Slow Cooker Honey Teriyaki Chicken Effortless Weeknight Winner
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a weeknight dinner that’s easy but tastes amazing? Have you heard of the Slow Cooker Honey Teriyaki Chicken ? It’s bursting with a sweet and savory flavor.
Honestly, it’s so simple, even I can't mess it up!
Brief Overview
Teriyaki chicken has roots in Japanese cuisine, but this easy chicken recipe is my take on a classic. This recipe is super easy, taking only 15 minutes to prep.
It cooks for 4 to 6 hours and yields 4 to 6 servings.
Main Benefits
This honey teriyaki chicken is packed with protein. It's perfect for a cozy family friendly meal and tastes great. It's special because the slow cooker makes the chicken super tender.
What you'll need
Let's talk about the sauce ingredients
For the teriyaki sauce, you'll need cornstarch, water, brown sugar, honey, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
The chicken Ingredients
You'll also need an onion and 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Don't forget sesame seeds and scallions for garnish.
This slow cooker chicken is really versatile. This makes it a great recipe to have in your arsenal.
Optional Ingredients
If you don’t have rice wine or apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar or even a squeeze of lemon juice can work.
If you don't have fresh or ground ginger, a tiny pinch of allspice can add a subtle warmth. Maple syrup can be substituted for honey too.
Equipment
To make this dish, you'll need a small bowl, a saucepan, a whisk, and a 4-quart slow cooker. You'll also need two forks for shredding the chicken.
How to do it
First, whisk together cornstarch and water. Then, combine the ingredients and boil it for 1 minute. Finally, put all in the slow cooker and cook.
This Shredded chicken recipe can be served in bowl and is perfect when served with white rice!
Is this meal healthy?
This meal has about 350 to 450 calories. It also contains 35 to 45 grams of protein. This sweet and savory chicken is great for you.
You can also prepare this teriyaki chicken bowl easily!
Ingredients & Equipment for Your Slow Cooker Honey Teriyaki Chicken
Alright, let's talk about what you need to make this amazing Slow Cooker Honey Teriyaki Chicken . Honestly, it's so simple.
You'll wonder why you haven't been making this forever! It is a truly easy chicken recipe .
Main Ingredients: Chicken & Sauce Goodness
Okay, here’s the lowdown on the ingredients. We’ll start with the sauce, because that's where the magic happens.
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (7g) . This helps thicken the sauce. Don't skip it!
- Water: 1 tablespoon (15ml) , at room temp. This gets mixed with the cornstarch.
- Brown Sugar: 3 Tablespoons (50g) , packed. It adds a lovely, caramel like sweetness.
- Honey: 1/4 cup (85g) . It's in the name! Honey teriyaki chicken needs honey.
- Soy Sauce: 1/2 cup (120ml) . Low sodium is best so you can control the salt.
- Rice Wine Vinegar: 1/4 cup (60ml) . Apple cider vinegar works too, if you're in a pinch.
- Minced Garlic: 2 teaspoons . Garlic is life.
- Minced Fresh Ginger: 1-2 teaspoons (or 1/2 teaspoon ground). Ginger adds warmth and zing!
Now for the chicken:
- Onion: 1/2 medium, chopped. It creates a nice base of flavor.
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless (about 1.5-2 lbs / 680-900g total). It's slow cooker chicken time!
For the chicken breasts , aim for ones that look plump and pink. Avoid anything that looks pale or feels slimy. No one wants dodgy chicken!
Seasoning Notes: Sweet & Savory Symphony
The combination of honey, soy sauce, and ginger is what makes this sweet and savory chicken sing. I always add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
It really elevates the dish. You know?
If you don't have rice wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar works great. For a flavour enhancer, a dash of sesame oil at the end is chefs kiss!
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
Here's what you will need:
- A small bowl for mixing the cornstarch slurry.
- A medium saucepan for simmering the sauce.
- A whisk to keep the sauce smooth.
- A 4-quart or larger slow cooker . This is the star of the show.
- Two forks for shredding that shredded chicken recipe !
If you don't have a whisk, a fork works in a pinch. The key is to get the sauce nice and smooth.
The beauty of this crockpot chicken recipe is it’s so easy.
Unleash the Deliciousness: Slow Cooker Honey Teriyaki Chicken
Oh my gosh, you have to try this Slow Cooker Honey Teriyaki Chicken. It's literally the easiest thing ever! I got this recipe based on one from Sally, and honestly, it's been a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
This easy chicken recipe gives you tender, shredded chicken recipe coated in a ridiculously delicious honey teriyaki sauce. I'm talking sweet, savory, and a little bit tangy - the perfect trifecta.
Forget slaving away in the kitchen; this is a "set it and forget it" kind of deal. You know? Like popping something in the oven then watching Netflix.
Prep Like a Boss: Getting Ready
First things first, get all your bits and bobs ready. Chop half an onion. You know how it is; mise en place is your friend.
Mix up the teriyaki sauce in a bowl. This essential mise en place makes life so much easier. Trust me! It takes just 15 minutes to prep this weeknight chicken dinner and it's so worth it.
