Crock-Pot Chicken Teriyaki

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Introduction:

Elevate your weeknight dinner game with the irresistible flavors of Crock-Pot Chicken Teriyaki. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender chunks of chicken with a savory-sweet teriyaki sauce that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a fuss-free meal or a home cook seeking a delicious dinner option, this Crock-Pot Chicken Teriyaki recipe is the perfect solution. Follow along as we guide you through the simple steps to create this mouthwatering dish in your slow cooker.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lbs chicken, diced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup teriyaki sauce
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Directions:

  1. Combine chicken broth, teriyaki sauce, brown sugar and garlic cloves in large bowl.
  2. Add chicken to sauce, and toss to combine.
  3. Pour chicken mixture into crock-pot.
  4. Cook on low 4-6 hours, or until chicken is cooked through.
  5. Serve over hot cooked rice and spoon extra sauce if desired.

Serving Tips:

  1. Garnish with Green Onions: Before serving, garnish your Crock-Pot Chicken Teriyaki with thinly sliced green onions. The fresh, vibrant flavor of the green onions adds a pop of color and a subtle oniony bite that complements the savory-sweet teriyaki sauce.
  2. Add a Side of Steamed Vegetables: Serve your Chicken Teriyaki alongside a side of steamed vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for a nutritious and well-balanced meal. The tender-crisp vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the tender chicken and rice.
  3. Top with Sesame Seeds: For an extra touch of flavor and texture, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the Chicken Teriyaki just before serving. The nutty flavor of the sesame seeds adds depth to the dish and enhances its visual appeal.
  4. Pair with Pickled Ginger: Serve pickled ginger on the side as a palate cleanser and flavor enhancer. The sweet and tangy taste of pickled ginger complements the richness of the Chicken Teriyaki, balancing out the flavors and refreshing the palate between bites.
  5. Serve with a Side of Asian Slaw: For a complete Asian-inspired meal, accompany your Crock-Pot Chicken Teriyaki with a side of crunchy Asian slaw. The crisp texture and tangy dressing of the slaw provide a refreshing contrast to the tender chicken and add an extra layer of flavor to the meal.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover Chicken Teriyaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation and maintain freshness.
  2. Reheat Before Serving: When reheating leftovers, gently warm the Chicken Teriyaki in a saucepan on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the chicken from drying out during reheating.
  3. Meal Prep: Use leftover Chicken Teriyaki as a delicious meal prep option for quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Divide the chicken into individual portions and store them in meal prep containers with cooked rice and steamed vegetables for convenient grab-and-go meals.
  4. Freezing: While Chicken Teriyaki can be frozen, keep in mind that the texture of the chicken may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
  5. Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen Chicken Teriyaki, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Alternatively, you can thaw the chicken more quickly by placing the sealed container in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use frozen chicken for this Crock-Pot Chicken Teriyaki recipe? While it’s generally recommended to use thawed chicken for even cooking, you can use frozen chicken in a Crock-Pot. However, ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.
  2. Can I double or halve the recipe quantities? Yes, you can adjust the quantities of ingredients to suit your needs. Simply double or halve the amounts of chicken, broth, teriyaki sauce, sugar, and garlic accordingly. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the quantity.
  3. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker? While the slow cooker method yields the best results, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop or oven cooking. Simmer the chicken and sauce in a covered pot on the stovetop over low heat or bake it in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until the chicken is cooked through.
  4. Is teriyaki sauce gluten-free? Traditional teriyaki sauce contains soy sauce, which often contains gluten. However, many brands offer gluten-free teriyaki sauce alternatives. Be sure to check the label or opt for homemade teriyaki sauce using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
  5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast? Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for chicken breast in this recipe. Chicken thighs are often juicier and more flavorful, but they may require slightly longer cooking times due to their higher fat content. Adjust the cooking time as needed until the chicken is cooked through.

Conclusion:

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of homemade Chicken Teriyaki right in the comfort of your own home. This Crock-Pot recipe takes the hassle out of cooking, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal with minimal hands-on time. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this Crock-Pot Chicken Teriyaki is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Try it tonight and experience the effortless deliciousness of slow-cooked comfort food.

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