This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken leverages the gentle cooking power of the slow cooker to meld the flavors of soy, brown sugar, and spices into chicken that’s irresistibly juicy and flavorful. Here’s how you can create this dish with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
- 3/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup rice vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 4 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped for garnish
Directions:
Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Place the chopped chicken in the bottom of a 4-quart slow cooker.
Mix the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and ground ginger until well combined. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Cook:
Cover and set the slow cooker to low. Let the chicken cook for 4 to 5 hours until tender and fully cooked through.
Thicken the Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker. Mix the cornstarch with the warm water until it forms a smooth slurry. With the slow cooker set to a warm setting, gradually stir the cornstarch mixture into the teriyaki sauce to thicken it, ensuring to mix well to avoid lumps.
Combine and Serve:
Return the chicken to the slow cooker and stir well to coat with the thickened sauce. Sprinkle finely chopped green onions over the top for added flavor and color.
Serve the teriyaki chicken over a bed of steamed rice or with your choice of vegetables for a complete meal.
Variations and Serving Suggestions:
Add Vegetables: Towards the last hour of cooking, add broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to the slow cooker for a veggie boost.
Spice It Up: For a spicy kick, add a tablespoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce mixture.
Alternative Sweeteners: You can substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness.
Serving: Besides rice, this teriyaki chicken pairs wonderfully with noodles or can be served over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter option.
This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken recipe not only simplifies meal preparation but also enriches your dining experience with the deep, savory flavors of homemade teriyaki sauce. It’s a satisfying, no-stress meal perfect for any day of the week. Give this recipe a try, and discover just how delicious homemade Asian cuisine can be!