Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

If you love the sweet, savory flavors of teriyaki but want a hands-off, easy dinner option, this Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is the perfect recipe for you. With tender chicken breasts simmered in a beautifully balanced homemade teriyaki sauce, this dish is both comforting and flavorful. The slow cooker does all the hard work, leaving you with juicy chicken infused with garlic, ginger, and a hint of sesame. Whether you’re serving it over rice, noodles, or a fresh salad, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Unlike store-bought teriyaki sauces loaded with preservatives and excess sugar, this recipe uses wholesome ingredients you likely have in your pantry. The slow cooker method ensures the chicken is incredibly tender and infused with rich, layered flavors. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to prep and perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd. The balance of soy sauce, honey, mirin (or rice vinegar), garlic, and ginger creates that authentic teriyaki taste with a touch of natural sweetness and a subtle tang. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions for a beautiful finish that’s just as delicious as it looks.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup (60ml) low sodium soy sauce (Note 1)
• ¼ cup (60ml) water
• ⅓ cup (110g) honey
• 3 tablespoons mirin or rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
• 1½ lb (700g) chicken breasts, boneless and skinless (Note 2)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced

How To Make Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the low sodium soy sauce, water, honey, mirin (or rice vinegar), toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This mixture is your homemade teriyaki sauce, perfectly balanced between sweet, salty, and tangy.

Step 2: Add Chicken to the Slow Cooker

Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken, ensuring every piece is nicely coated.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. The slow cooking allows the chicken to absorb all those wonderful flavors.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and set aside on a plate. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker sauce. Turn the slow cooker to high and cook for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your liking.

Step 5: Combine and Garnish

Return the chicken to the slow cooker, tossing it in the thickened teriyaki sauce to coat. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a fresh, nutty finish.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken over steamed rice, quinoa, or alongside stir-fried vegetables. The sauce is so delicious, you’ll want to drizzle it generously over everything!

Expert Tips

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking and easy shredding.
• If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs also work wonderfully and stay juicy.
• For a thicker sauce, don’t skip the cornstarch slurry—it gives that perfect glossy finish.
• Grate fresh ginger yourself rather than using pre-packaged ginger paste for the best flavor.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey to suit your taste.
• Make sure to slice green onions just before serving to keep them fresh and bright.
• To add a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes before cooking.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snap peas into the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking for a complete meal.
• Protein Swap: Substitute chicken breasts with turkey breast or firm tofu for a different take.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Spicy Teriyaki: Mix in a teaspoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
• Thickened Sauce Alternative: Instead of cornstarch, try arrowroot powder or tapioca starch for thickening.
• Garnishes: Top with chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, or a squeeze of lime for extra freshness.

How to Store Leftovers

After enjoying your delicious Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken and sauce will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When reheating, gently warm the chicken and sauce on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and evenly heated. Adding a splash of water or broth during reheating can help loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and tend to stay juicier during slow cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, but generally, thighs take about the same time in the slow cooker.

Is mirin necessary, or can I substitute it?

Mirin adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce, but if you don’t have it, rice vinegar is a perfect substitute. Just note that rice vinegar is more acidic, so the sauce may taste a bit tangier.

Can I make this recipe on high heat instead of low?

You can cook this recipe on high for about 2 to 3 hours, but cooking on low heat for 4 to 5 hours is ideal for tender, juicy chicken and better flavor absorption.

How do I make the sauce thicker without cornstarch?

If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder, tapioca starch, or even reduce the sauce by cooking it uncovered on high for a longer time until it thickens. Just be sure to stir occasionally to avoid burning.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that fits perfectly into busy lifestyles without sacrificing taste. With minimal prep and a handful of pantry staples, you get juicy chicken bathed in a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce that’s both sweet and savory. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation. Serve it over your favorite grains or veggies, and enjoy a comforting meal that feels like it took hours to prepare—without any of the fuss. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll understand why it’s a must-have for effortless weeknight dinners!