When it comes to weeknight dinners, nothing beats the convenience and flavor of a slow cooker meal. The aroma wafting through your home as the ingredients meld together is pure magic. This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a dish that not only delivers on taste but also on ease. With tender chicken breasts drenched in a savory-sweet teriyaki sauce, it’s a dish that the whole family will love. Plus, with minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it until dinnertime!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This recipe stands out for its simplicity and rich flavor profile. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb the delicious teriyaki sauce, resulting in a dish that is both juicy and flavorful. The balance of savory soy sauce, sweet brown sugar, and aromatic garlic creates a delightful harmony that’s hard to resist. Additionally, the use of a slow cooker means you can prepare it in the morning and come home to a warm, ready-to-eat meal, making it perfect for busy families.

The Ingredient Lineup

To create this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

3 skinless, boneless chicken breasts – The star of the dish, providing protein and heartiness.
1 cup low sodium chicken broth – Keeps the chicken moist and adds depth to the sauce.
1 cup teriyaki sauce – The backbone of flavor in this recipe.
1 cup brown sugar – Adds sweetness and balances the saltiness of the soy sauce.
5 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the dish with robust flavor.
1 cup low sodium soy sauce – A key ingredient for that classic teriyaki taste.
1 teaspoon sesame oil – Adds a nutty aroma and flavor.
Sesame seeds for garnish – A finishing touch that adds texture and visual appeal.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before you start cooking, gather these essential kitchen tools:

Slow Cooker – The heart of this recipe; choose one with a capacity of at least 4 quarts.
Measuring cups – For accurate ingredient measurements.
Cutting board and knife – To prep your garlic and chicken.
Serving spoon – For serving the finished dish.
Small bowl – Optional, for mixing ingredients before adding to the slow cooker.

From Start to Finish: Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Follow these simple steps to create your Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. You want them to be as lean as possible for the best texture.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the low sodium chicken broth, teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, low sodium soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir until the brown sugar is fully dissolved.

Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated.

Step 4: Set the Slow Cooker

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer, slower cooking time will result in even more tender chicken.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce in the slow cooker and stir to combine.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Scoop the teriyaki chicken onto serving plates and sprinkle with sesame seeds for an added touch. Serve over rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Seasonal Twists

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding seasonal ingredients:

Spring: Toss in some fresh snap peas or asparagus for a pop of color and crunch.
Summer: Serve with grilled pineapple for a tropical twist.
Fall: Add diced sweet potatoes for a hearty addition.
Winter: Incorporate broccoli or bok choy for a warming effect.

Chef’s Rationale

The beauty of this Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken lies in its versatility. Not only can you customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand, but the slow cooking process allows for maximum flavor infusion. The combination of sweet and savory is universally appealing, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Once your Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken has cooled down, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To rewarm, simply microwave individual portions or heat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through. If the sauce thickens in the fridge, you may want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up during reheating.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that it may require an additional hour of cooking time on low.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the low sodium soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

What can I serve with teriyaki chicken?

Teriyaki chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad. You can also serve it with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients! Just ensure that your slow cooker is large enough to hold the extra volume.

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Time to Try It

Your kitchen awaits this delightful recipe! The Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is ready to become a staple in your meal rotation. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s a dish that you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for a busy week, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, dust off that slow cooker, and get ready to savor every bite!