Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

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Let’s be honest—between work, errands, and the never-ending “what’s for dinner?” chorus, sometimes you just need a recipe that practically cooks itself.
That’s exactly why I love Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken. No browning pans, no fancy chef moves—just toss everything in, go live your life, and come back to a kitchen that smells like your favorite takeout spot.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or those days when you’d rather fold laundry than stand over a stove. (And if you know me, that’s saying something!) It’s savory, a little sweet, and packed with that irresistible teriyaki flavor—without the sodium overload or mystery ingredients from a bottle.

Why You’ll Love This Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Effortless: Truly a “set it and forget it” dinner.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will ask for seconds.
Make-Ahead Magic: Works great for meal prep—hello, easy lunches!
Customizable: Swap rice for noodles, add veggies, or spice it up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1.5–2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
¼ cup honey
¼ cup rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1 tbsp sesame oil (optional, but lovely for depth of flavor)
2–3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp grated fresh ginger (or ½ tsp ground ginger)
¼ cup water
1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (for garnish)

How to Make Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

The beauty of this recipe is right there in the name—dump and go. No searing, no sautéing, no complicated steps. Just pure slow-cooker magic. Here’s how to turn a handful of everyday ingredients into a flavorful, saucy dinner your family will rave about.

Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

Before you even plug in the crockpot, lay everything out on the counter. It’s a small step, but trust me, it saves you from that mid-recipe “Wait, where’s the soy sauce?” panic.

If you’re using fresh ginger, give it a quick grate (or peel and slice if you prefer a milder punch).
Mince your garlic so it’s ready to release all that savory goodness as it cooks.

Step 2: Dump Everything In

Place your chicken breasts or thighs directly into the crockpot. No oil, no pre-cooking—just let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting.
Pour in the soy sauce, honey, vinegar, and sesame oil (if using). Sprinkle in the garlic and ginger. Add the water to make sure there’s enough liquid to create that beautiful, silky sauce.
It might not look like much at this stage, but in a few hours, those simple ingredients will transform into something mouthwatering.

Step 3: Set It and Forget It

Now comes the best part—let your slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day.

Low: 4–5 hours for the most tender, fall-apart chicken.
High: 2–3 hours if you’re running short on time.

Your kitchen will start smelling like a cozy Japanese bistro, and you’ll have the smug satisfaction of knowing dinner is basically making itself.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once it’s fully cooked, carefully remove the chicken onto a cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces—it should fall apart easily.
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot so it can soak up even more of that savory-sweet teriyaki sauce. This step is key for maximum flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you like your teriyaki sauce a little richer and clingier, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water to make a quick slurry.
Stir this into the crockpot, then cook uncovered for another 15–20 minutes. You’ll end up with a glossy, restaurant-style sauce that hugs every piece of chicken.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop generous portions over steamed white rice, nutty brown rice, or your favorite noodles.
For that final “wow” factor, sprinkle with sesame seeds and fresh green onions. Not only do they add flavor, but they make the dish look as good as it tastes.

And there you have it—a low-effort, high-reward dinner that you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for busy days.

Tips for the Best Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Go Thighs for Juiciness: Chicken thighs stay tender and flavorful even if you let it cook a little longer.
Veggie Boost: Toss in broccoli florets or sliced bell peppers during the last hour of cooking.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Sauce Rescue: If you accidentally make it too salty, add a splash of water or a spoonful of honey to balance it out.

A Little Story from My Kitchen

The first time I made this, I had three things going against me—an almost-empty fridge, a busy school night for my kids, and my own craving for teriyaki chicken. I threw this together on a whim, crossed my fingers, and… it became one of those rare meals where no one asked for ketchup. That, my friends, is the ultimate victory.

Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken pieces coated in glossy teriyaki sauce, topped with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. — Tender Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken—juicy bites in a rich, sweet-savory sauce, finished with sesame seeds and fresh green onions.

FAQs About Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes—just add an extra hour to the cooking time on low.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.

How do I store leftovers?

Cool completely, then store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Let’s Make Dinner Easy Again

If dinner has been feeling like a chore lately, Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken might just bring the joy back. With minimal effort, you’ll have a wholesome, flavor-packed meal ready to go—perfect for busy families, working professionals, or anyone who’d rather spend their evening relaxing instead of hovering over a stove.

Your slow cooker is calling… and so is this teriyaki chicken.

More Delicious Recipes to Try Next

If you loved this Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken, you might enjoy exploring a few more easy and flavorful meals from my kitchen. These hand-picked recipes pair beautifully with the cozy, family-friendly vibe of today’s dish:

Warm up with a comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Orange Chicken—sweet, tangy, and just as “set it and forget it” as our teriyaki favorite.
Switch up your weeknight dinner routine with Chicken Chow Mein, packed with tender chicken and crisp veggies in a savory sauce.
Keep the Asian-inspired theme going with my Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl—perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch.
For a little heat and bold flavor, try Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts—a balance of sweet, spicy, and crispy perfection.

These recipes make great companions to your weeknight meal plan and keep that delicious, fuss-free dinner energy going strong.