Slow Cooker Honey Teriyaki Chicken

Slow Cooker Honey Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful and easy dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, sweet, and savory teriyaki sauce. Made with simple pantry ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy a delicious homemade teriyaki chicken that pairs perfectly with rice or vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking – The slow cooker does all the work, making this a hands-off meal.
• Healthier Alternative – Made with natural ingredients and without excessive additives.
• Perfectly Tender Chicken – Slow cooking results in juicy, flavorful chicken that shreds beautifully.
• Versatile – Serve it over rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps.
• Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• Soy sauce
• Honey
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, grated
• Rice vinegar
• Sesame oil
• Cornstarch
• Water
• Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the sauce – In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
2. Add to the slow cooker – Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it.
3. Cook – Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
4. Thicken the sauce – In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water. Stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Shred the chicken – Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, then return it to the slow cooker and mix with the sauce.
6. Serve – Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-5 hours on low, or 2-3 hours on high
• Total Time: About 5 hours (including prep)

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat.
• Sweeter Version – Increase the honey for extra sweetness.
• Gluten-Free – Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Extra Veggies – Add bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli in the last hour of cooking.
• Pineapple Teriyaki – Add pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing – Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating – Warm in a pan over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay even juicier in the slow cooker.

Do I have to thicken the sauce?

No, but the cornstarch slurry helps create a rich, glossy sauce.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes, but making it from scratch gives better control over the flavors.

How do I make this in an Instant Pot?

Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then do a quick release. Thicken the sauce afterward if needed.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just ensure your slow cooker has enough space.

What should I serve with it?

Rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or a side of stir-fried greens pair perfectly.

Can I cook it on the stovetop?

Yes! Simmer in a pan over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

How do I make it less salty?

Use low-sodium soy sauce or dilute it with extra water.

Can I add other seasonings?

Absolutely! Garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of hoisin sauce can enhance the flavor.

Will this work with frozen chicken?

Yes, but increase the cooking time by about 30-45 minutes on low.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Honey Teriyaki Chicken is an easy, delicious, and family-friendly meal that requires minimal effort. With tender chicken and a flavorful homemade sauce, it’s perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners. Try different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy a healthier version of a takeout favorite!

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