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Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Breasts - Easy, Saucy, and Weeknight-Friendly

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 to 2.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4–6 pieces)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1/3 cup honey (or brown sugar)
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 2 tablespoons mirin (optional, for mellow sweetness)
  • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1–2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2–3 tablespoons water (slurry, for thickening)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
  • Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)

Method
 

  1. Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, mirin, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and chicken broth until smooth.
  2. Add to slow cooker: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker in a single layer if possible. Pour the sauce over the top, turning the chicken to coat.
  3. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on Low for 3.5–4.5 hours, or on High for 2–3 hours, until the chicken reaches 165°F and is tender. Cooking time can vary by slow cooker and thickness of the breasts.
  4. Remove chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice or shred to your preference.
  5. Thicken the sauce: Pour the cooking liquid into a small saucepan (or leave it in the slow cooker if it has a sauté function). Bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce is glossy and thick enough to coat a spoon.
  6. Combine and finish: Return the sliced or shredded chicken to the slow cooker or a serving bowl and toss with the thickened teriyaki sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning—add a splash more soy for salt, honey for sweetness, or vinegar for brightness.
  7. Serve: Spoon the chicken over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Add steamed broccoli, snap peas, or carrots if you like.