Ah, my friend, gather ’round! I’ve got a delightful gem to share with you today: my favorite Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken. This dish isn’t just a throw-it-in-and-forget-it meal; it’s a symphony of flavors that can transform those ordinary chicken breasts into a feast that will have your taste buds dancing. I remember the first time I made this; I came home after a long day, and the aroma welcomed me like a warm hug. There’s something truly comforting about a home-cooked meal that practically cooks itself. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try.
Why you’ll love this recipe
Imagine walking into your home after a long day and being greeted by the intoxicating aroma of teriyaki chicken bubbling away in the crockpot. Doesn’t that sound like pure bliss? This recipe is not just a breeze to prepare; it’s bursting with flavor, a beautiful balance of sweet and savory that elevates mere chicken to culinary delight.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You can whip it up in mere minutes, toss it into your crockpot, and go about your day, and the slow cooking does the heavy lifting. Plus, you can customize it to your family’s tastes—add veggies, swap proteins, or try different sauces. It’s versatile, accommodating, and downright satisfying.
Better yet, it’s a wholesome meal that packs a punch in the nutrition department. Lean protein from chicken, antioxidants from broccoli (if you choose to add it), and a touch of sweetness from honey make this dish not just delicious but nourishing. With all that goodness, what’s not to love?
Ingredients overview
Let’s gather our magical components, shall we? Each ingredient plays a significant role, so let’s chat about them!
4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: This lean protein is your star. You can also use thighs for a juicier result, but breast keeps it light and easy.
1 Cup Teriyaki Sauce: The heart of this dish! Choose your favorite brand, or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. A gluten-free sauce can easily replace traditional ones if needed.
2 Tablespoons Honey: This is the sweet elixir that balances the savory notes perfectly. If you’re avoiding sugar, agave or maple syrup would work in a pinch.
1 Tablespoon Minced Garlic: A clove of garlic adds that pungent depth, lifting flavors to new heights. Plus, it’s good for the heart!
1 Tablespoon Minced Ginger: Fresh ginger brings that warm spiciness that complements the teriyaki wonderfully. Ground ginger can do in a bind, but fresh is always best!
2 Cups Broccoli Florets (Optional): Adding colorful veggies not only makes the dish more vibrant but also packs in nutrients. Feel free to swap in snap peas or bell peppers if you fancy something different.
Cooked Rice or Noodles for Serving: The perfect vehicle for this saucy goodness. Jasmine rice, brown rice, or even noodles of your choice will do the trick.
How this recipe comes together
Ready to conjure up this glorious dish? Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have one of your new favorites!
Place Chicken Breasts: Start by laying those lovely chicken breasts right into the crockpot.
Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Whisk until blended and smooth. Pour this glorious marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is generously coated.
Broccoli Time: If you’re adding broccoli, toss it on top. This will cook down beautifully and soak up all those teriyaki flavors.
Cover & Cook: Put the lid on your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Your home will smell divine as it simmers.
Shred the Chicken: When it’s cooked through, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the sauce. This step is pure magic—every bite will be infused with those flavors.
Serve: Place it over a bed of rice or noodles, and watch it vanish before your very eyes!
Best way to enjoy it
The beauty of this teriyaki chicken is in its versatility! Serve it over fluffy jasmine rice for a heartwarming dish or nestle it atop noodles for a comforting noodle bowl. Feel free to sprinkle fresh green onions and sesames seeds on top for that restaurant-style flair.
If you’re feeling extra generous, you can prepare a side of steamed edamame or a simple cucumber salad to add a refreshing crunch.
How to store and reheat
So, you’ve got some leftovers (if you’re lucky!)—it’s important to store them right. Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container, and you can keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in portions. Just make sure to label your containers, so you don’t forget what deliciousness awaits you!
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, you have options! Warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just a splash of water can help rehydrate the sauce while reheating if it seems thick.
Helpful cooking tips
- Tweak the Sauce: Don’t be shy! Personalize it with your favorite spices or even a splash of sriracha for heat.
- Timed Perfection: If you’re using frozen chicken, you may want to increase the cooking time slightly. Good thing about the crockpot—it’s forgiving!
- Cutting Chicken: Instead of shredding, you can also cube the chicken before cooking, perfect if you’re looking to toss it on a salad.
Recipe variations
The world is your oyster with this base recipe! Swap in different proteins like pork, tofu, or even shrimp for something a tad different. For those avoiding gluten, tamari is a perfect substitute for teriyaki sauce. If you like a crunch, experiment with nuts—cashews and almonds are fabulous sprinkled on top.
Add different veggies based on what you have on hand; think carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers. Whatever tickles your fancy can find a home in this dish!
Ingredients list
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 cups broccoli florets (optional)
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Directions to follow
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix teriyaki sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger, and pour over the chicken.
- Add broccoli florets on top if desired.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is cooked through.
- Shred the chicken in the sauce before serving.
- Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Your questions answered
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes! Just add extra cooking time.
- Can I skip the broccoli? Absolutely! Or substitute with your favorite veggies.
- What if I don’t have teriyaki sauce? You can make a quick homemade version using soy sauce, brown sugar, and a splash of vinegar.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Stick with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and it’s good to go!
- Can I double the recipe? For sure! Just make sure your crockpot has enough space.
Get excited to make this delicious and easy Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken. I can’t wait for you to try it. Cooking is all about joy and creativity, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. Share your twists, and let’s celebrate delicious home-cooked meals together!
Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Description
This Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish that you can prepare in minutes. Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it cook for hours!Main Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Cooking Instructions
Preparation Steps
Place Chicken in Crockpot
Start by laying those lovely chicken breasts right into the crockpot.Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, combine teriyaki sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Whisk until blended and smooth. Pour this over the chicken, ensuring each piece is generously coated.Add Broccoli
If using broccoli, toss it on top of the chicken.Cover & Cook
Put the lid on your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.Shred the Chicken
Once cooked through, shred the chicken in the sauce with two forks.Serve
Serve over a bed of rice or noodles.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 10g16%
- Saturated Fat 2g10%
- Trans Fat 0g
- Cholesterol 70mg24%
- Sodium 600mg25%
- Potassium 800mg23%
- Total Carbohydrate 25g9%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 10g
- Protein 40g80%
- Vitamin A 300 IU
- Vitamin C 50 mg
- Calcium 30 mg
- Iron 2 mg
- Vitamin K 25 mcg
- Phosphorus 300 mg
- Magnesium 40 mg
- Zinc 3 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
