Dump-and-Go Teriyaki Chicken

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The Easiest Weeknight Dinner Ever

When you need a no-fuss dinner that practically cooks itself, this Dump-and-Go Teriyaki Chicken is a total lifesaver. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, walk away, and come back to juicy, flavor-packed chicken coated in a glossy, sweet-and-savory teriyaki sauce. It’s perfect for busy families, meal prep days, or anyone craving that takeout-style comfort without the work. Minimal prep, big flavor, and absolutely beginner-friendly—your new weeknight hero! 🍯🥢

⏱️ Time Breakdown

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3–4 hours on LOW or 2 hours on HIGH
  • Total Time: 5 minutes active, hands-off cooking
  • Servings: 4–6

📝 Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp ground)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry)
  • Optional garnish: sesame seeds, sliced green onions

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

  • Slow cooker (any size 4–6 qt)
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Small bowl for slurry
  • Wooden spoon

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

  1. Load the slow cooker: Place chicken thighs directly into the slow cooker—no need to chop.
  2. Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, water, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
  3. Dump & go: Pour the sauce over the chicken. Cover and cook 3–4 hours on LOW or 2 hours on HIGH.
  4. Thicken the sauce: Remove chicken and set aside. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the sauce, cover, and cook 5–10 minutes until slightly thick and glossy.
  5. Finish: Shred or chop chicken, return to the sauce, and stir gently to coat. Serve with rice or veggies. 😋🍚

💡 Pro Tips

  • Freezer-friendly: Assemble ingredients in a freezer bag—dump straight into the slow cooker on cooking day.
  • Sauce too thin? Add an extra ½ tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with water) and let simmer a little longer.
  • Add veggies: Broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers can be added during the last hour of cooking.
  • Chicken swap: Prefer leaner meat? Use chicken breasts but reduce cook time slightly to avoid drying out.

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