noodles, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Notes

  • Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Thighs are more forgiving in the slow cooker, staying moist even after long cooking times.
  • Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  • Freezing: This dish freezes well. Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

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