Amazing Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Simple Teriyaki Delight
Once upon a time, in a warm, sun-soaked kitchen filled with the aroma of rich spices, a girl grew up embracing the vibrant flavors of Mexico. As she helped her mama press tortillas and learned the secrets of seasoning from her abuela, she discovered that food is more than just sustenance—it’s an expression of love, laughter, and memories. Now living in Orlando, she carries a piece of Oaxaca within her heart, sharing cherished recipes that evoke the warmth and joy of home-cooked meals. Today, she brings you a delightful fusion dish: Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken, so you too can create delicious moments around your table.
This simple yet unforgettable Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken recipe is the perfect solution for busy evenings when you crave something flavorful without too much fuss. Let your slow cooker do all the work while your kitchen fills with the mouthwatering aroma of tender chicken drenched in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. In just a few short steps, you can serve up a dish that’s sure to please the whole family, satisfying all taste buds with its deliciously rich flavors.
Quick Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 4-6 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Best Season: Year-round
What Makes This Dish Stand Out
Effortless Preparation: This recipe is perfect for those hectic weekdays when you want to come home to a warm, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply dump everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, honey, and ginger creates a deeply rich and satisfying teriyaki sauce that envelops the chicken, making every bite a burst of flavor.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spice level according to your preference, making it a versatile dish that can cater to different tastes, from mild to a little spicy.
Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this dish, making it a hit for family dinners or gatherings. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1.5-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Smart Cooking Tips
- Chicken: Use thighs for a juicier option, or breasts if you prefer a leaner meat. Both work beautifully in this recipe.
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish balanced without too much saltiness.
- Honey/Brown Sugar: Honey adds a lovely floral note, while brown sugar offers a deeper molasses flavor. You can even mix them for a unique sweetness!
- Vinegar: Rice vinegar gives a subtle tang, but you can also use apple cider vinegar for a bit more complexity.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker, spreading them out evenly.
- Make the Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil (if using), and red pepper flakes until combined.
- Combine: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Set the Cooker: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, depending on your schedule.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Thicken the Sauce: To thicken the sauce, whisk together cornstarch and water to form a slurry, then stir it into the remaining sauce. Turn the heat to high and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until thickened.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the teriyaki chicken over a bed of warm rice or noodles, then garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and texture.
Pro Pointers for Best Results
- Always use fresh garlic and ginger for an uplifting flavor that powdered versions can’t match.
- If you prepare the dish ahead of time, you can keep the sauce separate and pour it over the chicken right before cooking to enhance the flavors.
- For those who prefer a sweeter sauce, consider adding a splash of pineapple juice or some diced pineapples in the last hour of cooking.
- Letting the cooked chicken rest briefly before shredding will help retain moisture, resulting in tender shreds.
Fun Variations to Try
- Vegan Delight: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Press and cube the tofu for the best texture and follow the same cooking method.
- Spicy Kick: For a fiery version, add in sliced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes to your sauce to bring some heat to this dish.
- Pineapple Teriyaki: Toss in some chunks of pineapple during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a sweet and delectable tropical twist.
- Regional Influence: Try a Hawaiian-inspired version by adding in diced bell peppers and onions for crunch, or serve it with coconut rice for that island feel.
Perfect Pairings
To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing your teriyaki chicken with a refreshing cucumber salad, a light Asian slaw, or a side of steamed broccoli. For drinks, a chilled glass of ginger ale or iced green tea will complement the flavors. Round off the meal with a delicate coconut panna cotta for dessert, and you have a truly delightful dining experience!
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
To prepare this dish in advance, you can assemble all the ingredients in a ziplock bag and freeze it. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then dump everything into the slow cooker. Once cooked, the leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the shredded chicken in portioned bags for up to 3 months. Reheat using a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to retain moisture.
Presentation and Serving Ideas
When it comes to serving, a simple bowl of rice makes a beautiful base for your teriyaki chicken. If you’re feeling creative, use a large platter for a family-style meal, garnished with green onions, sesame seeds, and maybe even some colorful bell pepper strips for a pop of color. Setting the table with chopsticks and adding a few small bowls of soy sauce or pickled vegetables can enhance the atmosphere, making your dinner feel like a special occasion every time.
Kitchen Secrets for Success
- Consider marinating the chicken overnight for an even deeper flavor infusion.
- If you want an extra layer of flavor, sear the chicken in a hot pan before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Substituting coconut aminos for soy sauce can make the dish a bit sweeter and gluten-free.
- For a lovely finish, drizzle a bit of additional sesame oil over the finished dish for richness.
Proper Storage and Reheating
When storing leftovers, cool the chicken completely before sealing it in an airtight container. It can be reheated easily in the microwave, but for better texture, consider warming it up on the stovetop. Adding a tablespoon of water can help maintain moisture. Gently stir until heated through, and serve immediately for best results.
Your Questions Answered
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes! You can add frozen chicken directly to the slow cooker, but ensure that you adjust the cooking time to ensure thorough cooking.
2. How can I keep the chicken from drying out?
Cooking it on low for the recommended time will keep the chicken moist. Also, remember to shred it while it’s still warm to use it in the sauce quickly.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure your slow cooker can accommodate the extra ingredients, and you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
4. What can I use instead of honey?
If you prefer not to use honey, try agave syrup, maple syrup, or even brown sugar for a similar sweetness.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Substitute low-sodium soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to make it gluten-free.
6. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is by checking the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C) for poultry.
7. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas can be added in the last hour of cooking for a delicious one-pot meal.
Nutrition Info
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: ~300
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 25g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary.
A Warm Reflection
This Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken embodies the essence of home cooking—simple yet profound flavors that unite family and friends around the table. Whether you’re serving it for a weekly family meal or sharing it with guests for a special occasion, this dish is not just about feeding the body but nourishing the soul. From bustling kitchen to cozy dinner table, it carries the spirit of love and warmth, reminding us of the joy that comes from sharing meals and creating memories together.
Ending on a Delicious Note
As you embark on the journey of making this delightful Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken, remember that every ingredient tells a story, just like each bite evokes laughter and joy. Share your culinary creations with loved ones, spread the warmth of good food, and don’t forget to pin this recipe for your next flavorful feast! Happy cooking!
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Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
- Total Time: 250 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Effortless and flavorful teriyaki chicken cooked in a slow cooker, perfect for busy evenings.
Ingredients
- 1.5–2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker, spreading them out evenly.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil (if using), and red pepper flakes until combined.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, depending on your schedule.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- To thicken the sauce, whisk together cornstarch and water to form a slurry, then stir it into the remaining sauce. Turn the heat to high and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until thickened.
- Ladle the teriyaki chicken over a bed of warm rice or noodles, then garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor.
Notes
Consider marinating the chicken overnight for deeper flavor. For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
