Description
Tender slow cooker teriyaki chicken cooked in a sweet and savory homemade sauce, resulting in juicy chicken coated in a rich flavorful glaze that pairs perfectly with rice or vegetables.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
- 3/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Place the chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil until well combined.
- Pour the teriyaki sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker and cook for 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Return the chicken to the slow cooker and coat it with the thickened sauce. Shred the chicken with two forks if desired.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
- Chicken thighs stay juicier during slow cooking, but chicken breasts can also be used.
- Add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas during the last 30 minutes for a complete meal.
- For a spicy variation, add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce.
- Increase the cornstarch slurry slightly if a thicker sauce is desired.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
