Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Easy Slow Cooker Dinner for Busy Days

Last Updated on December 6, 2025 by Chef Josie

There is something incredibly satisfying about walking into your kitchen at the end of a long day and smelling dinner already cooked and ready to serve. This Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken delivers exactly that experience. It is a simple, dependable slow cooker recipe that combines tender chicken, a rich teriyaki inspired sauce, and effortless preparation. For anyone who wants a stress free meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare, this dish is the perfect answer.

The beauty of this recipe is how approachable it is. You do not need special techniques, complicated ingredients, or even much time. You simply place everything in the slow cooker, turn it on, and let it work. The sauce simmers gently, the chicken becomes tender, and the flavors blend perfectly. If you want a dinner that feels homemade without the rush of evening cooking, this Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation.

This dish is also incredibly versatile. It can be served over rice, vegetables, noodles, or even used in wraps and bowls. Whether you want a family friendly dinner, an easy meal prep option, or a clean eating recipe that does not sacrifice taste, this recipe meets all of those needs. The straightforward cooking method makes it ideal for beginners, busy parents, students, or anyone who appreciates simple but flavorful meals.

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Why You Will Love This Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Dinner with almost zero effort

One of the biggest draws of this recipe is how minimal the work truly is. The entire dish relies on combining a few simple ingredients in the crockpot and letting time do the rest. There is no browning, sautéing, or pre cooking required for success.

Family friendly flavors

The sweet and savory balance of teriyaki sauce appeals to both adults and children. It is mild enough for picky eaters but flavorful enough for those who love bold dishes.

Perfect for meal prep

Crockpot teriyaki chicken stores well, reheats beautifully, and works in multiple meal combinations. It can fill lunch bowls, wraps, salads, or grain dishes for several days.

Healthy dinner option

This recipe can be adjusted to fit clean eating preferences, lower sugar goals, and protein focused diets. You have full control over sweetness, sodium, and ingredient choices.

Budget friendly ingredients

Chicken, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a few pantry staples keep this recipe affordable and accessible. For families trying to keep weekly grocery bills low while still enjoying nutritious meals, this dish is a smart option.

Naturally dairy free

There is no dairy included unless added for serving, making this recipe easy to adapt to dietary restrictions.

Ingredients Breakdown for Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Chicken

Chicken breasts work well and create tender slices or shredded pieces. Chicken thighs offer a juicier texture and deeper flavor. Either option will produce excellent results.

Soy sauce

This forms the base of the teriyaki flavor. Low sodium soy sauce is recommended to balance saltiness. Coconut aminos may be used for a lighter, slightly sweeter flavor.

Garlic and ginger

These aromatics give depth and warmth to the sauce. Fresh or jarred options both work.

Rice vinegar

Provides a gentle acidity that rounds out the sweetness in the sauce.

Brown sugar or honey

Adds sweetness and creates the signature sticky teriyaki glaze. Honey is a great option for those wanting a cleaner ingredient choice.

Sesame oil

Just a small amount adds an authentic toasted flavor that elevates the entire dish.

Cornstarch slurry

This thickens the sauce after cooking so that it coats the chicken beautifully.

Green onions and sesame seeds

Optional toppings that add color, texture, and a fresh finishing touch.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1 Add chicken to the crockpot

Place the chicken breasts or thighs directly into the bottom of the slow cooker. They can overlap slightly but should sit mostly in a single layer for even cooking.

Step 2 Mix the sauce ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, brown sugar or honey, and sesame oil. This sauce will thicken later but should be fully combined before pouring.

Step 3 Pour the sauce over the chicken

Make sure all pieces are covered by the liquid. This allows the flavors to absorb fully as the chicken cooks.

Step 4 Cook on low or high

Cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should be tender enough to shred easily.

Step 5 Shred or slice the chicken

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and transfer it to a plate or cutting board. Use two forks to shred it or slice it into pieces depending on how you plan to serve it.

Step 6 Thicken the sauce

Stir the cornstarch slurry into the cooking liquid in the crockpot. Set the slow cooker to high and allow it to thicken for several minutes.

Step 7 Return the chicken to the sauce

Place the shredded chicken back into the crockpot and coat it thoroughly with the thickened teriyaki glaze.

Step 8 Serve and garnish

Serve with rice or vegetables and top with sesame seeds and green onions.

Helpful Notes and Top Tips

Do not overcook the chicken

Chicken can become dry if cooked too long. Check for tenderness at the recommended times.

Adjust sweetness easily

Add more or less honey or sugar depending on how sweet you prefer your sauce.

Add vegetables

You can place carrots, pineapple, or bell peppers into the crockpot during the last hour of cooking for added texture and color.

Double the recipe

This recipe scales well and freezes beautifully, making it ideal for large families or batch cooking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving ideas

• Over steamed rice
• With broccoli or snow peas
• In lettuce wraps
• Over noodles
• In meal prep containers with vegetables

Variations

• Add pineapple for Hawaiian teriyaki chicken
• Use chicken thighs for richer flavor
• Add chili flakes for spice
• Use coconut aminos for a milder sauce

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The chicken will absorb more sauce overnight, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Reheating

Reheat gently with a splash of water if needed.

Why You Will Make It Again

This Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken becomes a repeat recipe because it is consistent, simple, and customizable. It provides a flavorful dinner with minimal work, making busy nights feel more manageable. The recipe fits meal prep, family dinners, and healthy eating goals without compromise. Once you try it, it becomes a staple in your collection of go to dinners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?

It is safer to use thawed chicken to ensure even cooking in a slow cooker.

Can I make this recipe gluten free?

Use gluten free soy sauce or coconut aminos in place of regular soy sauce.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes. Add all ingredients to a freezer bag (except cornstarch) and freeze. Thaw overnight and cook normally.

Can I make this without sugar?

Yes. You can reduce or omit the sugar and rely on natural sweetness from coconut aminos or pineapple.

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