Sweet and Spicy Teriyaki Chicken (Easy Sticky Chicken Recipe)
October 13, 2025
super easy
Some nights I want dinner that tastes like takeout, but without the junk. This Sweet and Spicy Teriyaki Chicken is fast enough to survive the chaos of a weeknight. With spring sports approaching, dinners that take more than 15 minutes of hands on time are out.
It tastes like something you’d order from your favorite takeout spot, but it’s made right at home with simple pantry ingredients. The sauce is what makes this recipe. I use a clean, store bought teriyaki BBQ— sweet, savory, garlicky, and just a little spicy and combine it with a few ingredients at home. As it cooks, the sauce thickens into that glossy, sticky glaze that coats every piece of chicken perfectly.
What I love most about making teriyaki chicken at home is that you get full control over the ingredients. Many bottled sauces are loaded with preservatives or unnecessary additives, but this version uses real ingredients like coco aminos, garlic, ginger, honey, and a touch of heat to bring everything together. It’s one of those small swaps that makes dinner flavorful, but is a little better for you.
As a busy mom who still loves to cook, I’m always looking for recipes that create the balance between homemade and realistic. Some seasons of life allow for elaborate meals, but most weeknights require something faster. This recipe is exactly that. The chicken cooks quickly in a slow cooker- that’s the trick to an easy meal.
Another reason this recipe works so well for families is how versatile it is. You can serve this sweet and spicy teriyaki chicken over rice, alongside roasted vegetables, or even tucked into lettuce wraps. If your kids prefer things on the milder side, you can simply reduce the spice and keep the sweet and savory flavors. If you like a little more heat, add an extra pinch of chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
This dish has quickly become one of those meals I know I can rely on when I need something flavorful without a lot of effort. It’s the kind of dinner that feels satisfying after a long day but doesn’t require hovering over the stove or juggling a dozen ingredients.
The sticky glaze, tender chicken, and balanced sweet and spicy flavor make this recipe a repeat request in our house. It’s proof that you don’t have to rely on takeout to get those bold teriyaki flavors — you can make a better, fresher version right in your own kitchen.
If you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner that feels a little more exciting than the usual rotation, this Sweet and Spicy Teriyaki Chicken is one recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket.
Quick Ingredient Snap Shot
- organic boneless skinless chicken thighs
- sea salt
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- ground ginger
- rice vinegar
- rib rack teriyaki marinade
- coconut aminos
- honey
- chili hot sauce
- sesame oil
- smoked paprika
- arrow root
- water
- sesame seeds
- green onions
- broccoli florets
- organic jasmine rice
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Sweet and Spicy Teriyaki Chicken
Equipment
- 1 slow cooker
Ingredients
- 1½ lb organic boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tsp flaky sea salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp ginger
Sauce
- ½ tbsp rice vinegar
- ½ cup Rib Rack Teriyaki Marinade
- ¼ cup coconut aminos
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp hot sauce chili
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- ½ tsp sesame oil
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp arrow root
- 2 tsp water
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- 2 cup organic broccoli florets steamed
- 2 cup organic jasmine rice cooked
Instructions
- Turn a slow cooker to high. While that is heating up, mix together in a small spice bowl 2 tsp flaky sea salt, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder and ¼ tsp ginger.
- In another small bowl whisk together ½ tbsp rice vinegar, ½ cup Rib Rack Teriyaki Marinade, ¼ cup coconut aminos, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tsp hot sauce, ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, ½ tsp sesame oil, ¼ tsp smoked paprika.
- On a plate sprinkle the salt mixture onto the 1½ lb organic boneless skinless chicken thighs. Press it in on both sides.
- Add the chicken to the slow cooker in a single layer. Dump any remaining seasoning that didn't adhere into the slow cooker.
- Pour the sauce mixture over top, sprinkle with 1 tsp sesame seeds and ¼ cup chopped green onions.
- Place the lid on and cook on high about 2 hours. I like to spoon the sauce over a few times while it cooks.
- 30 minutes before serving, mix together 1 tsp arrow root and 2 tsp water. Pour into the slow cooker and whisk. (This thickens the sauce)
- Serve over rice with broccoli. Spoon the sauce out and drizzle over to your desired taste.
Substitutions and Variations
Protein: Swap chicken for pork tenderloin or shrimp.
Veggies: Add bell peppers, carrots or snap peas.
Extra Heat: Add in extra hot sauce.
Storage and Freezer Tips
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in air tight container up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cut of chicken works best for slow cooker teriyaki chicken?
Both boneless skinless chicken thighs and chicken breasts work well. Chicken thighs tend to stay slightly more tender because they contain more natural fat, but chicken breasts are also a great lean option and shred easily after cooking.
How do you thicken teriyaki sauce in a slow cooker?
If you want a thicker, stickier teriyaki sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking and let the sauce thicken.
Can I make slow cooker teriyaki chicken ahead of time?
Yes. This recipe is great for meal prep. The chicken can be cooked in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can slow cooker teriyaki chicken be frozen?
Yes. Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
What should I serve with teriyaki chicken?
Slow cooker teriyaki chicken pairs well with simple sides that balance the sweet and savory sauce. Some easy options include:
- steamed jasmine rice
- fried rice
- roasted broccoli
- sesame green beans
- cucumber salad
- shredded cabbage or slaw
Can I make this teriyaki chicken less spicy?
Yes. Simply reduce or omit the hot sauce and smoke paprika The recipe will still have the classic sweet and savory teriyaki flavor.
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