Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

When life gets hectic and dinner time creeps up fast, nothing beats a dump-and-go slow cooker meal. This is where Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken shines — quick to prep, packed with flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re a busy parent juggling work and family or simply someone who loves flavorful, low-effort meals, this recipe will become a weeknight go-to.

With only about 10 minutes of prep, this easy teriyaki chicken simmers into tender, juicy perfection in your slow cooker while you go about your day. No searing, no sautéing — just mix, dump, and let it cook.

In case you’re wondering whether it’s safe to cook raw chicken in a crockpot, the answer is yes. According to the USDA Safe Minimum Internal Temperature Guide, chicken is safe to cook as long as it reaches 165°F — which a slow cooker reliably does. So yes, it’s completely safe and super convenient.

Also, for those unfamiliar with mirin, a sweet Japanese rice wine often used in teriyaki sauce, you can read more about it and its alternatives in this helpful guide by The Spruce Eats.

Why You’ll Love This Dump and Go Teriyaki Chicken

• Minimal prep — no searing or pre-cooking required
• Family-friendly with flavors kids and adults both enjoy
• Freezer-friendly for future meals
• Can be adapted for gluten-free or low-sodium diets
• Pairs perfectly with rice or veggies

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make this flavor-packed slow cooker teriyaki chicken:

• 3 lbs chicken breast (or boneless skinless chicken thighs)
• ¾ cup soy sauce (use low-sodium or Tamari for gluten-free)
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup white sugar
• ⅓ cup mirin (or substitute with rice wine vinegar)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, freshly grated
• 4 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
• Toasted sesame seeds (optional garnish)
• Green onions, sliced (optional garnish)

How to Make Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

1. Mix the sauce
   In a bowl, whisk together:
   • Soy sauce
   • Brown sugar
   • White sugar
   • Mirin
   • Garlic
   • Ginger
   • Cornstarch + water slurry
2. Dump everything in the crockpot
   Place chicken in a 4-quart or larger slow cooker. Pour sauce over the chicken.
3. Cook
   • On LOW for 6 hours or
   • On HIGH for 3 hours
4. Shred and return
   Shred chicken with two forks and return it to the crockpot. Stir to coat with the thickened sauce.
5. Serve
   Over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

Tips for Best Results

• Shred chicken in a separate bowl for ease
• Don’t overcook — chicken dries out if left too long
• Use boneless thighs for juicier meat
• Double the sauce for extra glaze or to pour over rice

Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezer Tips

• Make ahead: Mix sauce and refrigerate until ready to use
• Store: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days
• Freeze: Freeze cooked chicken in sauce for up to 3 months
• Reheat: Thaw overnight, reheat in microwave or stovetop until hot

Delicious Variations to Try

• Add pineapple chunks for a sweet and tropical twist
• Toss in bell peppers or snow peas for extra crunch
• Add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes for heat
• Make it low-carb by using a sugar substitute and serving over cauliflower rice

What to Serve With Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

• Steamed white or brown rice
• Stir-fried broccoli, snow peas, zucchini, or mushrooms
• Soba noodles or quinoa
• Fresh lettuce wraps for a low-carb option

Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 450–480
• Protein: 50g
• Carbs: 40–48g
• Sugars: 35–40g
• Sodium: 1700–2000mg

For a healthier version, reduce sugar and use low-sodium soy sauce or Tamari for a gluten-free option.

FAQs

Can you put raw chicken in a crockpot?
Yes, it’s safe. Just make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Is it better to cook chicken on high or low?
Low yields juicier chicken, while high is faster but may result in slightly drier meat.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?
Yes, but homemade gives you full control over ingredients and flavor.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap soy sauce with Tamari or coconut aminos.

What’s the best rice to serve with teriyaki chicken?
White jasmine rice is classic, but brown rice or fried rice work great too.

Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes. It’s perfect for freezing and batch cooking.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Serve in rice bowls with stir-fried vegetables
• Make teriyaki chicken tacos with cabbage slaw
• Use in lettuce wraps for a light, crunchy option
• Load onto baked sweet potatoes for a hearty twist

Final Thoughts

This dump and go crockpot teriyaki chicken recipe brings together ease, taste, and versatility. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned meal prepper, this slow cooker wonder saves time and satisfies every time.

It’s warm, comforting, and customizable — just what busy families need for weeknight success. Try it once, and it’s sure to earn a regular spot in your meal rotation.

Let me know if you want a printable version, recipe card, or meal prep checklist to go with it!

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