Print

Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki

Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki

This Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki recipe offers a deliciously simple way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken simmered in a perfectly balanced homemade teriyaki sauce. With minimal prep and a rich combination of sweet and savory flavors, it’s ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, and anyone craving an effortless yet satisfying Asian-inspired dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Teriyaki Sauce

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

Thickening Slurry

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water

Optional Garnishes

  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, honey, and water or chicken broth to form the teriyaki sauce base.
  2. Add Chicken to Slow Cooker: Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs evenly in the slow cooker. Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
  3. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken is tender and infused with the sauce.
  4. Thicken the Sauce: About 15 minutes before serving, combine cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker, switch the heat to high and cook uncovered until the sauce thickens to a glossy finish.
  5. Serve: Slightly shred the chicken with two forks to help absorb the sauce. Serve over steamed rice or your favorite side, and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs over breasts to ensure moist and tender results after slow cooking.
  • Fresh garlic and ginger provide better aroma and flavor than powders.
  • Adjust sweetness to taste by starting with less brown sugar and honey, adding more if needed near the end.
  • Add the cornstarch slurry near the end to avoid a gummy sauce texture.
  • Save the sauce and juices for serving; they add essential flavor and moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken teriyaki, easy chicken teriyaki, slow cooker recipes, gluten free chicken recipes, Asian chicken slow cooker