The Best Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe – Bite Blaze

Pairing This Dish

Before we delve into the juicy details of making crock pot teriyaki chicken, let’s talk about what to serve alongside this mouthwatering dish. Here are a few favorites:

– Steamed Rice: A classic go-to. The fluffy grains soak up every drop of teriyaki sauce and balance the dish perfectly.

– Vegetables Stir Fry: Bright, colorful veggies tossed in soy sauce complement the sweetness of the chicken beautifully. Think bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots.

– Salad: A crisp salad, perhaps with a sesame dressing, adds a refreshing crunch to the meal.

– Noodles: Toss some quick-cooking rice noodles with sesame oil and green onions for a delightful texture contrast.

These options not only round out your meal but also enhance the flavors of the teriyaki chicken, making it an unforgettable experience.

If you’re anything like me, you appreciate a good meal that requires minimal fuss. Enter the crock pot teriyaki chicken, a dish that not only delivers on flavor but does so without taking over your kitchen. Imagine coming home after a hectic day to the tantalizing aroma of chicken simmering in a rich, sweet, and savory sauce. Sounds inviting, right?

Let’s face it; we’ve all had those days when the idea of cooking feels overwhelming. Fortunately, slow-cookers save the day, making meal prep a breeze. This dish is a fantastic example of how patience pays off. The chicken becomes tender and infused with flavor as it cooks low and slow, while you can kick back and take care of other things.

So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get into what makes this dish so special, shall we?

What is Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe?

In essence, crock pot teriyaki chicken is a simple yet delicious dish made by marinating chicken in a vibrant sauce and letting it cook until tender in a slow cooker. 

It’s tangy, just the right amount sweet, and can be used in various ways—from rice bowls to tacos. The flavors meld beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience.

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Why This Recipe Works

1. Simple Preparation

This dish is incredibly straightforward. No need for fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. With a handful of pantry staples, you can whip this up in no time. Toss everything in the crock pot, set it, and let the magic happen.

2. Adjustability

One of the best parts about this recipe is the flexibility. Not feeling chicken? No problem. This recipe also works with pork, tofu, or even veggies. You can tailor it to fit your dietary preferences, making it perfect for families with diverse tastes.

3. Flavor Explosion

The combination of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates an exciting punch of flavor. As the chicken simmers away, the flavors penetrate each piece, resulting in a dish that’s surprisingly complex despite its simplicity.

4. Leftover Power

This dish not only tastes amazing fresh but also makes for fantastic leftovers. Use it in salads, sandwiches, or reheated with rice. It keeps well, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

You don’t need to gather a long list of ingredients. Here’s what you will need to get started:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast fillets
  
• ¼ cup pure honey
  
• 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
  
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh garlic
  
• 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
  
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seed oil
  
• 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
  
• ¼ cup cold water
  
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water)
  
• 2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions
  
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  
• 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional for a mild kick)
  
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice (for brightness)
  

Have these at hand? Wonderful! You’re already halfway to a spectacular meal.

How to Make This Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First things first, take your chicken breast fillets and place them directly into the crock pot. If they’re larger in size, consider cutting them in half. This ensures they cook evenly and soak up more flavor.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

Now for the fun part—mixing your sauce! In a bowl, combine the honey, brown sugar, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, toasted sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, and cold water. Stir until mixed thoroughly. The combination should be fragrant and inviting.

Step 3: Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken

Once your sauce is ready, pour it all over the chicken in the crock pot. Give it a little stir to ensure the chicken is well-coated.

Step 4: Cook on Low

Cover the crock pot and let it work its magic. Cook on low for about 6-7 hours. This slow cooking allows the chicken to tenderize and absorb the flavors, resulting in a juicy dish you can’t help but love.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

As your cooking time nears completion, mix your cornstarch with an equal part of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes on high. This step thickens the sauce, making it perfect for drizzling over rice.

Step 6: Serve

Once it’s ready, shred the chicken with two forks right in the crock pot. Stir to combine it with the sauce. Serve it over rice, garnish with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and a lime wedge for that extra punch.

Tips for Making the Perfect Teriyaki Chicken

– Don’t Skip the Marinade: If time allows, marinating the chicken in the sauce a few hours (or overnight) before cooking will intensify the flavor.

– Use Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: This helps keep the dish from becoming overly salty. Always a good call for health-conscious eaters.

– Chili Garlic Sauce: Adding this optional ingredient gives a nice kick. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.

– Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor. They’ll bring a vibrancy that dried spices can’t match.

– Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Nutrition Information

When prepared as directed, a serving of crock pot teriyaki chicken typically contains:

• Calories: Approximately 290
  
• Protein: 28g
  
• Carbohydrates: 34g
  
• Fat: 6g
  
• Fiber: 1g
  
• Sodium: 750mg
  

(Note: Values can vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities.)

How to Store the Leftovers?

After enjoying your meal, let any leftovers cool down before placing them in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to four days. You can also freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw and reheat thoroughly.

Recommended Side Dishes for Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken

While teriyaki chicken shines on its own, pairing it with delightful sides elevates the meal. Here are some tried-and-true options:

– Steamed Broccoli: This classic side holds its ground. Its bright green color and subtle crunch add a healthy dimension next to the sweet and savory chicken.

– Fried Rice: Leftover rice transformed into a quick fried rice dish with peas, carrots, and scrambled eggs takes the meal to a new level. It’s a fantastic way to use those grains sitting in your pantry.

– Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing cucumber salad drizzled with rice vinegar can balance the richness of the chicken. Crisp cucumbers add a nice crunch and a cool contrast.

– Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf with herbs and nuts provides a unique twist. Quinoa is a great gluten-free option that adds protein and texture to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutes

Let’s be real; sometimes, you think you have it all, and then… surprise! You’re out of an essential ingredient. Here are some handy swaps:

– Honey: If you’re out of honey, maple syrup or agave nectar can work as substitutes. They’ll lend a similar sweetness.

– Soy Sauce: In a pinch, you can use tamari (a gluten-free option) or coconut aminos. Both provide that savory flavor profile.

– Brown Sugar: If you don’t have brown sugar, white sugar mixed with a touch of molasses can mimic that deep flavor.

– Sesame Seed Oil: Canola oil or even olive oil can be a stand-in, although they won’t deliver the same nutty aroma.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

There you have it—a delightful journey into the world of crock pot teriyaki chicken! This dish not only delivers on flavor but also brings comfort through its simplicity. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a laid-back weekend meal.

As a food enthusiast, I can promise you’ll love the outcome. Plus, the chance to kick back while dinner cooks itself? That’s a win in my book! So gather your ingredients, fire up the crock pot, and prepare yourself for a flavor-packed meal that practically makes itself. Enjoy every bite!

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