After a long day, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. Enter my Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken—a life-saver for those hectic evenings! Imagine tender chicken slowly simmering in a luscious teriyaki sauce, filling your home with an inviting aroma that promises a delicious meal ahead. This easy-going recipe is a fantastic choice for busy families, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome dinner without the fuss. With minimal prep time and pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s a dish that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it makes for a delightful change from the usual takeout! What’s not to love about that? Ready to uncover the secret to effortless weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into this recipe together!

Why is This Teriyaki Chicken So Amazing?

Simplicity at Its Peak: With just a few key ingredients, you can create a wholesome meal without the hassle of intricate steps.

Brilliant Flavor Explosion: The lovely blend of teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and fresh ginger delivers a delightful taste that will leave your family craving more.

Time-Saving Solution: Throw everything in the crockpot and let it do the work! No need to hover over the stove after a long day.

Kid-Friendly Appeal: This dish is sweet, savory, and totally satisfying, making it perfect for even the pickiest eaters.

Versatile Dish: Pair it with fluffy rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal, and feel free to add your favorite veggies for extra nutrition.

Ready for more easy meals? Check out my Crockpot Hot Honey and Honey Garlic Chicken for additional family-friendly recipes!

Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Fresh or thawed chicken is preferred for even cooking.

For the Sauce

1 cup bottled teriyaki sauce – Look for low-sodium options for a healthier dish.
2 tbsp soy sauce – Tamari may be used for gluten-free.
2 tbsp honey or brown sugar – Maple syrup is a suitable alternative for sweetness.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Pre-minced garlic can save prep time.
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated – Ground ginger can be used in a pinch but is less potent.

Optional Add-Ins

1 cup pineapple chunks – Adds sweetness and a tropical touch; other fruits can also be added for color.
1 bell pepper, sliced – Any color bell pepper works for added visual appeal and flavor.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
Lightly coat the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray to ensure an easy cleanup later on. This simple step helps prevent the chicken from sticking as it cooks. Set the crockpot aside while you prep the chicken for your flavorful Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken.

Step 2: Add the Chicken
Place the 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs evenly at the bottom of the crockpot. Arrange the pieces so they are not overlapping, allowing for even cooking. This is the foundation of your dish, providing a tender and juicy protein that perfectly absorbs the teriyaki sauce.

Step 3: Mix Your Sauces
In a separate mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of teriyaki sauce, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey or brown sugar, 2 minced cloves of garlic, and 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger. Whisk until well blended; the aromas will make your mouth water! This sauce mixture is the key to elevating the flavor of your Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Pour the flavorful sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is thoroughly coated. Use a spatula or spoon to gently mix, ensuring all chicken pieces are submerged in the sauce. This will guarantee each bite bursts with the delightful flavors of teriyaki as it cooks.

Step 5: Set Cooking Time
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours. The chicken is ready when it reaches a tender, pull-apart consistency, turning white throughout. The slow cooking method allows all the components to meld perfectly together.

Step 6: Shred the Chicken
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred or slice the chicken to desired sizes. This step elevates the dish, inviting those delightful, juicy bites to absorb even more of the luscious teriyaki sauce.

Step 7: Combine and Serve
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, mixing it well with the sauce to ensure each piece is coated. Serve your warm Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken over fluffy rice, noodles, or alongside steamed vegetables for a wholesome meal. Enjoy the comforting flavors that your family is sure to love!

Make Ahead Options

These Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Simply combine the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger in a bowl, and then pour it over the chicken in a sealed container. For optimal quality, refrigerate the marinated chicken overnight, ensuring it stays fresh and flavorful. When ready to cook, transfer it to your crockpot and follow the usual cooking instructions. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go with minimal effort, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

How to Store and Freeze Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Fridge: Store the chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled down to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the teriyaki chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2–3 months. Portion it out for easy meal planning later!

Reheating: Thaw thoroughly in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Stir in a little water or extra sauce if needed to rejuvenate the flavor.

Make-Ahead: This Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken is perfect for meal prep—cook it in advance and enjoy stress-free dinners throughout the week!

Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Variations

Feel free to play around with this teriyaki chicken recipe and make it your own!

Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu, allowing the teriyaki sauce to infuse its flavors into the tofu for a delightful vegetarian twist.
For a firmer texture, use extra-firm tofu and press out the extra moisture before adding it to the crockpot.
Veggie Boost: Add nutritious vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots to enhance both flavor and nutrition.
Stir them in halfway through the cooking process for a vibrant, crisp contrast to the tender chicken.
Fruity Addition: Introduce fresh pineapple chunks for a sweet and tropical flair, or experiment with diced mango for a unique taste.
This tropical element elevates the dish, harmonizing beautifully with the savory teriyaki flavors.
Hoisin Variation: Swap out the teriyaki sauce for hoisin sauce to introduce a different yet equally delightful flavor profile.
It brings a rich sweetness and complexity that can truly surprise your taste buds.
Spicy Kick: Add a splash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for an exciting heat level that appeals to spice lovers.
Adjust the quantity to suit your family’s spice tolerance and enjoy a punch of heat intertwined with the sweetness.
Coconut Cream: Stir in a touch of coconut cream at the end of cooking for a creamy, tropical texture that beautifully complements the dish.
This indulgent spin also rounds out the savory notes with a hint of sweetness.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate fresh orange or lime zest for an zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the dish.
A little zest added right before serving can lift the flavors and make each bite sing!

Don’t forget to pair your delicious teriyaki chicken with fluffy rice or steamed veggies. For more flavorful inspirations, explore my recipes for Sweet Savory Chicken or try the White Chicken Chili for a comforting meal!

What to Serve with Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Transform your hearty teriyaki chicken into an unforgettable dinner by pairing it with delightful sides that enhance the flavors.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: A classic companion, jasmine rice captures the luscious sauce, providing a perfect balance of sweetness and savory flavor.
Steamed Broccoli: Fresh and vibrant, steamed broccoli adds a delightful crunch and bright color, making your dish feel wholesome and nutritious.
Garlic Noodles: Tender noodles tossed with garlic and a hint of butter make an irresistible base that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
Sesame Green Beans: A quick stir-fry of green beans with sesame oil offers a nutty crunch that pairs wonderfully with the chicken’s marinade.
Cucumber Salad: Light, crisp cucumbers in a tangy dressing serve as a refreshing contrast to the rich teriyaki chicken, adding a touch of brightness.
Pineapple Fried Rice: Elevate your meal with fried rice studded with sweet pineapple for a tropical twist that complements the dish’s umami flavor.
Spring Rolls: Crisp spring rolls, filled with fresh vegetables and served with a sweet dipping sauce, offer a delightful appetizer to start your meal on a high note.
Mango Lassi: Cool and creamy, this yogurt-based drink adds a luscious sweetness, perfect for balancing the savory notes of the teriyaki.
Chocolate Mochi: End your meal with these chewy little delights that provide a sweet finish to the meal while offering an interesting texture contrast.

Expert Tips for Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Choose the Right Chicken: For the best results, use fresh or fully thawed boneless chicken breasts or thighs; frozen chicken can lead to uneven cooking.
Adjust the Sauce: If cooking larger quantities, simply scale the ingredients proportionally to maintain the flavor balance in your Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken.
Use Slow Cooker Liners: For easy cleanup, consider using slow cooker liners. They help prevent sticking and make washing up a breeze.
Monitor Cooking Time: Check the chicken’s doneness towards the end of the cooking time. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, so pull it when tender.
Mix It Up: Feel free to add extra vegetables like broccoli or snap peas during the last hour of cooking for a more nutritious and colorful meal.

Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs that are either fresh or completely thawed. This allows for even cooking and ensures the chicken remains juicy and tender throughout the long, slow cooking process.

How should I store leftovers, and how long do they last?
You can store any leftover Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the chicken cool down to room temperature before sealing to preserve its flavor and texture.

Can I freeze this teriyaki chicken, and what’s the best way to do it?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Portion your Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken into freezer-safe containers, and it’ll last for up to 2–3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy it, gently warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra sauce if needed to keep it moist.

What if the chicken turns out dry or overcooked?
If you find that your chicken is dry, it might have been overcooked. Always monitor the cooking time closely—cook on low for about 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until the chicken reaches a tender, pull-apart consistency. For next time, consider using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F but remove it as soon as it’s tender, not faintly dry.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! If you’re serving this dish to young children or individuals with food sensitivities, consider opting for low-sodium sauces to reduce salt intake. For those with gluten sensitivities, substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free option like tamari. Also, be mindful if serving to pets—as tempting as it looks, it’s best to keep the teriyaki chicken away from them due to the soy sauce content.

Can I add more vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate a variety of vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or even bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Add them during the last hour of cooking to keep them crisp and vibrant. The more the merrier when it comes to veggies!