Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful blend of savory and creamy flavors, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Imagine coming home to the rich aroma of teriyaki chicken cooking slowly in your kitchen. This recipe is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to for busy families.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich teriyaki flavor enveloped in a creamy sauce
- Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
- Perfect for meal prep or family gatherings
The Perfect Weeknight Meal
In today's fast-paced world, finding a meal that is both delicious and easy to prepare can be a challenge. Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is the answer to your weeknight dinner dilemmas. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set this dish in motion and let the slow cooker do the work. This means you can spend more time with your family or catching up on your favorite show while your meal cooks to perfection.
Moreover, the comforting flavors of teriyaki combined with a velvety cream sauce make this dish irresistible. It's a meal that appeals to both adults and kids alike, ensuring that everyone at the table will be satisfied. Pair it with steamed rice or sautéed veggies for a complete meal that’s as nutritious as it is tasty.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the standout features of this Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken recipe is its suitability for meal prep. Preparing meals in advance can save you time and stress during the week, and this dish is perfect for that. You can easily double the recipe and portion it out into containers for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
The creamy teriyaki sauce holds up well in the fridge, and the flavors only deepen as it sits. This means that not only are you saving time, but you're also enjoying a meal that's even better the next day. Simply reheat and enjoy, making your week smoother and more delicious with minimal effort.
Customizing Your Dish
While this recipe is fantastic as-is, feel free to get creative with your ingredients. You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the slow cooker for a one-pot meal that packs in even more nutrition. This not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the health benefits of your dish.
For those who prefer a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce. Alternatively, if you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a delicious tropical twist. The versatility of this recipe allows you to tailor it to your family's taste preferences.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Make sure to have all these ingredients ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your creamy teriyaki chicken:
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.
Cook the Chicken
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Make the Creamy Sauce
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and set aside. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the remaining sauce in the slow cooker and let it cook for an additional 15 minutes on high until thickened.
Combine and Serve
Shred the chicken and return it to the slow cooker. Stir to coat in the creamy sauce. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Enjoy your delicious creamy slow cooker teriyaki chicken with rice or noodles!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store any leftover Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness.
When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating on the stovetop is ideal for maintaining the creamy texture of the sauce. Heat on low, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through, ensuring it doesn't dry out.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic combination, serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice. The rice soaks up the rich sauce, making every bite delightful. You can also serve it with quinoa for a healthier grain option.
If you're looking to keep things lighter, consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. The crunch of the veggies will complement the creamy chicken beautifully, providing a balanced meal that's both satisfying and nourishing.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
→ Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
→ Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in its sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
This Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful blend of savory and creamy flavors, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Created by: Maya Richardson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
How-To Steps
Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and set aside. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the remaining sauce in the slow cooker and let it cook for an additional 15 minutes on high until thickened.
Shred the chicken and return it to the slow cooker. Stir to coat in the creamy sauce. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g