Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Name: Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup teriyaki sauce; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 tablespoon minced ginger; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked white rice; Chopped green onions; Sesame seeds

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy a deliciously creamy take on a classic dish with this Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken. Perfectly tender chicken simmered in a rich teriyaki sauce makes for a meal everyone will love.

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2025-12-28T17:46:10.659Z

This Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy tender, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. The creamy sauce adds a delightful twist, making it a family favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that enhances the flavor of the chicken
Set it and forget it – perfect for busy days
Great for meal prep and leftovers that taste even better

      

A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

Teriyaki chicken is a beloved dish that has won hearts around the globe. This creamy rendition elevates the traditional flavors, making it an indulgent option for any meal. The combination of the sweet and savory teriyaki sauce paired with the richness of heavy cream creates a luscious coating for the tender chicken thighs. It’s a delightful contrast that promises to excite your taste buds while providing a comforting meal.

Using a slow cooker not only simplifies the cooking process but also locks in all the flavors as they meld together throughout the cooking time. The long, slow cooking method ensures that the chicken is incredibly tender and absorbs the sauce beautifully. This dish is bound to become a new family favorite with its perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for an easy weeknight meal, Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken fits the bill. Its simplicity allows you to focus on spending time with loved ones while it cooks away. Just set it up in the morning and come home to an aromatic kitchen filled with mouthwatering scents. The minimal effort required makes it an ideal recipe for busy days.

Additionally, this dish is fantastic for meal prepping. Make a big batch at the beginning of the week, and you'll have delicious lunches or dinners ready to go. The flavors deepens and improves after sitting in the fridge, ensuring that leftovers taste even better than the first serving!

Serving Suggestions

To complement the creamy teriyaki chicken, serve it over fluffy cooked white rice. The rice acts as a perfect canvas to soak up the rich sauce, making every bite a flavorful experience. For added texture and freshness, consider garnishing with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. These toppings not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a delightful crunch and burst of flavor.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also pair this dish with steamed vegetables or a crisp salad to round out your meal. Broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy would work wonderfully, adding color and nutrition to your plate. This versatility allows you to customize your dining experience based on personal preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup teriyaki sauce
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Cooked white rice
Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds

Make sure to prepare all your ingredients before starting the slow cooker.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place them in the slow cooker.

Add the Sauce

In a bowl, mix together teriyaki sauce, heavy cream, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Pour the mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir it back into the sauce.

Serve

Serve over cooked white rice and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Enjoy your creamy teriyaki chicken!

Tips for Success

To ensure your teriyaki chicken turns out perfectly, use high-quality teriyaki sauce. A good sauce will have a balanced flavor profile, enhancing the overall dish. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of chicken cuts. While thighs are ideal for their tenderness, chicken breasts can be used if you prefer a leaner option. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as breasts may cook faster than thighs.

Another tip is to check the seasoning after cooking. Depending on your teriyaki sauce’s saltiness, you may want to adjust the salt and pepper to suit your taste. A dash of soy sauce can also deepen the flavor if desired.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the dish even more delicious when reheated. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce creamy. This way, you can easily enjoy this comforting dish anytime!

Variations to Try

This recipe is versatile, and you can easily modify it to suit different tastes. For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce mixture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option that still maintains creaminess.

You can also mix in your favorite vegetables during the last hour of cooking for a one-pot meal. Bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas can add color and nutrition while absorbing the delicious teriyaki flavor. Get creative and make this dish your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out more easily. Consider reducing the cooking time slightly.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure you use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in the sauce. Thaw and reheat before serving.