Slow Cooker Honey Teriyaki Chicken: The Foolproof Method
This method is SO simple!
- Whisk 1 tablespoon ( 7g ) cornstarch and 1 tablespoon ( 15ml ) water.
- Mix sauce: 3 Tablespoons ( 50g ) brown sugar, 1/4 cup ( 85g ) honey, 1/2 cup ( 120ml ) soy sauce, 1/4 cup ( 60ml ) vinegar, 2 teaspoons garlic, and ginger.
- Simmer on low until it boils. Boil for 1 minute .
- Pop the onion and chicken in the slow cooker.
- Pour that yummy sauce over the chicken.
- Cook on High for 3 hours or Low for 5 hours .
- Shred the chicken and mix it with the sauce.
- Cook for 1 more hour on Low.
Pro Tips for Maximum Flavour
Don't overcook the chicken. Honestly, nobody likes dry chicken. It will be dry! Low-sodium soy sauce is the way to go.
You can then adjust the sweetness to your taste. If you like a sweeter honey teriyaki chicken , add a bit more honey.
The cornstarch slurry? Super important! Do not skip this. It's the key to that perfect, glossy sauce.
This slow cooker chicken is a total game changer. Make a big batch, serve it with rice and veggies for a healthy chicken and rice recipe .
Or use it in teriyaki chicken bowl . It also freezes well, which means it's perfect for meal prepping or having a quick family friendly meal ready to go.
Enjoy the sweet and savory chicken ! It is so good.
Recipe Notes
Alright, let's talk about this Slow Cooker Honey Teriyaki Chicken recipe! I’ve made this so many times, I practically dream about it.
Honestly, it's a lifesaver on those crazy weeknights. I once forgot to add the honey. You know what? It still tasted great! The teriyaki chicken bowl was still a winner.
How to Serve Your Slow Cooker Chicken
Presentation is key, right? Plating can make all the difference. I like to serve my honey teriyaki chicken over rice.
Fluffy rice is the way to go. A sprinkle of sesame seeds is always a good idea. Some chopped scallions? Even better.
For sides, think steamed broccoli or green beans. A crisp coleslaw is delish, too.
Storage Know How
Got leftovers? No worries! This easy chicken recipe keeps well. Store the shredded chicken recipe in an airtight container. It should stay good in the fridge for 3-4 days .
For longer storage, freezing is an option. Just make sure to cool it completely first. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Remixing the Recipe
Want to mix things up a bit? You got it. For a dietary adaptation , try using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
This makes it gluten-free and lower in sodium. For a seasonal ingredient swap , try adding some chunks of pineapple in the summer.
It adds a lovely sweetness. Spicy? Throw in some sriracha!
What's Good For Ya
Okay, let’s talk nutrition basics . This slow cooker honey teriyaki chicken is a good source of protein. It's important for building and repairing tissues.
The honey and soy sauce add carbs. This is for energy, so, it fuels your day. Balance is key, innit? Load up on your veggies for a proper meal.
Making this crockpot chicken recipe is easy peasy. It’s a family friendly meals and my son really love it! Don't stress if you don't get it perfect the first time.
Cooking is all about experimenting. Go for it! You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken in this Slow cooker honey teriyaki chicken recipe?
While you can cook frozen chicken in a slow cooker, it's generally not recommended for food safety reasons, a bit like leaving your brolly at home when the forecast says rain. It takes longer to reach a safe internal temperature, which can allow bacteria to grow.
It's always best to thaw your chicken completely in the fridge before adding it to the slow cooker, ensuring a safer and tastier result.
My sauce isn't as thick as I'd like! What can I do to thicken up my Slow cooker honey teriyaki chicken sauce?
No worries, we've all been there! To thicken the sauce, carefully remove about a cup or two of the liquid from the slow cooker after the chicken is shredded. Then, simmer it in a saucepan over medium heat until it reduces to your desired consistency.
Think of it as giving your sauce a good "haircut" it'll be thicker and more manageable. You can then stir it back into the shredded chicken.
How long can I store leftover Slow cooker honey teriyaki chicken, and how should I reheat it?
Leftover Slow cooker honey teriyaki chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, a good innings for leftovers! To reheat, you can microwave it until heated through, or warm it up gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
A splash of water or chicken broth can help keep it moist when reheating on the hob. Just make sure it's piping hot before serving.
I'm watching my sodium intake; can I still enjoy this Slow cooker honey teriyaki chicken?
Absolutely! Using low-sodium soy sauce is the key here, much like ordering a skinny latte instead of a full fat one. You can also adjust the amount of soy sauce used and compensate with a little extra rice wine vinegar or honey to balance the flavors.
Be mindful of other ingredients that may contain sodium, and always taste as you go to adjust to your liking.
Can I make this Slow cooker honey teriyaki chicken in the Instant Pot instead of the slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot! Place all ingredients in the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then a quick release. Shred the chicken, then simmer on the "saute" function to thicken the sauce.
Consider it a quick trip to Flavor Town!
Slow Cooker Honey Teriyaki Chicken Effortless We
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350-450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 10-15g |
| Fiber | 2-3g |