Sink your fork into tender, juicy chicken simmered in a glossy, flavor-packed teriyaki sauce—sweet, savory, and just the right amount of umami. This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and your bowl with satisfying comfort. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe lets your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting while you go about your day.

The magic happens low and slow: chicken breasts or thighs soak up the rich teriyaki glaze made from soy sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, and a splash of sesame oil. Served over fluffy rice and garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, this dish is a simple yet stunning solution for anyone craving a no-fuss, family-approved dinner.

Ingredients for this Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh grated ginger (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp water
2 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
2–3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked rice (white or brown), for serving

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the base of your slow cooker. Make sure they’re arranged in a single layer so they cook evenly and absorb the sauce well.

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and ginger. Pour this flavorful mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring each piece is coated.

Step 3: Slow Cook It Low and Easy

Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2.5–3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender enough to shred with a fork.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred or slice it as desired. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Stir this into the sauce in the slow cooker, then return the chicken and stir everything together.

Cover and cook on high for another 15–20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to a glossy glaze that clings to the chicken.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve the teriyaki chicken over warm rice. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions for a finishing touch that adds crunch and color. Add steamed veggies on the side if you want a complete meal.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator:
Store any leftover Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure the chicken is fully cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer:
This dish freezes beautifully! Transfer the cooled chicken and sauce into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Store flat to save space, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Tips:
Reheat in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, or warm on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.

Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving; based on 6 servings)

Calories: 280
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugar: 10g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 680mg
Fiber: 0g

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the most flavorful and stay moist during slow cooking, but chicken breasts work well too if you prefer leaner meat.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes! If you’re short on time, swap the homemade sauce for about 1 cup of store-bought teriyaki sauce. Just keep in mind, it may be saltier or sweeter depending on the brand.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) and check that all other ingredients, including rice vinegar, are certified gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Absolutely! Add chopped bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking to keep them from getting too soft.

What sides go well with teriyaki chicken?

It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles, and a side of stir-fried vegetables or edamame makes it a complete meal.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your slow cooker has enough room. If doubling, you might need to increase the cooking time by about 30–60 minutes on low.

How can I make it spicier?

Add 1–2 teaspoons of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick without overpowering the teriyaki flavor.

Is this good for meal prep?

Definitely. It reheats well and holds up great in the fridge, making it a fantastic meal prep option for easy lunches and dinners throughout the week.

Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Author: Nora Sinclair
Total Time: 34 minute
Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Description

Let your slow cooker bring dinner to life with this irresistible Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken! This easy dinner idea is perfect for busy nights when you crave something savory, comforting, and satisfying. Tender chicken simmers in a rich homemade teriyaki sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, honey, and ginger until it becomes fall-apart delicious. Whether you need a quick meal prep option, healthy snack idea, or something to shake up your list of go-to dinner recipes, this dish delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Served over rice and topped with sesame seeds and green onions, it’s a balanced, mouthwatering crowd-pleaser that deserves a permanent spot on your weeknight rotation.

Instructions

Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker.
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
Pour the sauce over the chicken, coating evenly.
Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2.5–3 hours, until chicken is cooked through and tender.
Remove chicken and shred or slice as preferred.
Mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry, then stir into the sauce in the slow cooker.
Return chicken to the slow cooker, stir, and cook on high for 15–20 minutes until sauce thickens.
Serve over rice and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4–5 hours on low / 2.5–3 hours on high
Category: Dinner