Save to Pinterest Tender chicken simmered in a savory-sweet homemade teriyaki sauce served over fluffy steamed rice. Perfect for a fuss-free weeknight dinner with minimal prep.
I first made this slow cooker teriyaki chicken on a busy weekday when I needed supper ready with little effort. The aroma that greeted us at dinnertime made everyone eager to dig in.
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Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: 4 pieces
- Vegetable oil: 1 tablespoon
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Low-sodium soy sauce: 1/2 cup
- Honey: 1/4 cup
- Brown sugar: 1/4 cup, packed
- Rice vinegar: 3 tablespoons
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Fresh ginger: 1 tablespoon grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
- Cold water: 1/4 cup
- Sesame oil: 2 tablespoons (optional)
- Jasmine or long-grain white rice: 2 cups uncooked
- Green onions: 2, sliced
- Toasted sesame seeds: 1 tablespoon
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Instructions
- Season Chicken:
- Season chicken on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear Chicken:
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned (optional, enhances flavor).
- Arrange in Slow Cooker:
- Place chicken in the slow cooker.
- Make Teriyaki Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil (if using). Pour over chicken.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours, or until chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Thicken Sauce:
- About 30 minutes before serving, whisk cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir into the slow cooker.
- Finish Cooking:
- Cover and cook on high for 20–30 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
- Prepare Rice:
- Meanwhile, cook rice according to package instructions.
- Shred Chicken:
- Shred or slice chicken, return to sauce, and mix well.
- Serve:
- Serve teriyaki chicken over steamed rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Save to Pinterest The family always gathers around the table a little earlier when they know teriyaki chicken is on the menu. It's a favorite that brings everyone together and makes dinners special.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair your teriyaki chicken and rice meal with a crisp white wine like Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc for a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.
Tools You'll Need
You'll need a slow cooker, mixing bowls, and a rice cooker or saucepan to make this recipe a breeze from start to finish.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 490 Protein: 35g Carbohydrates: 72g Total Fat: 7g
Save to Pinterest 
This teriyaki chicken is a comforting classic that's sure to become a weeknight favorite. Leftovers taste delicious the next day.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra tenderness to the dish.
- → How do I thicken the teriyaki sauce?
Whisk cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking to achieve a thick glaze.
- → Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely, mixing the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic, and ginger ahead saves time and enhances flavor.
- → What type of rice pairs best with this dish?
Jasmine or long-grain white rice complements the savory-sweet flavors and provides a fluffy base.
- → Are there any recommended vegetable additions?
Steamed broccoli or snap peas added before serving add freshness and texture to the meal.
