Introduction
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-prepare dish that brings the taste of Asian cuisine right to your dinner table. Perfectly tender chicken is slow-cooked in a delicious homemade teriyaki sauce, making it a convenient meal option for busy weeknights or gatherings. With minimal preparation and a few simple ingredients, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken thighs: 2 pounds, boneless and skinless
Soy sauce: 1/2 cup
Brown sugar: 1/4 cup
Honey: 1/4 cup
Rice vinegar: 2 tablespoons
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated
Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
Water: 2 tablespoons
Sesame seeds: for garnish
Green onions: for garnish, chopped
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high
Total Time: Approximately 4 to 6 hours and 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Cut them into half or leave them whole based on your preferences.
Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
Step 3: Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker
Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the teriyaki sauce over it. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 4: Cooking Time
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the teriyaki chicken over rice or noodles and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Cut Options
You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs in place of chicken breasts for a different flavor and texture.
Note 2: Sauce Thickness
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) and add it to the slow cooker in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Note 3: Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze cooked teriyaki chicken for up to 3 months.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or as a filling for wraps.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking allows the chicken to become tender and flavorful as it simmers in the teriyaki sauce for hours.
Marinating
Marinating the chicken in teriyaki sauce before cooking enhances its flavor, allowing the sauce to penetrate the meat.
Searing
Searing the chicken before placing it in the slow cooker can add an extra layer of flavor and texture to the dish.
Thickening Sauce
Towards the end of cooking, the sauce can be thickened to create a more luscious glaze for the chicken.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It is recommended to thaw the chicken before cooking for even cooking and better texture.
What can I serve with slow cooker teriyaki chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, steamed vegetables, or noodles for a complete meal.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook.
Is it possible to use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork, beef, or tofu, but cooking times may vary.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Conclusion
The Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful dish that blends tender chicken with a savory teriyaki sauce, creating a meal that is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe allows for minimal hands-on time while delivering maximum flavor. Serve it over rice or alongside vegetables for a complete and tasty dinner.
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