Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki
This slow cooker chicken teriyaki recipe is a perfect choice for those looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy tender and flavorful chicken that is bursting with the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki sauce.
Busy parents, as well as those who love convenient cooking, will find this recipe a favorite in their kitchen.
Get your slow cooker ready and in no time you will have a mouthwatering meal to enjoy.
Origins
Tracing back to its origins, Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki is based on a centuries-old Japanese dish. It’s believed to have originated in the Kanto region of Japan, particularly Tokyo. The name ‘Teriyaki’ comes from two Japanese words ‘teri’ meaning shiny or glaze, and ‘yaki’ meaning grilled or broiled.
The cooking technique requires marinating chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, before grilling or broiling it. The dish then gained global recognition for its sweet and savory flavors.
Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki provides a modern twist to the classic dish, offering an easy and convenient way to prepare it while still keeping the delicious taste.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki
-3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
-1/2 cup soy sauce
-1/4 cup honey
-2 cloves garlic, minced
-1 teaspoon ground ginger
-1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
-1/4 cup cold water
-2 tablespoons cornstarch
-2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional)
-2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
-Steamed rice, for serving
Instructions
Start the slow cooker for the chicken teriyaki. Take these steps to make a tender and tasty meal:
- Put the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
- Mix together soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil in a bowl.
- Douse the chicken with the teriyaki sauce, making sure each piece is coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, remove it from the slow cooker.
- In a small saucepan, combine cornstarch and water, then add it to the teriyaki sauce in the slow cooker.
- Cook on high for an additional 15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
- Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the slow cooker, stirring to coat it in the thickened sauce.
- Serve the slow cooker chicken teriyaki over steamed rice and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Enjoy your homemade slow cooker chicken teriyaki!
Tips for Cooking
For maximum results, try out these tips when cooking your slow cooker chicken teriyaki.
| Tips for Cooking | Tips for Cooking |
|---|---|
| 1. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs to get juicy and tender meat. | 2. Cut the chicken into small pieces to ensure even cooking. |
| 3. Marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes to increase the flavor. | 4. Include vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and onions for texture and flavor. |
- Cook on low heat for 4-5 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours to let the flavors blend together.
- Stir the chicken occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Serve the slow cooker chicken teriyaki over steamed rice or with noodles to make a full meal.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions for a hint of freshness and presentation.
Final Thoughts
To conclude your slow cooker chicken teriyaki experience, here are some key points to consider.
-
Experiment with the recipe and don’t be afraid to add your own twist with extra ingredients.
-
The slow cooker is a great tool for busy people or families who want to make a delicious meal with little effort.
-
Don’t forget to appreciate the taste of the homemade teriyaki sauce! With its combination of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sweetness, you’ll certainly be coming back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Beef Instead of Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute beef for chicken in this recipe. It will provide a different flavor and texture, but it should still be delicious. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I Substitute Soy Sauce With Tamari for a Gluten-Free Version?
Yes, you can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free version. Tamari is often made with little to no wheat, making it an ideal choice if you need to adhere to a gluten-free diet. It’s a great alternative to soy sauce, so you can still enjoy your favorite foods without worrying about dietary restrictions.
How Long Can I Keep the Leftovers in the Fridge?
You can keep the leftovers of Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki in the fridge for a few days. To ensure they remain fresh, make sure to store them in an airtight container. This will help to keep them fresh and prevent them from spoiling.
Can I Freeze the Cooked Chicken Teriyaki for Later Use?
Yes, you can certainly freeze the cooked chicken teriyaki for later use. It’s a great way to have a tasty meal on hand for when you need it. Be sure to store it properly in an airtight container to ensure it stays fresh and delicious.
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
This recipe can be easily adapted for vegetarians or vegans. Simply switch out the chicken for tofu or plant-based protein, and use a vegan-friendly teriyaki sauce. You can enjoy a delicious meat-free version!
