Crockpot Honey Teriyaki Chicken

Name: Crockpot Honey Teriyaki Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup honey; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish); Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love making Crockpot Honey Teriyaki Chicken because it combines the richness of honey with the tang of soy sauce for a deliciously easy meal. Just toss the ingredients into the crockpot, set it, and forget it while the magic happens. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. The sticky sauce paired with the tender chicken makes it a hit with everyone. Plus, it’s a breeze to customize with your favorite vegetables or serve over rice or noodles to soak up that incredible sauce.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-18T14:26:30.717Z

When I first made Crockpot Honey Teriyaki Chicken, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together in such a simple way. Ideally, I let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about four hours, and it turned out incredibly tender, practically falling apart with a fork. The honey creates a sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully, while the garlic and ginger add a lovely depth of flavor that lingers in every bite.

Another tip I discovered is that incorporating a splash of rice vinegar enhances the tanginess of the sauce, giving the dish a well-rounded profile. I often serve it with steamed vegetables, which not only adds color but also makes the meal feel balanced and nutritious. It truly is a crowd-pleaser that I keep coming back to!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory flavor combination that excites the palate
Hands-off cooking method, making meal prep a breeze
Perfectly tender chicken that pairs well with rice or vegetables

      

Unlocking the Flavor

Balancing the flavors in this Crockpot Honey Teriyaki Chicken is crucial for achieving that classic teriyaki taste. The honey not only adds sweetness but also helps to thicken the sauce as it cooks down, giving it a sticky texture that clings beautifully to the chicken. Using low-sodium soy sauce can help control saltiness while still delivering that rich umami flavor. If you prefer a bolder taste, feel free to add extra minced garlic or a splash of sesame oil for extra depth.

The role of rice vinegar in this recipe can't be overlooked. It adds a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness of the honey and the saltiness of the soy sauce. For a unique twist, consider substituting apple cider vinegar or even fresh lime juice, which can brighten the dish while still enhancing the flavor profile.

Customizing Your Dish

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily add your favorite vegetables to the crockpot during the last hour of cooking. Bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli florets are excellent choices that will soak up the teriyaki flavors while adding a vibrant color to the dish. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and toss them in for the final cooking phase to ensure they remain crisp and fresh.

If you're looking to switch up the protein, feel free to experiment with thighs, which will provide a richer taste due to their higher fat content. You can also use tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian version—just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, aiming for 2 to 2.5 hours on high or 4 to 5 hours on low in the crockpot.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This recipe stores remarkably well, making it perfect for meal prepping. After cooking, let the chicken cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you're looking to make a larger batch, consider doubling the ingredients and freezing half for later use. Just be sure to allow it to cool completely before freezing to avoid ice crystal formation.

When reheating, I recommend using low heat on the stovetop to prevent the chicken from drying out. Adding a splash of water or extra soy sauce can help maintain moisture and safety when reheating in the microwave. Aim to heat it until it reaches at least 165°F to ensure it's warmed through; this will keep the chicken tender and the sauce luscious.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a small bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and black pepper.

Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot, then pour the honey soy mixture over the chicken, ensuring they are well-coated.

Set the Crockpot

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Serve

Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir it into the sauce. Serve over rice or noodles, and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding chopped vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli to the crockpot for the last hour of cooking. This will infuse the veggies with tasty teriyaki sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing this Crockpot Honey Teriyaki Chicken with fluffy jasmine rice or hearty brown rice truly makes for a satisfying meal. The rice will absorb the excess sauce, turning each bite into a delightful combination of flavors. Alternatively, serve it over whole grain noodles, which can give the dish more texture and heartiness suited for those craving something extra filling.

For a refreshing twist, consider adding a side of pickled cucumbers or a simple salad with a light dressing. This can provide a nice contrast to the sticky sweetness of the chicken and add crunchy textures, making for a well-rounded plate.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that the sauce isn’t as thick as you would like after cooking, a quick trick is to remove the chicken once it’s done, and then simmer the sauce on the stovetop over medium heat for 5-10 minutes until it reduces to your desired consistency. Be cautious not to overcook the chicken while doing this, so keep it covered to retain heat.

Additionally, if you happen to cook the chicken too long, it may become dry. To avoid this, always use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F, and if you find yourself in a situation with overcooked chicken, shredding it back into the sauce can help restore some moisture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to cook it on high for about 4 hours instead of low to ensure it's safe to eat.

→ What can I substitute for soy sauce?

You can use tamari or a low-sodium soy sauce alternative if you're looking for a gluten-free option.

→ Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can combine the sauce and chicken in the crockpot insert and store it in the fridge overnight. Just start cooking it in the morning.

→ What other sides go well with this dish?

This teriyaki chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even a fresh salad.