Eloise Moon If you’re craving a dinner that’s equal parts flavorful, convenient, and wholesome, this Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is your new best friend. It’s packed with rich umami goodness, perfectly balanced by hints of sweetness and spice. Even better? It practically cooks itself in the slow cooker. With just a few pantry staples, minimal prep, and a hands-off cooking method, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal from the comfort of home.
In this complete guide, you’ll discover why this dish stands out, exactly how to prepare it, clever ways to serve it, and foolproof storage and reheating tips. It’s the ultimate dinner solution for busy weeknights, casual family meals, or easy meal prepping.
Why Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Is a Must-Make
Here are 7 reasons this recipe earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation:
- Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor – Simply toss the ingredients in the Crockpot and let it do the heavy lifting.
- Hands-Free Cooking – Great for multitaskers or anyone who values ease in the kitchen.
- Deep, Delicious Flavor – The slow cooking intensifies the teriyaki glaze and infuses the chicken with irresistible taste.
- Kid-Approved – Sweet, sticky, and savory flavors appeal to even the pickiest eaters.
- Versatile Serving Options – Serve over rice, noodles, veggies, or in wraps and sandwiches.
- Customizable – Easily modify the ingredients for dietary needs or taste preferences.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Makes enough for leftovers that reheat beautifully.
Ingredients You’ll Need (and Why They Matter)
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating that crave-worthy teriyaki flavor:
Core Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts – Thighs are juicier and more forgiving in a slow cooker.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce – The umami base of your teriyaki glaze.
- 1/4 cup honey – Adds natural sweetness and helps caramelize the sauce.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar – Provides depth and enhances the glossy finish.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar – Balances sweetness with a tangy contrast.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – Adds a signature nutty aroma.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic – For savory pungency.
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger – Fresh is best for a zesty kick.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water – Thickens the sauce to clingy perfection.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Pineapple chunks (for Hawaiian flair)
- Sliced bell peppers or broccoli (for texture and color)
- Red pepper flakes or Sriracha (for spice)
Equipment Checklist
To keep things ultra simple, you only need:
- 6-quart Crockpot or slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Tongs or two forks (for shredding)
- Airtight containers (for leftovers or meal prep)
Step-by-Step Guide to Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Whisk together the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Place the chicken in the Crockpot, then pour the sauce over the top.
Step 2: Let It Cook
Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2.5–3 hours, until chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Step 3: Shred and Return
Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Place it back into the Crockpot.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Stir together the cornstarch and water. Pour this slurry into the Crockpot and stir well. Cook on high for another 15–20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your liking.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve warm over rice or noodles.
Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
- Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results.
- Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry — it’s essential for that takeout-style finish.
- Add vegetables like broccoli, snow peas, or bell peppers in the last hour to avoid mushiness.
- Double the recipe if you have a larger Crockpot—it freezes beautifully!
- Toast your sesame seeds for extra nutty aroma.
Serving Ideas to Elevate Your Meal
Here’s how to turn Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken into a complete feast:
- Jasmine or Brown Rice – The classic, absorbent base.
- Cauliflower Rice – Low-carb and still satisfying.
- Soba or Udon Noodles – For an Asian-inspired twist.
- Lettuce Wraps – Fresh and crisp option for light eaters.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – Think broccoli, carrots, zucchini.
- Asian Cucumber Salad – Refreshing contrast to the rich sauce.
Customization Options (Make It Your Own)
- Spicy Kick – Add red chili flakes, Sriracha, or gochujang.
- Pineapple Twist – Stir in canned pineapple chunks.
- Vegetarian Option – Swap chicken for cubed tofu and reduce cooking time.
- Gluten-Free Version – Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.
- Low-Sugar Option – Reduce honey and sugar; add extra ginger for bite.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values based on 6 servings:
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Sugars: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 650mg
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
To Store:
Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 5 days. Best stored separately from rice.
To Freeze:
Let the dish cool fully, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
To Reheat:
- Microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring between each.
- Stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using regular soy sauce – It makes the dish overly salty.
- Adding veggies too early – They’ll overcook and become mushy.
- Skipping the slurry – The sauce will be watery and underwhelming.
- Using chicken breasts and overcooking – Breasts can dry out; monitor closely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but increase the cooking time by 1 hour and make sure the internal temp hits 165°F.
Can I prep this the night before?
Absolutely. Combine all ingredients (except slurry) in the Crockpot insert and refrigerate overnight.
Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce instead?
You can, but homemade offers better control of sugar, sodium, and flavor depth.
Is it okay to double the recipe?
Yes, just ensure your Crockpot is big enough. Add 30–60 minutes to cooking time.
What if the sauce is too salty or sweet?
Add a splash of water, rice vinegar, or even a squeeze of lemon juice to balance.
More Crockpot Recipes You’ll Love
- Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala – Creamy, spiced, and comforting.
- Crockpot BBQ Pulled Pork – Sweet, smoky, and sandwich-ready.
- Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken – Rich, buttery goodness in every bite.
- Crockpot Beef Stroganoff – A creamy classic made easy.
- Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs – Sweet, garlicky, and sticky perfection.
