As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of ginger and garlic filled the air, whisking me away to a faraway land where culinary traditions blend seamlessly with innovative flavors. This is the magic of my Easy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Wings, a dish that not only delights the palate but also brings everyone together. Perfect for game days or intimate get-togethers, these wings deliver on two vital fronts: effortless preparation and finger-licking goodness. With a trusty slow cooker doing most of the work, you’ll have more time to mingle with friends while serving up the ultimate party appetizer. Who doesn’t crave sticky, tender wings coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce? Ready for a taste adventure that’s as easy as it is delicious?
Why will you love these wings?
Effortless Preparation: Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker—so simple that even beginners can impress!
Savory Satisfaction: The blend of garlic and ginger infuses the chicken with mouthwatering flavors, making every bite irresistible.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these wings will wow your friends at game day or any celebration.
Customize Easily: Mix it up by swapping chicken wings for drumsticks or using your own homemade teriyaki sauce for a personal touch.
Making Ahead: Prep in advance, allowing you to enjoy stress-free entertaining while letting your slow cooker work its magic.
Sticky Goodness: The sweet glaze and tender meat create a delightful experience that keeps everyone coming back for more!
Teriyaki Chicken Wings Ingredients
For the Wings
• Chicken Wings – The main ingredient, flats and drumettes separated for even cooking.
For the Sauce
• Onion (¾ cup, diced) – Adds depth and flavor to the sauce; can substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce (1 cup) – Provides essential umami flavor while reducing sodium intake; can substitute with tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Light Brown Sugar (1 cup) – Brings sweetness and caramelization to the dish; can substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
• Rice Wine Vinegar (¼ cup) – Balances the sweetness of the sauce with acidity; apple cider vinegar or white vinegar work as substitutes.
• Ground Ginger (2 teaspoons) – Enhances flavor with warmth; consider using fresh ginger for a more vibrant taste.
• Minced Garlic (1 tablespoon) – Adds aromatic flavor that complements the sauce; garlic powder can replace fresh if needed.
• Cornstarch (2 tablespoons, optional) – Used to thicken the sauce for a better texture; omit if you prefer a thinner sauce.
• Water (¼ cup, only needed if using cornstarch) – Activates the cornstarch for thickening the sauce.
For Garnish
• White Sesame Seeds – Adds a crunchy texture and visual appeal to the dish.
• Parsley – Freshens up the presentation with a pop of color.
These Teriyaki Chicken Wings are not just about simple cooking; they are about gathering loved ones around the table and enjoying every delicious bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Wings
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by placing your separated chicken wings into the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly distributed. This will allow for consistent cooking. Set the slow cooker to high and plan for them to cook for about 2–3 hours or on low for 4–5 hours. The wings are done when they are tender and easily pull apart, indicating perfect doneness.
Step 2: Mix the Teriyaki Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced onion, low sodium soy sauce, light brown sugar, rice wine vinegar, ground ginger, and minced garlic. Stir well to blend all the ingredients and create a harmonious flavor. Pour this mixture over the chicken wings in the slow cooker, ensuring they are thoroughly coated in the savory sauce.
Step 3: Cooking the Wings
Cover the slow cooker and let the teriyaki chicken wings cook without lifting the lid. This helps to retain the heat and steam necessary for tenderness. After the designated cooking time, check that the wings are fully cooked and tender, giving them that mouthwatering texture. The sauce should also be bubbling, showcasing the infusion of flavors.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
About thirty minutes before you’re ready to serve, remove the sauce from the slow cooker. In a small saucepan on the stovetop, combine ¼ cup of water with cornstarch, whisking until smooth. Heat the mixture over medium heat and gradually stir it into the teriyaki sauce until you achieve your desired thickness, which should be glossy and able to coat the wings beautifully.
Step 5: Final Touches
Pour the thickened teriyaki sauce back over the chicken wings in the slow cooker, gently stirring to ensure every wing is coated. Garnish with a sprinkle of white sesame seeds and freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve these Easy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Wings warm, inviting family and friends to savor the flavors of this delightful dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Wings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the chicken wings and the teriyaki sauce up to 24 hours in advance, simply combining the sauce ingredients and storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can season and place the wings in the slow cooker, then refrigerate them overnight, which enhances the flavors. When you’re ready to serve, just pour the sauce over the wings and set the slow cooker to high for 2–3 hours or low for 4–5 hours. This way, you’ll enjoy tender, flavorful wings with minimal effort, allowing you to focus on other tasks while they cook!
What to Serve with Easy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Wings
Enhance your gathering with delightful sides and treats that balance the savory, sweet flavors of these wings.
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Fresh Vegetable Sticks: Crisp carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers provide a refreshing crunch to offset the sticky sweetness.
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Fluffy Rice: Steamed jasmine or basmati rice serves as a perfect base to soak up the luscious teriyaki sauce while offering a neutral flavor.
