Let’s face it, we all love a good teriyaki chicken, but who has the time to stand over a stove? This crock pot version is your ticket to flavorful, tender chicken with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe is a game-changer.
Why This Recipe Works
- The slow cooking process ensures the chicken is incredibly tender and absorbs all the teriyaki flavors.
- Using a crock pot means you can set it and forget it, freeing up your day for more important things.
- The homemade teriyaki sauce is simple yet packed with flavor, far superior to store-bought versions.
- This recipe is versatile, allowing for various substitutions to suit dietary needs or preferences.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Equipment Needed
- Crock pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper. Whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved. This homemade sauce is the secret to the dish’s depth of flavor, and making it from scratch avoids the preservatives found in store-bought versions.
Step 2: Add Chicken to Crock Pot
Place the chicken thighs in the crock pot in a single layer. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. The slow cooking process will infuse the chicken with the sauce’s flavors, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
Step 3: Cook on Low
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours. The low and slow method is key to achieving the perfect texture without drying out the chicken. Resist the urge to peek too often, as this can release heat and extend cooking time.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crock pot. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce in the crock pot, then return the chicken. Cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens. This step ensures your teriyaki chicken has that glossy, sticky sauce we all love.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. These garnishes add a pop of color and a burst of freshness that elevates the dish. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Tips and Tricks
For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce overnight before cooking. If you’re short on time, you can cook the chicken on high for 2-3 hours, but low and slow yields the best results. To make this dish spicier, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce. For a healthier version, substitute the brown sugar with coconut sugar and use low-sodium soy sauce. Always use fresh garlic and ginger for the brightest flavors.
Recipe Variations
- Swap chicken thighs for breasts for a leaner option, though cooking time may need adjustment.
- Add pineapple chunks during the last hour of cooking for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Use the teriyaki chicken as a filling for tacos or sliders for a fun meal idea.
- Vegetarians can substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, adjusting cooking times as needed.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the cooked teriyaki chicken?
Absolutely! This dish freezes beautifully. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer an even thicker sauce, you can increase the amount of cornstarch slurry. Just remember, a little goes a long way, so start with the recommended amount and adjust as needed. The sauce will also thicken slightly as it cools.
Can I use frozen chicken?
While you can use frozen chicken, it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Cooking frozen chicken in the crock pot can result in uneven temperatures, potentially leading to food safety issues. If you must use frozen, extend the cooking time and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Summary
This Crock Pot Chicken Teriyaki is a foolproof way to enjoy a classic dish with minimal effort. Tender chicken, a flavorful homemade sauce, and the convenience of slow cooking make this recipe a must-try. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.