The smell of sweet and savory teriyaki wafting through the house is like a warm hug after a long day. That’s why I’m excited to share my Easy Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken—a dish that not only fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas but also promises simplicity and flavor in every bite. Perfectly suited for those hectic weeknights, this recipe calls for just a handful of ingredients and takes minutes to prepare. The best part? It delivers tender chicken that effortlessly falls apart, along with crisp broccoli to keep things balanced. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just need a comforting meal for yourself, this Asian-inspired treasure is a true time-saver. Curious about how to make dinner easier and more delicious? Let’s dive in!
Why is Teriyaki Chicken a Weeknight Favorite?
Simplicity at your fingertips: This easy dump-and-go recipe requires minimal prep and just a few ingredients, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Irresistible aroma: The sweet and savory scent fills your home, turning dinner into a delightful experience.
Tender chicken: Slow cooking allows the chicken to become irresistibly tender, practically melting in your mouth!
Nutritional balance: Loaded with broccoli, it adds a fresh crunch and essential nutrients to your meal.
Versatile serving: Pair it with jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles for a complete dish that appeals to everyone. If you’re looking for more delicious ideas, check out my recipes for Grilled Chicken Pasta or Honey Hot Chicken.
Teriyaki Chicken Ingredients
• Here’s what you need for truly delectable Teriyaki Chicken!
For the Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The heart of this dish, delivering tender and juicy bites after hours in the slow cooker.
- 1 ½ cups teriyaki sauce – Infuses delightful sweetness and umami; feel free to use your favorite bottled version or whip up a homemade batch.
For the Veggies
- 3 cups broccoli florets – Adds a vibrant crunch and vital nutrients; to keep them fresh, add only during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Optional: Sliced bell peppers – A colorful addition that brings extra crunch and a hint of sweetness to your dish.
- Optional: Carrots – Thinly sliced, they enhance both flavor and nutrition while adding a beautiful splash of color.
For Thickening (Optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch – Perfect for achieving a glossy sauce; mix with a little water to create a slurry before adding it back to the crockpot.
- Sesame seeds – An optional garnish adding a nutty flavor and a delightful crunch when sprinkled on top just before serving.
Embrace the ease of making a family-favorite Teriyaki Chicken meal that’s full of flavor and as satisfying as it gets!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Ensure they are positioned in a single layer for even cooking. This forms the tender base of your Teriyaki Chicken. The chicken will absorb all the delicious flavors as it cooks, making it juicy and flavorful.
Step 2: Add the Teriyaki Sauce
Next, pour 1 ½ cups of teriyaki sauce over the chicken without stirring. Make sure the sauce evenly covers the chicken breasts. This step is crucial as the sauce will infuse into the chicken during cooking, allowing for that mouthwatering sweet and savory flavor combination that makes teriyaki so beloved.
Step 3: Set the Cooking Time
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on LOW for 6 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken is fully cooked when it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork. Avoid lifting the lid too early, as this can prolong cooking time and reduce moisture in the cooker.
Step 4: Add the Broccoli
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add in 3 cups of broccoli florets on top of the chicken without stirring. This will ensure the broccoli retains a vibrant color and crisp texture while absorbing some of the delicious teriyaki sauce. Cover the slow cooker once more to let everything meld together.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove about ½ cup of the cooking liquid before the final cooking phase ends. Mix this liquid with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to create a slurry, then return it to the slow cooker and cook uncovered for an additional 15 minutes. This will yield a glossy, rich sauce to coat your teriyaki chicken beautifully.
Step 6: Shred and Serve
Once cooking is complete, gently shred the chicken using two forks, mixing it into the sauce to ensure every piece is coated. Serve your Easy Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken over a bed of warm jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles for a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Teriyaki Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftover teriyaki chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This makes for an easy meal prep option, perfect for busy weeks ahead.
Freezer: If you want to save extra portions, freeze the teriyaki chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just remember to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw frozen teriyaki chicken overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to ensure the chicken stays tender and the sauce remains flavorful.
Make-Ahead Tip: For even more convenience, you can prepare the chicken and teriyaki sauce together in a freezer bag, ready to dump into the crockpot when you’re ready to cook!
What to Serve with Easy Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
A delightful meal isn’t just about the main dish; it’s about creating a harmonious dining experience that excites the palate.
- Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Complements the sweet teriyaki sauce perfectly, absorbing its flavors and providing a delightful base for the chicken.
- Brown Rice: For a heartier option, this nutty side adds an earthy flavor and a chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken.
- Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed with garlic add freshness and a subtle crunch, balancing out the richness of the teriyaki sauce.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy pockets filled with veggies or meat provide a satisfying contrast to the softness of the chicken, bringing an extra layer of texture.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with crisp cucumbers, sesame oil, and rice vinegar complements the savory chicken while adding a zesty kick to your meal.
- Chilled Mango Salad: The sweetness of fresh mango slices combined with a tangy dressing beautifully contrasts with the savory notes of teriyaki, making it a delightful side.
To truly elevate your meal, consider pairing it with a chilled glass of sparkling water infused with citrus slices or a light Asian-inspired beverage. Enjoy a fun, flavorful experience with each bite!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Easy Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can combine the chicken and teriyaki sauce in a freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator 24 hours before you plan to cook. This method ensures that the chicken stays flavorful and juicy, while the sauce infuses its sweetness perfectly. When you’re ready to serve, simply dump the contents into your slow cooker and follow the usual cooking instructions. Adding fresh broccoli or vegetables during the last 30 minutes right before serving will maintain their crispness, so you can enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Teriyaki Chicken: Deliciously Customizable
Feel free to get creative with your Teriyaki Chicken by exploring these delightful variations!
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or chili paste to the teriyaki sauce for an exciting heat. This fiery twist elevates the flavor profile, perfect for spice lovers.
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Rice Swap: Substitute jasmine rice with brown rice or noodles for a different texture. Brown rice offers nuttiness and a chewier bite, while noodles give a comforting slurp to your meal.
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Homemade Sauce: Make your own teriyaki sauce with soy sauce, honey, and ginger for a fresher taste. It’s a simple way to personalize flavors to suit your palate.
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Veggie Variety: Toss in sliced bell peppers or carrots for added color and crunch. These additions not only brighten the dish but also provide extra nutrition and vibrancy.
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Protein Options: Swap chicken with tofu or shrimp for a unique spin. Tofu absorbs all the tasty goodness, while shrimp cooks quickly and remains satisfying in each bite.
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Sweetness Balance: Drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the finished dish for a touch of sweetness. This adds a lovely finish to your flavor combination, harmonizing the savory elements.
If you’re looking to enhance your meal experience, consider pairing this with my delicious recipes like Chicken Teriyaki Noodles or a vibrant Chimichurri Grilled Chicken for the perfect dinner spread!
Expert Tips for Teriyaki Chicken
- Thaw First: Always thaw frozen chicken to ensure even cooking; starting with frozen may lead to an uncooked center.
- Lid Etiquette: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking; doing so can release heat and prolong your cooking time.
- Flavor Boost: Add minced garlic or ginger at the start for an added depth of flavor in your teriyaki chicken.
- Broccoli Timing: Add broccoli in the last 30 minutes to keep it bright and crunchy; overcooking can lead to mushiness.
- Cornstarch Slurry: If you prefer a thicker sauce finish, create a cornstarch slurry, mixing it with some cooking liquid before returning it to the crockpot.
Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor. They become tender and juicy during slow cooking, making them perfect for this teriyaki chicken dish. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, you can also use chicken thighs, which stay moist and add additional depth to the dish.
How should I store leftover teriyaki chicken?
Store any leftover teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You’ll love having an easy meal option for busy days! Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy, and it stays delicious.
Can I freeze teriyaki chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze the teriyaki chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and dump it straight into the slow cooker!
What if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
If you notice uneven cooking, it might be because you’ve overloaded the crockpot or you’re not using the right setting. Ensure that the chicken is in a single layer and that the lid stays closed during cooking. If you’re using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time by about 30-60 minutes, as it will take longer to reach a safe internal temperature.
Is this teriyaki chicken safe for pets?
I wouldn’t recommend sharing this dish with pets, particularly due to the teriyaki sauce, which could contain ingredients harmful to them like garlic or onion. Always check ingredients before offering any human food to your furry friends.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Very much! Feel free to add other vegetables such as sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Just add them in the last 30 minutes to keep them crunchy and vibrant. It also boosts the nutritional value, making this teriyaki chicken dish even better for you!
Teriyaki Chicken: Effortlessly Flavorful Slow Cooker Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by placing 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Next, pour 1 ½ cups of teriyaki sauce over the chicken without stirring.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for 6 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add in 3 cups of broccoli florets on top of the chicken.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove about ½ cup of the cooking liquid and mix with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to create a slurry.
- Once cooking is complete, gently shred the chicken using two forks, mixing it into the sauce.
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