Description

This Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a perfectly balanced homemade teriyaki sauce. Slow-cooked to juicy, flavorful perfection with a rich savory-sweet glaze, it’s an effortless, healthy, and kid-friendly meal ideal for any weeknight dinner. Serve with steamed rice or veggies for a comforting and versatile dish that warms both your belly and heart.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

1.5 to 2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless

Teriyaki Sauce

1/2 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons honey
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Optional Thickening

1–2 teaspoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons cold water (to make slurry)

Garnishes

2 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

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Instructions

Prepare the Sauce: Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a medium bowl. Whisk until sugar dissolves and the mixture is well blended to create the signature teriyaki sauce.
Add the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a single layer in the slow cooker. Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated thoroughly to absorb the flavors.
Cook Low and Slow: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 4 to 6 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds. The slow cooking allows the sauce to thicken naturally and deeply flavor the meat.
Thicken the Sauce (optional): If a thicker sauce is desired, mix cornstarch with cold water to form a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before the end of cooking. Continue cooking until the sauce reaches a glossy, thick consistency.
Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, sprinkle with freshly chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately over steamed rice or with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for juiciness and tenderness; chicken breasts can be used but adjust cooking time to avoid drying out.
Fresh garlic and ginger significantly enhance the sauce’s flavor and aroma.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar and honey according to taste preferences.
Browning the chicken prior to slow cooking is optional but adds extra flavor.
Reserve a small amount of sauce before thickening to drizzle on top for added flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 12 g
Sodium: 780 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 30 g
Cholesterol: 90 mg