A Simple Yet Delicious Dinner Option
Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a favorite for busy weeknights. Imagine tossing chicken and a rich teriyaki sauce into your crockpot, letting the flavors meld together, and returning hours later to a steaming hot meal. This recipe is not just a time-saver; it also delivers on taste, offering a sweet and savory profile that has something for everyone. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a comforting meal for one, this dish is sure to impress without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are plenty of reasons to add Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken to your meal rotation. First off, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it recipe — perfect for busy families or anyone who values their time in the kitchen. You can prep it in minutes, and the slow cooking brings out the best in the ingredients, transforming simple chicken into a mouthwatering main course.
It’s also versatile! You can easily substitute ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. For example, if you’re feeling adventurous, try switching out chicken breasts for thighs or adding other vegetables for extra nutrition. And let’s not forget how kid-approved this meal is. The sweet and savory sauce captivates even the pickiest eaters.
“This teriyaki chicken was a hit at my dinner table! The kids devoured it, and I loved how easy it was to make!” — Happy Home Cook
The Cooking Process Explained
This recipe is all about convenience with minimal prep and maximum flavor. The process is straightforward: you’ll place the chicken into your crockpot, mix the ingredients, pour them over, and let the magic happen. The real star here is time — whether you choose to cook it on low or high, the resulting chicken will be tender and bursting with flavor.
What You’ll Need
Gather these items to make your delightful dish:
- 1.5 pounds chicken breasts
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 cups broccoli florets (optional)
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Feel free to customize! You can use low-sodium soy sauce or gluten-free teriyaki sauce if dietary restrictions are a factor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by placing the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- In a separate bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger.
- Pour this flavorful mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
- If you want to add some greens, sprinkle the broccoli florets on top.
- Cover the pot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken in the sauce for serving over your choice of rice or noodles.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving Dum and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken can be as creative as you like. Serve it over fluffy white rice for a comforting meal, or try it with noodles for a fun twist. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish; not only do they add flavor, but they also brighten up the plate! Side dishes like a crisp cucumber salad or steamed edamame would complement the entrée beautifully.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing your leftovers is simple. Keep any uneaten teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer-term storage; just ensure it’s well-packed to avoid freezer burn. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or a saucepan on low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To elevate your Teriyaki Chicken, consider these pro tips:
- Searing the chicken: For a bit of caramelization and extra flavor, quickly sear the chicken in a hot skillet before adding it to the crockpot.
- Flavor depth: Experiment by adding a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Adjusting texture: If you like your sauce thicker, mix a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to mix things up with these creative twists:
- Vegetable add-ins: Consider carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
- Different proteins: Swap chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.
- Spicy teriyaki: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for a kick!
Your Questions Answered
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and sauce the night before. Simply store them in the fridge and pop them in the crockpot the next day.
Q: What’s the best way to shred the chicken?
A: Use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot. This allows it to soak up more sauce for extra flavor.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can start with frozen chicken. However, ensure to cook it on high for 4-5 hours to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free teriyaki sauce and soy sauce alternatives like tamari.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), or it easily shreds with a fork.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the crockpot?
A: Yes! Feel free to add a variety of vegetables to the mix. Just note that cooking times might vary slightly.
Q: What should I serve with teriyaki chicken?
A: This dish pairs excellently with steamed rice, fried rice, or soba noodles and a side of veggies.
Q: How long can leftovers last?
A: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days and frozen for up to three months.
This Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken recipe is a fantastic blend of convenience and flavor, making it an ideal choice for any night of the week!
Print
Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A simple and delicious crockpot teriyaki chicken that is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken breasts
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 cups broccoli florets (optional)
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- In a separate bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.
- If desired, add the broccoli florets on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken in the sauce and serve over rice or noodles.
Notes
Feel free to customize with low-sodium soy sauce or gluten-free teriyaki sauce. Add sesame seeds and green onions for garnish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
