Crock-Pot Teriyaki Chicken & Rice – Easy One-Pot Dinner Recipe

First Line: If you’re craving a cozy, hands-free dinner that fills your home with mouthwatering aroma — this Crock-Pot Teriyaki Chicken & Rice recipe is exactly what you need!

This dish has become a trending dinner idea across the USA in 2025, thanks to its set-and-forget slow cooking style, perfectly tender chicken, and glossy teriyaki sauce coating fluffy rice and veggies. It’s comfort food made simple.

Why Crock-Pot Teriyaki Chicken & Rice Is Trending

In today’s busy schedules, people love slow-cooker meals that taste gourmet but require minimal effort.
The Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice trend combines:

• Asian-inspired flavors with home-style comfort.

• One-pot convenience — less mess, fewer dishes.

• Customizable ingredients — from chicken to tofu or veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Main Dish:

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

• 1 cup uncooked jasmine or long-grain rice (rinsed)

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• ½ cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp grated ginger

• 2 cups mixed veggies (broccoli, carrots, bell pepper)

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (optional for thickening)

• Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Homemade Teriyaki Sauce (Optional)

If you love a fresh, homemade touch, whisk together:

• ¼ cup soy sauce

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar

• 1 tbsp mirin or honey

• 1 tsp minced garlic

• 1 tsp minced ginger
  Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Layer the base. Add rice and chicken broth to the Crock-Pot. Stir in soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
Step 2: Add the chicken. Place the chicken on top and pour teriyaki sauce + sesame oil over it.
Step 3: Cook on Low for 4–5 hours (or High for 2–3 hours) until chicken and rice are tender.
Step 4: Add veggies during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Step 5: Thicken the sauce (optional) — add cornstarch slurry and let it simmer for 10 min.
Step 6: Shred chicken, mix with rice and veggies, then garnish with sesame seeds and scallions.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Avoid using instant rice — it’ll get mushy.

• If sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth before serving.

• For a glossy finish, open the lid in the last 10 minutes to let steam escape.

• Vegetarian twist: swap chicken for tofu and use vegetable broth.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~420

• Protein: 32g

• Carbs: 55g

• Fat: 8g

• Fiber: 3g

(Values approximate depending on ingredients used.)

Storage & Reheat Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days in the fridge.

• Reheat gently in a pan or microwave with a splash of water or broth.

• Freeze up to 1 month for easy meal prep.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice with:

• Fresh cucumber salad or Asian slaw

• Miso soup or light broth

• Pineapple cubes for a tropical side

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

(“Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice”)

1. Can I use instant rice in Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice?

A: It’s not recommended. Instant rice cooks too quickly and can turn mushy. For best texture, use long-grain or jasmine rice — they stay fluffy and soak up the teriyaki flavor perfectly.

2. How long does it take to cook Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice?

A: On Low, it takes about 4 to 5 hours, and on High, around 2 to 3 hours. Cooking slowly allows the chicken to become juicy and lets the rice absorb all the delicious teriyaki sauce.

3. Can I make Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice vegetarian or vegan?

A: Absolutely! Replace chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The teriyaki flavor still shines beautifully.

4. How can I thicken the teriyaki sauce in the slow cooker?

A: Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water, stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking, and keep the lid slightly open. This gives you that glossy, restaurant-style sauce.

5. What vegetables go best with Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice?

A: Try broccoli florets, bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas — they add color, crunch, and freshness to your dish. You can also toss in pineapple chunks for a tropical twist!

6. Can I meal-prep Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice?

A: Yes! This recipe stores perfectly. Keep portions in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the fridge or 1 month in the freezer. Just reheat with a splash of water or broth before serving.

7. What makes this Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice recipe so popular in the USA?

A: Because it’s simple, flavorful, and hands-free! The slow cooker does all the work — giving you tender chicken, saucy rice, and veggies with zero stress. It’s comfort food that cooks itself.

8. Can I double this recipe for a family dinner or party?

A: Definitely! Just double all ingredients but keep the same cooking time. The Crock Pot evenly distributes heat, so your rice and chicken will still cook perfectly.

9. How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker?

A: Before adding ingredients, spray the inner pot with light oil or cooking spray. Also, layer rice first and liquids immediately after — that prevents dryness or sticking.

10. Is Crock Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice gluten-free?

A: It can be! Use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in your teriyaki mix. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.