Name: Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger; 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for added flavor); 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for thickening); 1 cup diced carrots; 1 cup chopped bell peppers; 1/2 cup broccoli florets; Sesame seeds and green onions (for garnish)

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a wholesome, flavorful dinner option combining tender chicken, a sweet-savory teriyaki glaze, and fresh vegetables. It’s perfect for meal prepping, family dinners, or busy weeknights. This dish is light yet satisfying, packed with healthy ingredients, and delivers all the comforting flavors of classic Asian-inspired cuisine.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Use chicken thighs for juiciness: While chicken breasts work, thighs retain moisture better during slow cooking.
Don’t overcook: Check the chicken after 4 hours on low; slow cookers vary, and overcooking can dry the meat.
Make it a meal: Serve over brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthy side, and pair with steamed broccoli or snow peas.
Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker teriyaki sauce, mix cornstarch and water into a slurry and stir it in during the last 30 minutes.
Double the batch: This recipe freezes beautifully for quick, reheatable meals later in the week.
Add a fresh garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for added flavor and presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken recipe is a lifesaver for busy days when you want something both delicious and healthy. With minimal prep and pantry-staple ingredients, it requires little effort while delivering big on flavor. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the chicken with a rich teriyaki glaze as it becomes fork-tender. You’ll love how versatile it is—perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or a quick lunch with leftovers. It’s customizable, so you can adjust the sweetness, spice, or veggies to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste, making it ideal for anyone looking to eat clean without sacrificing flavor.

Yield: Serves 4

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken delivers juicy, tender meat in a savory glaze, perfect for healthy family meals or meal prep.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 4 hours

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)
1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup chopped bell peppers
1/2 cup broccoli florets
Sesame seeds and green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

Prep the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker in a single layer for even cooking.
Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil until smooth. Pour the sauce over the chicken.
Add Vegetables: Scatter diced carrots and bell peppers around the chicken. Reserve broccoli for later to prevent overcooking.
Set It and Forget It: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Thicken the Sauce: In the final 30 minutes, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir it into the sauce and add broccoli florets. Let the sauce thicken as the broccoli cooks.
Shred the Chicken: Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker or leave it whole if preferred.
Serve and Garnish: Serve hot over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a pop of flavor and color.

Notes

For a sweeter sauce, add an extra tablespoon of honey.
Keep an eye on the broccoli during the last 30 minutes to ensure it stays crisp-tender.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 561Total Fat 25gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 18gCholesterol 277mgSodium 1193mgCarbohydrates 30gFiber 4gSugar 20gProtein 59g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are best for tenderness and flavor, but chicken breasts work if you prefer leaner meat.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.
Honey: Adds natural sweetness; substitute with maple syrup or brown sugar if needed.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh is best, but garlic powder and ground ginger can work in a pinch.
Rice Vinegar: Balances the sweetness with a slight tang. Substitute with apple cider vinegar if unavailable.
Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce; you can also use arrowroot powder for a gluten-free option.
Vegetables: Add your favorites—bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli work beautifully.

Variations and Substitutions

Spicy Teriyaki: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and reduce the cooking time to 2 hours.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Pineapple Teriyaki: Stir in pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
No Slow Cooker: Simmer all ingredients in a skillet over low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add More Veggies: Snow peas, mushrooms, or zucchini can be added for extra nutrition.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warm.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Meal Prep: Divide into meal prep containers with rice and vegetables for easy grab-and-go lunches.