Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken

Name: Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup teriyaki sauce; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 tablespoon minced ginger; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy the delightful flavors of teriyaki sauce combined with tender chicken in this easy slow cooker recipe.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-28T14:58:12.161Z

This Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is a family favorite that combines the savory taste of teriyaki with a creamy twist. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich teriyaki flavor with a creamy twist
Tender chicken that practically falls apart
Effortless preparation with a slow cooker

      

The Perfect Weeknight Dinner

Finding a meal that pleases the whole family can be a challenge, but this Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is sure to be a hit. The rich flavors of the homemade teriyaki sauce combined with tender chicken thighs create a delightful dish that everyone will love. Plus, it requires minimal effort on your part, freeing up time for other important tasks or simply relaxing after a long day.

Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Just toss in the ingredients in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal waiting for you. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel accomplished without spending hours in the kitchen.

A Deliciously Versatile Dish

One of the best aspects of this Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken is its versatility. You can easily modify it to suit your dietary preferences or incorporate seasonal ingredients. For a healthier version, consider adding a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. These can be added in the last hour of cooking for a colorful and nutritious boost.

Alternatively, if you're feeling adventurous, you can swap the chicken thighs for chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The teriyaki sauce and creamy coconut milk will still deliver that delectable flavor profile no matter what protein you choose. This means you can enjoy this recipe again and again while keeping things fresh and exciting.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

Serving this dish is as simple as it is satisfying. Once your creamy teriyaki chicken is ready, dish it up over a bed of fluffy white rice or your favorite noodles. The sauce is rich and flavorful, making it the perfect complement to the starchy base. If you're looking to add some extra textures and flavors, consider topping your dish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a delightful crunch.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha can elevate the flavors even further. You can also pair this meal with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the sauce. The options are endless, allowing you to customize your plate just the way you like it.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious meal:

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup teriyaki sauce
1 cup coconut milk
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your dish:

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker, season with salt and pepper, and pour the teriyaki sauce over them.

Add Coconut Milk

Add the coconut milk, minced garlic, and minced ginger to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water until smooth. Stir into the slow cooker and cook for an additional 30 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Serve

Serve the creamy teriyaki chicken over rice or noodles and garnish with chopped green onions.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Nutritional Benefits

This Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers several nutritional benefits. Chicken thighs are a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. The addition of coconut milk provides healthy fats that can help keep you satiated and energized throughout the day.

Moreover, the garlic and ginger used in this recipe are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and potential health benefits. Incorporating these ingredients into your meals can support your immune system and digestive health, making this dish a wholesome choice for your family.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, you're in for a treat. Creamy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Simply place the cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate. When reheating, you can use a microwave or stovetop for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

For longer storage, consider freezing your leftovers. They can be stored in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed. The flavors often deepen after sitting, making your next meal even more delicious!

Pairing Suggestions

To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing this dish with a variety of sides. A crisp cucumber salad or a tangy Asian slaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy teriyaki chicken. Additionally, serving it alongside steamed jasmine rice or a bed of soba noodles gives a satisfying base for soaking up all that delicious sauce.

For a complete meal, you might also want to serve a light soup, such as miso soup, to start. This creates a well-rounded dining experience that is both flavorful and satisfying. Don't forget to enjoy this dish with a chilled glass of green tea or a light white wine for the ultimate pairing!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they may be less tender than thighs.

→ Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for some heat.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and cook them in the morning.

→ What can I serve with this teriyaki chicken?

It's great with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.