Slow-Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Our Test Kitchen-approved slow-cooker teriyaki chicken recipe brings a delightful Asian-inspired meal to your dinner table without the fuss. Juicy chicken thighs simmer in a homemade teriyaki sauce that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor and, thanks to the slow cooking process, ensures it’s fall-apart tender with every bite.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—swap the thighs for chicken breasts, add your favorite vegetables or sprinkle some sesame seeds over the top for a personalized twist on this easily customizable slow cooker chicken dish.

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Ingredients

• Chicken thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the star of this recipe. They provide rich flavor to the dish and stay tender during the long slow cooking process.
• Onion, garlic and ginger: These three fresh aromatics create a flavorful base for the teriyaki sauce.
• Chicken broth: Chicken broth forms the liquid base of the sauce. Here’s how to make your own chicken broth at home.
• Soy sauce: The key ingredient in teriyaki sauce, soy sauce provides a deep umami flavor and its characteristic saltiness.
• Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps create a glossy finish on the chicken. Here’s a list of our favorite store-bought honey.
• Red pepper flakes: Crushed red pepper flakes bring a subtle heat to balance the sweet and savory flavors in this slow cooker teriyaki chicken. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
• Cornstarch and water: A cornstarch slurry is used to thicken the sauce, giving it that perfect teriyaki glaze at the end of cooking.
• Rice: Hot cooked rice accompanies the tender, slow cooked teriyaki chicken for a complete meal.
• Cilantro and sesame seeds (optional): While optional toppings, fresh cilantro and sesame seeds add a pop of color and extra flavor to the dish before serving.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a 3- or 4-quart slow cooker. Top with sliced onion, minced garlic and ginger.

Step 2: Make the teriyaki sauce

In a medium bowl, combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, crushed red pepper flakes and pepper. Stir until well mixed and then pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.

Editor’s Tip: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or omit them altogether.

Step 3: Slow cook the chicken thighs

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-1/2 to 4 hours or until the chicken is no longer pink and is tender enough to shred easily. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Thicken the sauce

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Gradually stir this slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 15 to 30 minutes until the sauce has thickened.

Step 5: Shred, serve and garnish

While the sauce is thickening, shred the chicken using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat it with the thickened teriyaki sauce.

Serve the teriyaki chicken over hot cooked rice. If desired, garnish with minced fresh cilantro and sesame seeds.

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Variations

• Use different proteins: Substitute chicken thighs with a lean meat alternative like pork tenderloin for a different take on this slow cooker meal.
• Give it a vegetable boost: Stir in steamed broccoli, snap peas or bell peppers or broccoli florets during the last 30 minutes of cooking to make the meal more balanced and nutritious.
• Add a tropical twist: Include chunks of fresh pineapple for a tropical twist on the classic teriyaki flavor.
• Make rice bowls: Serve leftovers over rice with steamed edamame and sliced avocado for a hearty work meal.

How to Store Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Store any leftovers of this slow cooker teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. The flavors often improve after a day, making this a great make-ahead meal option.

Can you freeze slow cooker teriyaki Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Store the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Tips

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for slow cooker teriyaki chicken?

Yes, you can easily substitute chicken breasts for thighs in this recipe. However, chicken breasts are leaner and will cook faster. Check for doneness around the three hour mark to prevent overcooking.

Can I use a different type of soy sauce?

If you’re watching your salt intake, swap out the soy sauce for a low-sodium soy sauce. Coconut aminos or tamari can also be used as gluten-free alternatives.