Welcome to a recipe that’s as easy as it gets! If you’re looking for a flavorful, no-fuss meal that practically cooks itself, this Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is your answer. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a delicious, tender chicken dish infused with sweet and savory teriyaki flavors ready by dinnertime. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this slow cooker recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
I love recipes that save time without sacrificing taste, and this one checks all the boxes. Simply toss everything into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it until you’re ready to eat. The result is juicy chicken coated in a sticky, homemade teriyaki sauce that pairs beautifully with rice or veggies. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this dish is approachable and endlessly customizable.
Stick around as we dive into the details of making this effortless meal. From the ingredients to step-by-step instructions, I’ve got you covered with tips to ensure success every time. Let’s get started on this crowd-pleaser!
There’s something magical about a recipe that requires almost no effort yet delivers big on flavor, and that’s exactly what you’ll find with Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken. This dish is a lifesaver for anyone juggling a busy schedule, offering a way to put a hearty, homemade meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, transforming simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dinner.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. No need for pre-cooking or complicated techniques—just dump the ingredients into your crockpot, give it a quick stir, and let time work its magic. The chicken absorbs the rich, tangy teriyaki sauce as it cooks, resulting in a tender, flavorful protein that’s perfect for pairing with steamed rice, noodles, or a side of veggies.
Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is designed to make your life easier. I’ve included tips for customization and storage, so you can adapt it to your needs. Let’s explore how to bring this effortless dish to life!
Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Category: Main Dish
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 4-6 hours 5 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
What You’ll Need
To whip up this Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken, you’ll need a few basic ingredients, each playing a key role in building that signature sweet and savory flavor. The chicken serves as the hearty base, soaking up the sauce as it cooks low and slow. Soy sauce provides the salty, umami backbone of the teriyaki glaze, while honey or brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
Garlic and ginger bring depth and a subtle kick, enhancing the Asian-inspired profile of the dish. Cornstarch is used toward the end to thicken the sauce, giving it that glossy, sticky texture we all love in teriyaki. Optional ingredients like sesame oil or red pepper flakes can add an extra layer of complexity if you’re feeling adventurous. With these components, you’ll create a dish that’s both comforting and full of character.
Gather these simple elements for an effortless teriyaki chicken meal
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 and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
PREPARATION
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the bottom of your slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, ginger, sesame oil (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Give it a quick stir to make sure the chicken is submerged or coated in the sauce.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- To thicken the sauce, mix the cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water) and stir it into the liquid in the slow cooker. Cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve the teriyaki chicken over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 18g
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Choosing the Right Cut of Chicken
When making Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken, the cut of chicken you use can impact the texture and flavor. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and work well if you’re watching fat intake, but they can dry out if overcooked. Chicken thighs, on the other hand, are juicier and more forgiving, staying tender even after long cooking times. Choose based on your preference, but thighs often yield the best results in slow cooker recipes.
Customizing the Teriyaki Sauce
The beauty of this recipe is how easily you can tweak the sauce. If you prefer a sweeter profile, add an extra tablespoon of honey or brown sugar. For a tangier kick, increase the rice vinegar or toss in a splash of pineapple juice. Want some heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha can spice things up. Play around with the ratios to make it your own!
Adding Vegetables for a Complete Meal
Turn this dish into a one-pot wonder by adding veggies to the slow cooker. Options like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers work beautifully, soaking up the teriyaki flavors. Add them during the last 1-2 hours of cooking to avoid over-softening. This not only saves on cleanup but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal.
Best Sides to Pair With Teriyaki Chicken
This dish shines when paired with the right sides. Steamed white rice or brown rice is a classic choice, soaking up the sticky sauce. For a lighter option, try cauliflower rice or quinoa. Noodles like udon or soba also make a fantastic base. Round it out with a side of steamed edamame or a simple cucumber salad for balance.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftovers of this Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken store wonderfully, making it ideal for meal prep. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm it on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Scaling the Recipe for Larger Crowds
Feeding a bigger group? Double the ingredients and ensure your slow cooker can handle the volume (a 6-quart model works well for larger batches). Cooking times may increase slightly, so check the chicken for tenderness around the 5-6 hour mark on low. This recipe adapts easily, making it perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking and better sauce absorption. If you must use frozen, add an extra 1-2 hours to the cooking time on low. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to confirm it’s fully cooked. Thawing overnight in the fridge is ideal for safety and quality.
Can I Make This Without a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can use a Dutch oven or heavy pot in the oven at 300°F for about 2-3 hours, or cook it on the stovetop over low heat for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally. You can also use an Instant Pot on the slow cook setting for similar results.
How Do I Prevent the Sauce From Being Too Salty?
To avoid an overly salty sauce, always use low-sodium soy sauce as a base. Taste the sauce before adding it to the chicken, and if it still feels too strong, dilute it with a bit of water or extra honey to balance the flavors. You can also reduce the soy sauce slightly and replace it with broth if needed.
Enjoy the simplicity of this slow-cooked teriyaki chicken dinner!
Conclusion
There you have it—a simple, flavorful Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. With minimal effort and maximum taste, this dish proves that you don’t need to spend hours cooking to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or prepping it for the week ahead, it’s a versatile option that everyone will love.
Ready to give it a try? Grab your slow cooker and let’s get cooking! If you have any questions or want to share your own twists on this recipe, feel free to drop a comment below. For more easy dinner ideas, check out other recipes on the blog like this one at Easy Slow Cooker Meals. Happy cooking!
