Introduction to Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Hello there! If you’re anything like me, you love a dinner that’s as delicious as it is effortless. That’s why I’m thrilled to share my favorite recipe for Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken! Seriously, you just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. It’s perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a warm, hearty meal without having to slave away in the kitchen.
Nutritional Benefits of Teriyaki Chicken
Now, let’s chat about why this dish can be a healthy option. Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The teriyaki sauce adds a delightful flavor without too many calories. Plus, by using low-sodium soy sauce, you cut back on excess salt. Not to mention the garlic and ginger! Full of antioxidants, these ingredients might support your immune system. Pairing this savory chicken with white rice gives you that energy boost with carbohydrates for the day!
Adaptable Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based twist. Just be sure to adjust cooking times since tofu cooks faster.
- Different Proteins: You could also try this recipe with pork or shrimp. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
- Extra Veggies: Consider adding broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to the slow cooker for a more colorful and nutritious dish.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice for a tasty, low-carb meal!
Easy Dump and Go Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4–6 hours (Low) or 2–3 hours (High)
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes – 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced or grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
- Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: First, grab your chicken and trim off any excess fat. If you prefer bite-sized pieces, chop them up now—it’ll make serving easier later!
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sesame oil until everything joins together beautifully.
- Load the Crockpot: Toss your chicken pieces into the bottom of the slow cooker, ensuring they’re all spread out nicely. Pour the lovely sauce mixture right over the chicken, coating every morsel.
- Cook: Pop the lid on your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you like a thicker sauce (who doesn’t?), just mix cornstarch with a bit of water in a small bowl to make a slurry. About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, toss this into the crockpot and stir. You’ll have a deliciously thick sauce in no time!
- Serve: Once it’s all cooked to perfection, use a slotted spoon to serve that delicious teriyaki chicken over a mound of fluffy white rice.
- Garnish: Finish it off with a sprinkle of sliced green onions and some toasted sesame seeds. It not only tastes great but looks fabulous too!
- Enjoy: Now, dig in and savor the wonderful flavors of your easy crockpot meal!
Practical Tips
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It tastes wonderful warmed up!
- Freezing? Separate small portions into freezer-safe bags for quick lunches later. Just thaw and reheat when you need a meal.
- Don’t have all the ingredients? Feel free to mix and match sauces—sweet and sour sauce or a homemade barbecue sauce can work wonders too.
Equipment Needed
Here’s a handy list of what you’ll need to whip up your teriyaki chicken:
- A slow cooker (Crockpot)
- A medium mixing bowl
- A whisk for combining sauces
- A cutting board and knife for prepping the chicken
- A slotted spoon for serving
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe? Yes, you can! Just increase the cooking time to ensure it cooks thoroughly.
- Is it necessary to thicken the sauce? No, it’s optional! The sauce is delicious as-is straight from the slow cooker.
- Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot? Absolutely! Cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes and then do a quick release.
- What’s the best way to serve leftovers? Reheat and serve over fresh rice, or you can make burritos with the chicken and some veggies!
- How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce? You can reduce the honey if you prefer a less sweet dish, or add a splash of vinegar for some tang!
If you try this Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken, I’d love to hear what you think! Share your experience in the comments or tag me on Pinterest where you found the inspiration for your delicious dinner! Let’s keep the cooking love going!
