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Easy Tender Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe for Perfect Dinner Ideas

crockpot teriyaki chicken - featured image

A simple and flavorful slow cooker teriyaki chicken recipe that is tender, juicy, and perfect for busy weeknights. Made with pantry staples and a sweet-savory sauce, this dish is a comforting crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce (120 ml)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 grams)
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated or finely minced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice (60 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (30 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (8 grams) mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (5 ml)
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, pineapple juice, and rice vinegar.
  2. Place chicken breasts or thighs evenly in the slow cooker.
  3. Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken, coating each piece well.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours until chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. Check for doneness and cook an additional 15-30 minutes if needed.
  6. Mix cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry.
  7. Remove chicken and set aside. Pour cooking liquid into a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  8. Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and cook until sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, thicken sauce in the slow cooker on high while stirring.
  9. Return chicken to the slow cooker or serve immediately, spooning thickened sauce over the top.
  10. Drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Notes

Do not overcook chicken to avoid dryness, especially breasts. Use thighs for juicier results. Avoid opening the slow cooker lid frequently to maintain heat. Whisk cornstarch slurry well to prevent lumps; strain sauce if lumps form. For extra caramelization, broil cooked chicken 2-3 minutes before serving. Can substitute pineapple juice with water or chicken broth. For gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. For low sugar, reduce brown sugar and increase pineapple juice. Vegetables can be added in the last hour of cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: teriyaki chicken, crockpot chicken, slow cooker recipe, easy dinner, tender chicken, teriyaki sauce, comfort food