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Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Easy

This Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken recipe delivers a flavorful and tender chicken dish with a glossy, homemade teriyaki glaze. By searing the chicken and using a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, this recipe avoids the common pitfalls of watery sauce and dry chicken often associated with slow cooker teriyaki chicken.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 - 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, for garnish
  • 2 green onions, sliced, for garnish

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • skillet
  • small bowl
  • whisk
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

  1. Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes.
  2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken cubes in batches until lightly browned on all sides.
  3. In the slow cooker, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  4. Place the browned chicken into the slow cooker and stir to coat with the teriyaki sauce.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or on high for 1.5-2 hours. Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
  7. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker and stir well.
  8. Cover and cook on high for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
  9. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
  10. Serve over rice or noodles.

Notes

For best results, sear the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker to enhance flavor and retain moisture. Adjust cooking time based on your slow cooker. This dish is great served with steamed rice or noodles and a side of vegetables. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.