Whip Up Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken for a Family-Friendly Feast

Craving an easy, flavor-packed meal that practically makes itself? Look no further than Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken! This slow cooker recipe combines tender chicken, sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, and colorful veggies for a delicious dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a mouthwatering Asian-inspired meal ready to enjoy in just a few hours.

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The History and Appeal of Teriyaki Cuisine

Teriyaki sauce has its roots in Japanese cooking, where it was originally used as a marinade for grilled meats. The word “teriyaki” comes from the Japanese words “teri,” meaning “luster,” and “yaki,” meaning “to broil or grill.” Over time, teriyaki has become a beloved flavor profile around the world, known for its perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory notes.

What makes Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken so appealing is its convenience and versatility. By letting the slow cooker do the work, you can enjoy the rich, umami-packed flavors of teriyaki without the hassle of babysitting a dish on the stove or grill. Plus, the addition of pineapple chunks and bell peppers adds a delightful mix of sweetness and crunch to the final dish.

Ingredients for Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

• Chicken Thighs: Juicy, flavorful chicken thighs are the perfect cut for this recipe. They stay moist and tender throughout the long cooking time in the crockpot.
• Teriyaki Sauce: Look for a high-quality teriyaki sauce that contains a blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and other seasonings. This will provide the signature sweet and savory flavor profile.
• Pineapple Chunks: Fresh or canned pineapple adds a lovely sweetness and tropical flair to the dish. The juices also help to tenderize the chicken.
• Bell Pepper: Sliced bell pepper contributes color, crunch, and nutritional value to the overall meal.

For the best results, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. The flavors will really shine through when you start with the right building blocks.

How to Make Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Making Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken couldn’t be easier. Simply follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker to prevent sticking.
2. Add the Ingredients: Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the top, then add the pineapple chunks and sliced bell pepper.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Serve: Remove the chicken and vegetables from the crockpot. Slice the chicken if desired, and serve everything over steamed rice or noodles. Be sure to spoon some of the extra sauce from the crockpot over the top.

Adjust the cooking time as needed, based on your specific crockpot model. The key is to cook the chicken until it’s fall-off-the-bone tender and infused with the incredible teriyaki flavor.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

One serving of Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken (about 1 cup) contains approximately 320 calories, 32g of protein, 16g of carbs, and 15g of fat. The chicken provides a lean source of protein, while the pineapple and bell pepper offer vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Compared to ordering takeout teriyaki chicken, this homemade version is generally lower in sodium and sugar, making it a healthier option. Plus, you have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring the dish aligns with your dietary needs and preferences.

Variations and Modifications

One of the best things about Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is its versatility. Here are some ideas for variations and modifications:

• Protein Swaps: Try using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or even cubed pork or tofu in place of the chicken thighs.
• Vegetable Additions: Mix in broccoli florets, snap peas, mushrooms, or any other veggie you enjoy.
• Flavor Profiles: Customize the sauce by adding a bit of sriracha or ginger for a spicier version, or a splash of pineapple juice for extra sweetness.
• Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce. To reduce carbs, serve the chicken over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to making this crockpot dish your own!

Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

The great thing about Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is that it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some tasty serving suggestions:

• Rice: Serve the chicken and veggies over a bed of steamed white, brown, or even cauliflower rice.
• Noodles: Try pairing the teriyaki chicken with udon, soba, or rice noodles for a heartier meal.
• Garnishes: Top the dish with toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor and texture.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Barbecue Pineapple Chicken
• Pineapple Chicken and Rice
• Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put teriyaki sauce in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Teriyaki sauce is an excellent choice for slow cooker recipes, as the long cooking time allows the flavors to meld and intensify. The sauce won’t break down or separate when cooked in a crockpot.

How to cook teriyaki chicken in the slow cooker?

To cook teriyaki chicken in the slow cooker, simply place the chicken in the crockpot, pour the teriyaki sauce over the top, and add any additional ingredients like vegetables or pineapple. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Do you add teriyaki sauce before or after cooking chicken?

For this Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken recipe, you’ll want to add the teriyaki sauce before cooking. This allows the chicken to marinate and absorb all the delicious flavors as it slowly cooks in the crockpot.

Can I put chicken and jar of sauce in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can absolutely put chicken and a jar of teriyaki sauce directly into the slow cooker. This is one of the easiest ways to make teriyaki chicken in the crockpot. Just be sure to choose a high-quality teriyaki sauce that you enjoy the flavor of, as it will be the primary seasoning for the dish.

Conclusion

Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is the ultimate easy, hands-off dinner that delivers big on flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a delicious Asian-inspired meal ready to enjoy in just a few hours. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work, leaving you free to tackle other tasks or simply relax. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or alongside your favorite veggies, this Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is sure to become a new family favorite.

Looking for more visual inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest, where I share new recipes, dinner tips, and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments every week. Buon appetito!

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