How to Grow Easy Dump-and-Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Dump-and-Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is the ultimate solution for busy families seeking weeknight dinner ideas that require minimal effort but deliver maximum flavor. This Asian-inspired dish combines the sweet and savory notes of teriyaki sauce with tender chicken that practically falls apart after slow cooking. Perfect for those hectic days when you need a reliable meal that cooks itself while you handle life’s other demands.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity—just add your ingredients to the crockpot in the morning, and by evening, you’ll have a delicious, family-friendly meal ready to serve over rice or noodles. With just a few minutes of prep time, you’ll create a dinner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, making it one of the most satisfying dump and go crockpot dinners in your recipe collection.

Nutritional Benefits

This teriyaki chicken recipe isn’t just convenient—it’s also packed with nutrients that make it a balanced meal option for your family. The chicken provides lean protein that helps build and repair muscles, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and fiber.

Nutrition (per serving)	Amount
Calories	295
Protein	32g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	8g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	14g
Sodium	850mg

Ingredients & Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Here’s what you’ll need and what you can substitute if necessary:

Ingredient	Role	Possible Substitutions
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts	Main protein	Boneless chicken thighs, pork tenderloin
1/2 cup soy sauce	Base for teriyaki sauce	Coconut aminos, tamari (for gluten-free)
1/3 cup honey	Natural sweetener	Brown sugar, maple syrup, agave nectar
1/4 cup rice vinegar	Adds acidity	Apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar
2 tbsp sesame oil	Adds nutty flavor	Olive oil (flavor will change slightly)
4 cloves garlic, minced	Aromatic flavor	1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp grated fresh ginger	Adds zest and warmth	1 tsp ground ginger
1/4 cup green onions, chopped	Garnish and flavor	Chives, regular onions (sautéed)
1 tbsp cornstarch	Thickener for sauce	Arrowroot powder, flour
2 tbsp sesame seeds	Garnish	Omit if unavailable

Equipment Needed

One of the best things about healthy dinner ideas like this teriyaki chicken is the minimal equipment required:

– 6-quart slow cooker/crockpot
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Cutting board and knife
– Small bowl for mixing cornstarch slurry
– Whisk
– Tongs or fork for shredding chicken

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this Dump-and-Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is as straightforward as it gets, making it perfect for busy days when you need simple yet delicious weeknight dinner ideas.

1. Prepare the sauce: In the bottom of your crockpot, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk until well combined.

2. Add the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot, turning them a few times to coat with the sauce.

3. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

4. Shred the chicken: About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return it to the crockpot.

5. Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Pour this mixture into the crockpot, stirring to combine with the sauce.

6. Final cooking: Cover and cook on HIGH for an additional 20-30 minutes until the sauce has thickened.

7. Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving over rice, noodles, or with your favorite vegetables.

Troubleshooting & Pro Tips

– For thicker sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add an additional 1/2 tablespoon of cornstarch to your slurry.
– Too salty? If your sauce tastes too salty, add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to balance the flavors.
– For more vegetables: Add bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, or snap peas during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking for a more nutritious meal.
– Flavor boost: For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce mixture overnight before cooking.
– Preventing dry chicken: If cooking longer than recommended, add 1/4 cup of chicken broth to keep the meat moist.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

This dump and go crockpot dinners recipe is perfect for meal prep and makes excellent leftovers:

– Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
– Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months for quick future meals.
– Reheating: Microwave with a splash of water to prevent drying out, or reheat gently on the stovetop.
– Meal prep: Prepare all ingredients and store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Conclusion

Dump-and-Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a solution for busy families looking for weeknight dinner ideas that don’t sacrifice flavor or nutrition. With minimal effort and budget-friendly ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just beginning your culinary journey, this recipe demonstrates how slow cooker meals can transform your dinner routine with their simplicity and delicious results. Add this to your collection of dump and go crockpot dinners for those days when you need a reliable, stress-free meal option that delivers on taste and satisfaction every time.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
While it’s always best to use thawed chicken for food safety reasons, you can use frozen chicken breasts. If using frozen, add an additional 2 hours of cooking time on LOW setting and ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version that maintains the authentic flavor.

Can I cook this on HIGH if I’m short on time?
Yes, you can cook this on HIGH for 3-4 hours instead of LOW for 6-7 hours. However, cooking on LOW generally produces more tender chicken.

What can I serve with this teriyaki chicken?
This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, brown rice, quinoa, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. For a complete meal, add a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables.

How can I make this recipe less sweet?
Reduce the honey to 1/4 cup and add an extra tablespoon of rice vinegar for a less sweet, more savory flavor profile.

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