Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Recipe 5-Ingredient Easy Homemade Meal
A simple and delicious slow cooker teriyaki chicken recipe using only five ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights and minimal cleanup. The chicken is tender and juicy with a sweet-savory glaze.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
- Optional: sliced green onions for garnish
- Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for thickening sauce)
Instructions
- Pat dry 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs and trim excess fat if desired.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger. Stir until sugar is mostly dissolved.
- Place chicken thighs in a single layer in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken without stirring.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Optional: About 15 minutes before serving, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into the sauce. Cook uncovered on high for 15 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
Use chicken thighs for juiciness and tenderness; chicken breasts can be used but cook for less time to avoid drying out. Fresh garlic and ginger are recommended for best flavor. Sauce can be prepared the night before. For thicker sauce, use cornstarch slurry. Broil chicken 2-3 minutes before serving for caramelized finish. Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free version and erythritol or monk fruit for sugar-free version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 6 ounc
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 14
- Sodium: 700
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Protein: 25
Keywords: slow cooker, teriyaki chicken, easy recipe, 5 ingredients, homemade meal, weeknight dinner, crock-pot, simple sauce