Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker recipe allows the flavors to develop fully while keeping the chicken moist and tender. The balance of sweet honey, salty soy sauce, and aromatic ginger creates a classic teriyaki taste that’s both restaurant-quality and homey. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and perfect for meal prep or entertaining with minimal effort.

Ingredients

¼ cup (60 ml) low sodium soy sauce
¼ cup (60 ml) water
⅓ cup (110 g) honey
3 tablespoons mirin or rice vinegar
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
1½ lb (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
2 tablespoons green onions, sliced

Directions

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, honey, mirin (or rice vinegar), sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to make the teriyaki sauce.
Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred or slice as desired.
To thicken the sauce, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir into the slow cooker. Cook on high for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
Return the chicken to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Serve hot, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Pair with rice, noodles, or vegetables.

Servings and Timing

Makes about 4 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 2–5 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)
Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes to 5 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Spicy: Add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
Low-Sugar: Substitute honey with a sugar-free syrup or reduce the amount.
Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Crockpot-Free: Cook in a saucepan over medium heat for 20–25 minutes, simmering until chicken is cooked through and sauce is thickened.
Make-Ahead: Refrigerate cooked chicken and sauce separately for up to 3 days, then reheat gently before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs are even juicier and flavorful.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, freeze cooked chicken and sauce together for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How thick should the sauce be?

It should be pourable but slightly thickened to coat the chicken nicely. Adjust cornstarch as needed.

Can I add vegetables during cooking?

Yes, but add firmer vegetables like carrots or bell peppers during the last 1–2 hours of cooking on low to prevent overcooking.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a quick, effortless, and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for busy nights or meal prep. Sweet, savory, and aromatic, this dish pairs perfectly with rice or noodles and can be customized with vegetables or spice to suit your taste. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a family-friendly favorite that’s sure to become a weekly staple.