Dump & Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken : Easiest Dinner Ever!

After a long day, nothing brings me more comfort than the enticing aroma of teriyaki chicken wafting through my kitchen. It’s hard to believe how effortlessly this dish comes together in the crockpot—just dump, set, and forget. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Imagine tender, fall-apart chicken bathed in a sticky-sweet teriyaki sauce, mingling beautifully with just a hint of garlic and ginger. Each bite is a delightful surprise of flavors that will surely please the whole family and make your dinner table feel special. Whether enjoyed over a bed of steaming jasmine rice or wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves, this dish transforms any ordinary evening into a comforting retreat. Join me on this culinary adventure where ease meets taste, and let’s whip up the easiest dinner ever!

Why is Dump & Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its Best: This recipe is a true set-it-and-forget-it dish, requiring minimal prep time.

Irresistible Aroma: Your kitchen will fill with mouth-watering scents that make it tough to wait.

Flavor-Packed: The combination of teriyaki sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a delightful balance that tantalizes the taste buds.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering of friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone.

Endless Versatility: Serve it over rice, in wraps, or on zoodles for a gluten-free option, adapting to any dietary preference.

Enjoy a comforting meal without the fuss, and for more quick recipes like this, check out our easy weeknight dinners.

Dump & Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Ingredients

Ready to create your easy and delicious Dump & Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken? Here’s everything you’ll need!

For the Chicken

Chicken Thighs – A juicy choice that melts in your mouth; substitute with chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner dish.

For the Sauce

Soy Sauce – Essential for that savory depth; opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish lighter.
Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness; maple syrup works wonderfully as a refined sugar alternative.
Garlic – Infuses the dish with rich aroma; fresh minced garlic is best for an authentic flavor punch.
Ginger – Brings warmth and spice to the party; fresh ginger is recommended, but ground can be an emergency substitute.

For Thickening

Cornstarch – Helps achieve that glossy, luscious sauce; remember to mix it with cold water first to activate its thickening power.

For Liquid

Water – Helps control the sauce’s consistency; replace with chicken broth for a flavor boost.

Each ingredient comes together to create a truly effortless and satisfying meal. Gather these helpers, and your family will be raving about your home-cooked teriyaki chicken!

How to Make Dump & Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Whisk Together: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth and well combined; this will be your flavorful teriyaki sauce.
Layer the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs into your crockpot. Make sure they are evenly distributed for even cooking, then pour the teriyaki sauce mixture over them, coating each piece.
Set to Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Thicken the Sauce: For a richer sauce, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking on high. This allows the sauce to reduce and thicken beautifully.
Serve it Up: Once done, serve your teriyaki chicken over fluffy jasmine rice. Top with sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions for that perfect finishing touch.

Optional: Garnish with sliced radishes for a fresh crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Dump & Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Thaw First: Always thaw chicken before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly and safely, avoiding any texture issues.
Cornstarch Slurry: For a perfectly thickened sauce, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, stirring it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes.
Flavor Boost: Double the teriyaki sauce if you want a richer flavor for drizzling over rice or as a delicious dipping sauce later.
Cook Time Check: Monitor cooking times as high settings can vary—check early to avoid overcooking and ensure the chicken remains tender.
Serving Ideas: Experiment with serving it in lettuce wraps or over zoodles for a fun and healthy twist to the traditional dump & go crockpot teriyaki chicken experience.

What to Serve with Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken?

As you prepare this delightful dish, let’s imagine a well-rounded meal that enhances its delicious flavors and textures.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The perfect canvas for soaking up the luscious teriyaki sauce, making every bite a delicious harmony of flavors.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright and tender, this veggie adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color, balancing the sweetness of the chicken beautifully.
Crisp Lettuce Wraps: For a fun, low-carb twist, enjoy the teriyaki chicken wrapped in crispy lettuce, bringing crunch and freshness to each bite.
Garlic Fried Rice: Infused with aromas of garlic and scallions, this hearty side elevates the meal, enhancing the overall umami experience.
Quick-Pickled Vegetables: For a zesty kick, serve with quick-pickled cucumbers or carrots; their tartness beautifully contrasts the savory chicken.
Miso Soup: A warm, comforting bowl of miso soup can be a gentle start to complement your main dish while keeping the meal light and wholesome.

Take a moment to set the table and assemble your feast. Enjoy combining these elements for a truly comforting dining experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken preparations are ideal for busy cooks looking to simplify their meal planning! You can mix the teriyaki sauce (soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking to save time on hectic days. Additionally, the chicken thighs can be marinated in the sauce overnight, ensuring they soak up that delicious flavor. Just remember, after marinating, transfer the mixture to the crockpot and cook it on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender. By prepping ahead, you’ll save precious time and still enjoy restaurant-quality results for your family dinner.

How to Store and Freeze Dump & Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping the teriyaki chicken fresh and ready for easy meals throughout the week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the teriyaki chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Serving as Meal Prep: Portion the chicken into meal prep containers with rice or veggies, making it a convenient option for busy days while ensuring the delicious flavors of your Dump & Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken endure.

Dump & Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Variations

Feel free to mix things up and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!

Cauliflower Rice: Swap out traditional rice for cauliflower rice to create a low-carb, veggie-packed base that’s just as satisfying.
Zoodles: For a fun, fresh twist, serve the teriyaki chicken over zoodles (zucchini noodles) to add a delightful crunch and a serving of veggies.
Quick-Pickled Veggies: Add a burst of flavor and texture by incorporating quick-pickled vegetables like carrots or cucumbers for that perfect balance of crunch and tang.
Coconut Aminos: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free and lower-sodium alternative that still packs a savory punch.
Sriracha Twist: If you love a bit of heat, drizzle some sriracha into the sauce mixture for a spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile.
Sesame Oil Finish: Drizzle a touch of toasted sesame oil over the dish just before serving for an added depth of flavor and an aromatic touch.
Mixed Veggies: Toss in some mixed frozen stir-fry vegetables during the last hour of cooking for an all-in-one meal that’s colorful and nutritious.
Brown Sugar Alternative: Swap honey for brown sugar to achieve a deeper, molasses-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory sauce.

Feel inspired by these suggestions, and watch your crockpot teriyaki chicken transform into something uniquely yours!

Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using chicken thighs for their tenderness and juiciness, but chicken breasts work well for a leaner option. Both will soak up the teriyaki sauce beautifully!

How can I store leftover teriyaki chicken?
Your leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to let it cool before sealing it up. This way, you’ll have a quick meal ready to go on any busy night!

Can I freeze Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken?
Yes! For long-term storage, freeze your teriyaki chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it saucy and delicious.

How do I prevent the sauce from being too thin?
To achieve that perfect thick consistency, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. Stir this into your sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and you’ll get that glossy finish that makes it so appealing!

Is this dish suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! If you’re concerned about sodium, you can substitute low-sodium soy sauce, and for a refined sugar alternative, maple syrup works wonderfully instead of honey. Always check labels for allergens, as soy sauce might contain wheat and other allergens.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Very! Feel free to add quick-pickled vegetables or steamed broccoli for extra color and nutrition. They complement the teriyaki flavors beautifully and can enhance the overall presentation and taste of your meal.