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Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds a vibrant crunch and a zesty contrast to the tender wings.
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Sweet Mango Salad: Juicy mangoes tossed with lime juice and fresh herbs brighten the plate, complementing the rich flavors of the wings.
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Creamy Macaroni Salad: The cool, creamy texture of a classic macaroni salad balances the richness of the teriyaki sauce, making it a comforting addition.
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Cold Beer: Serve up a light, refreshing lager or pale ale to cleanse the palate between bites of the deeply flavored wings for the ultimate pairing.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies that provide a delightful contrasting flavor while invoking cozy nostalgia.
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Iced Green Tea: A soothing beverage that refreshes the palate and complements the savory notes of the teriyaki chicken wings beautifully.
These pairings ensure each bite is memorable, making your gathering truly unforgettable!
How to Store and Freeze Teriyaki Chicken Wings
Fridge: Store leftover teriyaki chicken wings in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wings in a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be kept for up to 3 months, ready for a quick meal later.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your stored wings, reheat them in the oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This helps regain their crispy texture.
Thawing: If frozen, thaw the wings in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results. Enjoy the flavors of your teriyaki chicken wings again!
Teriyaki Chicken Wings Variations
Feel free to play with the flavors in this dish and make it your own!
- Drumsticks: Swap chicken wings for drumsticks for a different texture and taste experience. You’ll find them just as delicious!
- Homemade Sauce: Use a homemade teriyaki sauce for a personal twist, ensuring every bite resonates with your unique flavor preferences.
- Add Green Onions: Stir in chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch that cuts through the richness of the sauce beautifully.
- Sweet Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that elevates your wings with a delightful heat.
- Curry Flavor: Incorporate curry powder into the marinade for a unique fusion twist that offers an exotic flavor profile.
- Honey Garlic: Substitute brown sugar with honey for a touch of natural sweetness and depth inspired by honey garlic wings.
- Vegetable Swap: Mix in bell peppers or broccoli right into the slow cooker for a colorful, nutritious addition that complements the wings.
- Soy Alternatives: Try coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a slightly sweeter, soy-free option perfect for those avoiding gluten.
For more flavorful ideas, you can also explore delicious options like Grilled Chicken Pasta or take a peek at Colombian Chicken Stew for more culinary inspiration!
Expert Tips for Teriyaki Chicken Wings
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Crispiness Hack: To achieve crispy skin, broil cooked wings on a tinfoil-lined baking sheet at 400°F for about 5 minutes per side.
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Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker teriyaki sauce, ensure to whisk cornstarch with water thoroughly before adding it to avoid clumps.
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Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, marinate chicken wings in the teriyaki sauce for a few hours in the refrigerator before cooking.
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Storage Savvy: Keep leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness. Reheat in the oven for optimal taste.
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Low Sodium Tip: Always use low sodium soy sauce to keep your teriyaki chicken wings flavorful without being overly salty.
Teriyaki Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting chicken wings?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken wings, look for ones that are plump and have a consistent color. Avoid wings with dark spots or an off smell. Fresh wings should feel moist but not slimy.
How should I store leftover teriyaki chicken wings?
Very easy! Store leftover wings in an airtight container or a ziplock bag in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure they’ve cooled completely to maintain their freshness!
Can I freeze teriyaki chicken wings, and how?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place cooked wings in a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They’ll last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What if my teriyaki sauce is too thin?
If the sauce is too thin, don’t worry! You can thicken it by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with ¼ cup of cold water. Bring the sauce to a simmer on the stovetop, then whisk in the cornstarch mixture, stirring until it thickens to your desired consistency. This should take just a few minutes!
Are teriyaki chicken wings safe for pets?
It’s best not to share teriyaki chicken wings with your pets. The soy sauce in the recipe can be high in sodium and may not be suitable for animals. Stick to pet-friendly treats to keep your furry friends happy and healthy!
What if I don’t have all the ingredients?
No problem! You can customize this recipe easily. Substitute low sodium soy sauce with tamari for gluten-free wings, or use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a healthier touch. Also, swapping chicken wings for drumsticks will work just as well!
Savory Teriyaki Chicken Wings to Impress Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Chicken: Place separated chicken wings into the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-5 hours.
- Mix the Teriyaki Sauce: Combine diced onion, low sodium soy sauce, light brown sugar, rice wine vinegar, ground ginger, and minced garlic in a bowl. Pour over chicken wings.
- Cooking the Wings: Cover the slow cooker, allowing wings to cook without lifting the lid. Cook until tender and sauces have melded.
- Thicken the Sauce: Remove the sauce from the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving. Combine water with cornstarch in a saucepan, heat until thickened, then return to wings.
- Final Touches: Pour the thickened sauce over chicken wings, stir gently, and garnish with sesame seeds and parsley before serving.
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