It should entice the reader and set the tone for the dish. This crockpot teriyaki chicken recipe is a perfect blend of flavors that will elevate your dinner routine. With minimal prep time, you can let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the aromas of sweet soy sauce, ginger, and garlic filling your kitchen. Serve over rice for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 cup broccoli florets (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
- Cooked rice, for serving
- Sesame seeds and green onions, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 4 oz of chicken with sauce) contains around 300 calories, 10g of fat, 30g of protein, and 20g of carbohydrates. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix teriyaki sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, and sesame oil.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
- If using, add broccoli florets in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
- Mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry.
- Add the slurry to the sauce in the crockpot and stir until thickened.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and mix well.
- Serve over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, low-sodium teriyaki sauce can be used for a healthier alternative, and you can add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas according to your preference.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or egg rolls for a complete meal experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s in a suitable freezer container.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be tender but not dry.
- Be careful not to add too much salt; teriyaki sauce can be salty.
- Ensure the crockpot is set to the correct temperature; low is recommended.
- Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker sauce.
- Make sure to shred the chicken properly for better sauce absorption.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor.
- Try marinating the chicken overnight for deeper flavors.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey.
- Experiment with different vegetables for added nutrition.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to cook it on high for a longer time to ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature.
What can I serve with teriyaki chicken?
Teriyaki chicken is delicious over rice, but it also pairs well with quinoa, noodles, or a fresh salad.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce the night before and cook it the next day.
Is teriyaki chicken healthy?
When made with lean chicken and served with vegetables, teriyaki chicken can be a healthy meal option. Adjust the sauce for lower sugar content if desired.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is tender enough to shred easily.
Conclusion
This crockpot teriyaki chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to your meal rotation, offering an easy and flavorful dish that everyone will love. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting meal perfect for busy nights. Enjoy the savory taste of homemade teriyaki chicken without the fuss!
Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 cup broccoli florets optional
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch for thickening
- Cooked rice for serving
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix teriyaki sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, and sesame oil.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
- If using, add broccoli florets in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
- Mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry.
- Add the slurry to the sauce in the crockpot and stir until thickened.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and mix well.
- Serve over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Nutrition
