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Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken – Sweet, Savory & Tender

This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is the ultimate weeknight dinner. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it combines juicy chicken thighs with a rich teriyaki sauce, sweetened with honey and brightened by garlic and ginger. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with tender, flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or steamed veggies. The best part? This recipe requires just a handful of ingredients and is naturally family-friendly. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions for a restaurant-quality finish right at home.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🍗 Meats:
  • 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs
🧄 Fruits & Vegetables:
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1 green onion sliced (for garnish)
🍯 Condiments:
  • 1 cup teriyaki sauce
  • ¼ cup honey
🌿 Spices & Seasonings:
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch for slurry
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Equipment

  • Slow cooker (4–6 quart)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

Step 1 – Prep the Sauce
  1. In a bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
Step 2 – Add Chicken to Slow Cooker
  1. Place chicken thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. Pour sauce mixture over the chicken.
Step 3 – Cook
  1. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Step 4 – Thicken the Sauce
  1. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water to make a slurry.
  2. Remove chicken and set aside; stir slurry into sauce.
  3. Turn slow cooker to HIGH and cook for another 15 minutes until sauce thickens.
Step 5 – Serve
  1. Return chicken to sauce and coat well.
  2. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in airtight container up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled chicken with sauce for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm on stovetop over medium heat or microwave with a splash of water to loosen sauce.
🥄 Variations
Spicy Kick: Add red chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
Veggie Boost: Add broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas in the last 30 minutes.
Chicken Swap: Use chicken breasts instead of thighs for leaner meat.
Honey-Garlic Style: Increase honey and garlic for a sweeter, garlicky sauce.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?
Yes, it works perfectly — or make your own if preferred.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw first for even cooking.
Do I need to sear the chicken first?
Not necessary, but searing adds extra flavor.
Can I cook this on the stovetop?
Yes, simmer chicken in sauce 25–30 minutes until cooked through.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce.
What’s the best way to serve it?
Over steamed rice, noodles, or sautéed veggies.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger slow cooker.
Will chicken breasts dry out?
They can — thighs are more forgiving. If using breasts, cook on LOW.
How do I know when it’s done?
Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) internal temp.
Can I meal prep with this?
Absolutely — portion into containers with rice and veggies for easy lunches.
🏁 Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is sweet, savory, and oh-so-tender. With minimal effort and bold flavors, it’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or meal prep. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh green onions takes it to the next level, making every bite taste like takeout made at home.