Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
Teriyaki Sauce
- 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons ginger (minced)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
Thickening and Garnish
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker, arranging them evenly to allow uniform cooking.
- Make the Teriyaki Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together minced garlic, minced ginger, honey, brown sugar, low sodium soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and rice vinegar until well combined.
- Combine and Cook: Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or on LOW for 5-6 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them on a serving plate or cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Strain the Sauce: Pour the liquid teriyaki sauce from the slow cooker through a strainer into a saucepan to remove any solids, ensuring a smooth sauce for thickening.
- Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat on the stovetop and bring the strained sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Prepare Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in cold water, stirring until completely mixed to avoid lumps.
- Thicken the Sauce: Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly. Bring the sauce to a boil and cook for 1-2 minutes until it thickens to a glossy consistency.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Pour the thickened teriyaki sauce over the shredded chicken and toss thoroughly to coat every piece evenly with the rich glaze.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the coated chicken with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Serve warm.
Notes
- Using low sodium soy sauce helps control the salt content in this recipe.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce mixture before cooking.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.
- Make sure to dissolve the cornstarch completely in cold water before adding to the sauce to avoid lumps.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian