Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that tantalizes your taste buds with the irresistible flavors of Homemade Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki. Bursting with savory goodness and infused with the sweet tang of teriyaki sauce, this dish is a testament to the wonders of slow cooking. Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice cook, or simply a lover of all things delicious, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. So, fire up your slow cooker and get ready to experience the ultimate in comfort food bliss.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 3/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup rice vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 4 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and ground ginger until well combined.
- Place the diced chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the teriyaki sauce mixture over them, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours or high heat for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in warm water to create a slurry.
- Stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker with the chicken, stirring gently to combine.
- Continue cooking on low heat for an additional 30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Serve the Homemade Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki over cooked rice or noodles, garnished with finely chopped green onions.
Cook Notes and Variations
- For added depth of flavor, marinate the diced chicken breasts in the teriyaki sauce mixture for 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking.
- Customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking. Bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas are all excellent options.
- Experiment with different protein options such as beef, pork, or tofu for a delicious twist on this classic dish.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version:
- Substitute the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
- Use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce to reduce the carb content.
- Serve the Chicken Teriyaki over cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles for a low-carb alternative.
Low-Carb Version:
- Reduce the amount of brown sugar used in the teriyaki sauce to lower the carb content.
- Swap out the rice vinegar for apple cider vinegar to further reduce carbs.
- Serve the dish with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb, gluten-free option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a delicious alternative and will add extra juiciness to the dish.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, Homemade Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki freezes well. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.
Q: Can I make this dish in advance? A: Certainly! You can prepare the teriyaki sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to cook, simply add the sauce and chicken to the slow cooker and follow the instructions as directed.
Q: Can I double the recipe? A: Absolutely! This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free? A: While the ingredients list is naturally gluten-free, be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to ensure the dish is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
In conclusion, Homemade Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and flavor. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that is sure to impress even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe offers endless versatility and deliciousness. So, embrace the convenience of your slow cooker and let the aromatic aroma of teriyaki sauce fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort. From busy weeknights to lazy Sundays, this Homemade Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki is a culinary masterpiece that never fails to delight.
