Why Make This Recipe
Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is a fantastic meal for busy days. This recipe is easy and quick, allowing anyone to prepare a delicious meal with minimal effort. You just throw everything into the crockpot and let it do all the work while you go about your day. The result is tender, juicy chicken in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.
Making this dish in a crockpot is also a great way to cook chicken. Slow cooking allows all the flavors to blend together beautifully. The chicken absorbs the richness of the sauce, making every bite delightful. Whether you are cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is perfect.
You don’t need complicated cooking skills or fancy kitchen gadgets. Just follow the simple steps, and you’ll have a flavorful meal ready for yourself or your guests. Plus, your home will smell amazing while it cooks.
How to Make Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Making Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is a simple process that anyone can follow. Here are the details to ensure your dish comes out perfect every time.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Rice or noodles for serving
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Directions
Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing the 1.5 lbs of chicken breasts directly into the crockpot. It is best if the chicken is thawed to help it cook evenly. You can use whole breasts or cut them into smaller pieces for quicker cooking.
Make the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of teriyaki sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon of minced ginger. This combination creates a fantastic sauce that packs a lot of flavors.
Add the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure the chicken is well-coated to allow it to absorb all the flavors while cooking.
Season the Dish: Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste. Remember that teriyaki sauce can be salty, so be careful not to over-season.
Cook the Chicken: Cover the crockpot and cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer you cook it, the more tender the chicken will become.
Shred the Chicken: Once the cooking time is up, shred the chicken using two forks. It should fall apart easily. After shredding, return the chicken to the sauce in the crockpot. Mix it well so every piece is coated.
Serve the Dish: Serve the delicious chicken over rice or noodles, depending on what you prefer. You can also garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if you’d like to add some flair to your dish.
How to Serve Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
When it comes to serving your Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken, the possibilities are endless. The most common way is to serve it over rice or noodles. Both options will soak up the sauce and make for a filling meal.
For rice, you can use white rice, brown rice, or even jasmine rice. Each type brings a different flavor and texture, but all will complement the teriyaki chicken well.
When using noodles, you can select from various options like spaghetti, stir-fried noodles, or even rice noodles. Just be sure to cook them according to the package instructions before serving.
To elevate the presentation, sprinkle green onions and sesame seeds on top. These but not only add color but also a nice crunch.
If you’re hosting a gathering or dinner party, consider serving it with additional sides. Steamed broccoli, snap peas, or a simple salad can be great accompaniments that balance the sweetness of the dish.
How to Store Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Storing your leftover Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is straightforward. First, allow the chicken to cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer the chicken and its sauce into airtight containers. Make sure to leave a bit of space at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing.
You can keep the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it. It can last in the freezer for about 2 to 3 months without losing flavor.
When you’re ready to eat the frozen chicken, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the microwave or on the stove until warm. If you add a splash of water to the chicken while reheating, it will help keep it moist.
Tips to Make Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Here are some helpful tips to consider when making your Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken:
Choose Quality Chicken: Using high-quality, fresh chicken breasts will enhance the overall flavor of your dish. Look for organic or free-range chicken for the best results.
Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to tweak the teriyaki sauce according to your taste. For example, add a splash of soy sauce for an extra kick or reduce the honey if you prefer a less sweet dish.
Experiment with Add-ins: You can add vegetables directly into the crockpot for added nutrition. Sliced bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli work great with teriyaki chicken. Just make sure to add them during the last hour of cooking to prevent mushiness.
Use Frozen Chicken: It’s also possible to use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours when using frozen chicken.
Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapenos to the sauce.
Variations
While this recipe is already simple and delicious, there are a few variations you can try based on your preferences:
Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken: Add chunks of pineapple to the slow cooker during the last hour. The sweet and tangy flavors will complement the dish wonderfully.
Asian Style Meatballs: Instead of chicken breasts, you can use precooked or homemade meatballs. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the teriyaki sauce with a gluten-free alternative, or make your own using tamari sauce.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes! While this recipe is specifically for chicken, you can use pork or beef as well. Ensure to adjust cooking times based on the type of meat used.
How can I ensure my chicken doesn’t dry out?
To prevent the chicken from drying out, do not overcook it. Additionally, if you are cooking on high heat, check the chicken around the 3-hour mark and shred it once it’s done.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! You can double the ingredients and use a larger crockpot. Just make sure to give the chicken enough space to cook evenly.
With these detailed steps, tips, and variations, you’re well on your way to creating a wonderful meal with this Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken recipe! Enjoy your cooking journey!
Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Place the chicken breasts directly into the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix together the teriyaki sauce, honey, minced garlic, and minced ginger to create the sauce.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring it is well-coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once done, shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the sauce.
- Serve the chicken over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.