This recipe cooks low and slow so the chicken becomes tender and full of flavor. It uses simple pantry sauce and needs almost no prep. For a quick side idea, try an easy air fryer chicken bites recipe that pairs well with rice.
why make this recipe
This Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is very easy. You put ingredients in, start the crockpot, and come back to a tasty meal. It saves time and needs little work. It is great for busy nights and for feeding a family.
How to make Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
- Place the raw chicken in the crockpot.
- Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken so it is covered.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- When the chicken is cooked, shred it with two forks right in the crockpot. Stir the shredded chicken into the sauce.
- Serve the chicken over cooked rice or noodles and add chopped green onions on top.
Ingredients :
- 2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)
Directions :
- Place the chicken in the crockpot.
- Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir it into the sauce.
- Serve over cooked rice or noodles and garnish with chopped green onions.
How to serve Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Serve the shredded teriyaki chicken over hot rice or noodles. Add chopped green onions on top for color. A side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad works well. For more simple meal combo ideas, see this chicken and shrimp combo post for inspiration.
How to store Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
- Fridge: Cool the chicken, put it in an airtight container, and keep it for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Place in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until hot.
Tips to make Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
- Use boneless chicken for easy shredding.
- If sauce seems thin after cooking, remove the lid and cook on high 15–20 minutes to thicken.
- Add a splash of soy sauce or honey if you want more salt or sweetness.
- For crisp texture, spoon some shredded chicken onto a hot skillet for a minute before serving.
Variation
- Add vegetables: sliced bell peppers, onions, or broccoli in the last hour of cooking.
- Pineapple teriyaki: add pineapple chunks for a sweet tang.
- Spicy: stir in a little chili sauce or red pepper flakes.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes. Cook time will increase. It is best to cook on low and add extra hour or two, but use a food thermometer to be sure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Q: Can I use homemade teriyaki sauce?
A: Yes. Homemade or store-bought both work. Adjust salt and sweetness to taste.
Q: Do I need to brown the chicken first?
A: No. This is a dump-and-go recipe. Browning adds flavor but is not needed.
Q: How do I thicken the sauce after cooking?
A: Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 1–2 tbsp cold water and stir into the crockpot. Cook on high 10–15 minutes until thicker.
Conclusion
This easy crockpot teriyaki chicken is a set-and-forget dinner you can rely on for busy days. For another slow cooker take on teriyaki chicken, see a full guide at Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken – Dinner at the Zoo. You can also compare notes with the recipe at Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Recipe for more tips and variations.
Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts Boneless chicken for easy shredding
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce Use store-bought or homemade
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions For garnish
- as needed servings cooked rice or noodles For serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the raw chicken in the crockpot.
- Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken so it is covered.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- When the chicken is cooked, shred it with two forks right in the crockpot and stir the shredded chicken into the sauce.
- Serve the chicken over cooked rice or noodles and add chopped green onions on top.