Description
This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken thighs or breasts simmered in a homemade teriyaki sauce made from soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and fresh ginger. The slow cooking process infuses the chicken with sweet and savory flavors, while an optional cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce to a perfect glaze. Garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, this dish is ideal served over rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for an easy and delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, trimmed of excess fat
Teriyaki Sauce
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Thickener (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
Garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs or breasts in the slow cooker in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Make the Teriyaki Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated fresh ginger until fully combined, creating a balanced sweet and savory sauce.
- Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken: Evenly pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken inside the slow cooker, making sure each piece is well coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook the chicken on low heat for 4-5 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours. Cook until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce in the slow cooker, then cover and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glaze-like consistency.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving platter. Spoon some of the thickened teriyaki sauce over the chicken, and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve the slow cooker teriyaki chicken alongside rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
- Store: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving again.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results; chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your preference.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, do not skip the cornstarch slurry step.
- Garnishing with sesame seeds and green onions adds texture and a fresh flavor contrast.
- Leftovers can be incorporated into rice bowls or salads for meal prep versatility.
