10-Minute Prep Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken & Rice

In today’s fast-paced world, having a few go-to recipes that are easy to make yet delicious is a lifesaver. The 10-Minute Prep Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken & Rice recipe is one such dish. It requires only 10 minutes of prep time and a slow cooker to transform simple ingredients into a flavorful and filling meal. Whether you’re short on time or just looking for a comforting dinner with minimal effort, this dish delivers on both convenience and taste.

In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Teriyaki Chicken & Rice in your slow cooker.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try?

Effortless Prep: As the name suggests, this recipe takes just 10 minutes of active prep time. The slow cooker does the rest, allowing you to focus on other things while dinner cooks itself.
One-Pot Meal: With the chicken, rice, and sauce all cooked together in the slow cooker, there’s little to clean up afterward.
Family-Friendly: This dish is loved by both adults and kids. The sweet and savory flavors are balanced perfectly, making it a hit for any dinner table.
Customizable: Adjust the ingredients or flavors to suit your tastes. Whether you want to add vegetables or spice things up, this recipe is versatile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this simple yet flavorful meal, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a richer flavor)
• 2 cups jasmine or basmati rice (uncooked)
• 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce (for a healthier option)
• 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup for a different twist)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (adds a subtle tanginess)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil (or olive oil)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated or minced (for that fresh, zesty flavor)
• 1/2 cup water (to cook the rice)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the sauce)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2-3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken & Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. This is the base of your dish, and the chicken will absorb all the flavors of the teriyaki sauce as it cooks.

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir the mixture until the honey is dissolved and everything is well combined. This sauce is the heart of your dish, adding that perfect balance of savory and sweet.

Step 3: Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken

Once the sauce is ready, pour it evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is well-coated, ensuring it soaks up all the flavorful sauce while cooking.

Step 4: Add Rice and Water

Next, sprinkle the uncooked rice over the chicken. Pour the water over the rice, ensuring it is evenly distributed across the top. The rice will absorb all the delicious sauce as it cooks, creating a rich and flavorful dish.

Step 5: Slow Cook the Dish

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The chicken will cook until it’s perfectly tender and the rice will absorb all the flavors, making for a mouth-watering meal.

Step 6: Optional – Thicken the Sauce

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will help thicken the sauce to give it a richer consistency.

Step 7: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is done cooking, remove it from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred it. It should shred easily due to the long cooking time. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing it with the rice and sauce.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Teriyaki Chicken & Rice in bowls, and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added texture and a burst of flavor.

Tips for Making the Best Teriyaki Chicken & Rice

• Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Flavor: If you prefer a richer flavor, use chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs have more fat, which makes them juicier and more flavorful.
• Add Vegetables: For added nutrition and color, you can throw in some chopped carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli during the last hour of cooking. This will give you a complete one-pot meal.
• Spicy Kick: If you like spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of sriracha to the sauce for an extra layer of heat.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s an easy lunch or dinner option throughout the week.

Why Slow Cooking Works So Well for This Dish?

Slow cooking is perfect for dishes like Teriyaki Chicken & Rice because it allows all the flavors to meld together over time. The chicken becomes fall-apart tender, while the rice cooks perfectly in the flavorful sauce. The slow cooker also keeps the meal warm for hours, making it a great option if you have a busy day ahead and want dinner ready when you return home.

Conclusion

This 10-Minute Prep Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken & Rice recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and flavorful meal. With minimal prep time and a slow cooker that does all the work, you’ll have a delicious dinner that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re feeding a family, preparing for the week ahead, or simply want a comforting meal after a busy day, this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the tender chicken, flavorful rice, and the irresistible teriyaki sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)