If you’re looking for a dinner that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! This Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken has been a staple in my home for years. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone feel warm and cozy, with tender chicken swimming in a sweet teriyaki sauce and vibrant broccoli florets adding a pop of color. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish always impresses without causing stress in the kitchen.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. With only three ingredients, it’s truly a dump and go delight. You can set it up in just five minutes, and by dinnertime, your home will be filled with irresistible aromas. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak some veggies into your meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Easy Preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work while you relax or tackle other tasks.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike love the sweet flavors of teriyaki, making it a hit at the dinner table.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can whip this up over the weekend for easy weeknight dinners.
Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of chicken and teriyaki sauce creates a delectable harmony that everyone will crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s check what you’ll need to create this comforting dish!

2 lbs chicken breasts (about 900g)
1 cup teriyaki sauce (240 ml)
1 cup broccoli florets (90g)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to switch things up based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry.

Swap the protein: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, try using boneless turkey or even tofu for a plant-based option.
Add more veggies: Toss in some sliced bell peppers or snap peas along with the broccoli for extra crunch and nutrition.
Change up the sauce: Experiment with different sauces like sweet chili or sesame ginger to give your dish a unique twist.
Make it spicy: For those who love heat, add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to kick up the flavor!

How to Make Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of your crockpot. It’s important to ensure they’re evenly spaced so they cook properly. This step sets the foundation for tender chicken that absorbs all those wonderful flavors.

Step 2: Add the Teriyaki Sauce

Next, pour your teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well-coated – this is where all that delicious flavor comes from! Covering them completely helps ensure every bite is packed with sweetness.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Now it’s time to cover and let your crockpot work its magic on low heat for 6 hours. This slow cooking process breaks down the fibers in the chicken, making it incredibly tender. You can use this time to unwind or catch up on your favorite show!

Step 4: Stir in Broccoli

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, gently stir in those lovely broccoli florets. Not only do they add color and nutrients, but they also bring a delightful crunch to your meal when cooked just right.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Once everything is cooked through, shred the chicken if you’d like – it’s super easy after all that slow cooking! Serve your Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken hot over rice or noodles, soaking up all that delicious sauce. Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve made something special with minimal effort!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Cooking can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips, and I’m here to share my favorite secrets for making the best Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken!

Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Flavor: While chicken breasts are great, thighs offer a juicier texture and richer flavor, making your dish even more delicious.
Marinate Overnight for Best Results: If time allows, marinating the chicken in teriyaki sauce overnight will deepen the flavors. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly if you do this.
Add Fresh Ginger or Garlic: A teaspoon of minced fresh ginger or garlic can add a fantastic depth to your sauce, giving it that authentic Asian flair.
Check the Sauce Consistency: If you find the sauce too runny at the end of cooking, simply remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to let it thicken up beautifully.
Make it a Meal Prep Star: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Prepare and portion out servings ahead of time; it reheats wonderfully in the microwave.

How to Serve Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Serving your Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken can be as delightful as cooking it! Here are some fun ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
Chopped Green Onions: Freshly chopped green onions add color and a mild oniony kick that brightens up the dish.
Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro enhances freshness and adds a pop of vibrant green.

Side Dishes

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice is perfect for soaking up all that delicious teriyaki sauce. Its subtle aroma complements the chicken beautifully.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots stir-fried in a bit of soy sauce creates a colorful and nutritious side that balances out your meal.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cucumber, edamame, and a sesame dressing offers a nutritious twist and adds some crunch.
Cabbage Slaw: A refreshing cabbage slaw dressed lightly with rice vinegar can provide a nice contrast in texture and flavor to the rich teriyaki chicken.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken will not only be easy to prepare but also stunningly delicious! Enjoy every bite with your loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week without the hassle. Whether you’re cooking for busy weekdays or planning ahead for a family gathering, it’s a great way to save time!

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Enjoy your teriyaki chicken within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

Let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place chicken in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary.
Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until hot, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that may help you on your cooking journey!

Can I use frozen chicken for Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to extend the cooking time by an hour or so. Always ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C).

How can I customize my Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken?

Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers or snap peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also adjust the teriyaki sauce quantity based on your taste preferences.

What can I serve with Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. Adding a side salad or fresh fruit enhances your meal and balances flavors perfectly.

Is Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe is packed with protein from the chicken and includes broccoli, which adds fiber and nutrients. It’s a wholesome choice for dinner that can easily fit into a balanced diet.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this easy and flavorful Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken! It’s not just a meal; it’s an opportunity to gather around the table with loved ones and enjoy something special together. Remember, cooking should be fun and fulfilling—so dive right in, savor each moment, and relish every bite!