The aroma of tangy teriyaki sauce simmering in the kitchen takes me back to those laid-back game days filled with laughter and delicious bites. If you’re looking to impress your guests or treat yourself with minimal effort, these Easy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Wings are just the ticket. Bursting with the comforting flavors of garlic and ginger, this recipe transforms simple chicken wings into a mouthwatering crowd-pleaser. The best part? You can set it and forget it, allowing the slow cooker to do the hard work while you prepare for a fun gathering. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy family dinner, these wings are a surefire way to elevate your mealtime without breaking a sweat. What’s your favorite dipping sauce to accompany these irresistible wings?
Why Are Teriyaki Chicken Wings So Appealing?
Simplicity reigns supreme with this recipe, requiring just a few hassle-free ingredients. Flavorful Delight comes from the rich teriyaki glaze infused with garlic and ginger that transforms ordinary wings. Time-Saving is key; set your slow cooker and kick back as the magic happens. Crowd-Pleaser vibes are guaranteed—these wings will disappear faster than you can say “game day.” Pair them with celery sticks or your go-to dipping sauce for the ultimate experience. If you love convenience, check out our Marry Chicken Crock or BBQ Pulled Chicken recipes for more easy options!
Teriyaki Chicken Wings Ingredients
• These simple ingredients come together for a flavor-packed dish!
For the Wings
- Chicken Wings – The star of the dish, offering juicy, tender meat that soaks up the teriyaki flavors beautifully.
- Onion – Sweetens the sauce; yellow onion is recommended for depth.
For the Teriyaki Sauce
- Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Provides essential umami; swap with tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Light Brown Sugar – Balances the sauce’s saltiness; coconut sugar is a great alternative for a less processed sweetener.
- Rice Wine Vinegar – Adds necessary acidity; white vinegar can work as a substitute if needed.
- Ground Ginger – Infuses warming notes; fresh ginger gives a stronger flavor kick.
- Minced Garlic – Boosts flavor with its aromatic qualities; freshly minced is best for optimal deliciousness.
Thickening Options
- Cornstarch (optional) – Use to thicken your sauce; mix with water before adding to achieve the desired texture.
- Water – Required only if using cornstarch for thickening.
Finishing Touches
- White Sesame Seeds – For garnish, offering a slight nuttiness and visual appeal.
- Parsley – Optional, but adds a burst of freshness and color to your wings.
These Teriyaki Chicken Wings are a perfect appetizer for any gathering or game day event!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Wings
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by placing your chicken wings in the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly spread out for optimal cooking. Set your slow cooker to high and cover it with the lid. This will allow the wings to cook thoroughly and become tender, which typically takes about 2-3 hours on high heat or 4-5 hours on low heat.
Step 2: Mix the Teriyaki Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine finely chopped onion, low sodium soy sauce, light brown sugar, rice wine vinegar, ground ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well-blended. Once mixed, pour the teriyaki sauce generously over the chicken wings in the slow cooker, ensuring all wings are coated.
Step 3: Cook the Wings
With the sauce poured over the wings, cover the slow cooker with the lid once more. Allow the wings to cook undisturbed until they become tender and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This slow cooking process will infuse the teriyaki flavor throughout, making your wings succulent and mouthwatering.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker teriyaki sauce for your wings, remove the sauce from the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the sauce. Heat the sauce on the stove over medium heat while stirring until it thickens, which should take about 5-10 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the tender wings to a serving platter and drizzle the thickened teriyaki sauce over them for a glossy finish. Enhance the presentation by garnishing with white sesame seeds and fresh parsley for an extra pop of color. These Easy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Wings pair wonderfully with vegetable sticks or your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful treat.
How to Store and Freeze Teriyaki Chicken Wings
Fridge: Store any leftover teriyaki chicken wings in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure to cool them to room temperature before sealing.
Freezer: If you want to save extra wings, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat leftover chicken wings in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen teriyaki chicken wings, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating, ensuring they keep their delicious flavor and texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Wings are a fantastic candidate for meal prep! You can prepare the teriyaki sauce up to 24 hours in advance by combining the onion, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice wine vinegar, ginger, and garlic in a bowl and refrigerating it until you’re ready to cook. The chicken wings can also be placed in the slow cooker with the sauce for cooking up to 3 days ahead of time; just be sure to cover them properly to maintain their tenderness. When ready to serve, simply set the slow cooker on high and cook until the wings are juicy and flavorful, ensuring you have a delicious dish without the stress on game day!
What to Serve with Easy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Wings
The rich, sticky teriyaki glaze calls for delightful accompaniments to create a harmonious meal experience.
- Crispy Celery Sticks: Their refreshing crunch provides a perfect contrast to the succulent wings, refreshing your palate with each bite.
- Creamy Ranch Dressing: A classic pairing, this dressing offers a cool, tangy dip that enhances the flavor of the wings and adds a creamy texture.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed, these florets add a vibrant green touch that is not only nutritious but also complements the savory flavors beautifully.
- Garlic Rice: The subtle garlic notes in the rice echo the wings’ flavors, creating a cohesive dish that’s satisfying and hearty.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy texture pair wonderfully with the savory teriyaki glaze, adding different flavors and textures to your plate.
- Mango Slaw: A light and fruity slaw adds freshness and a zesty kick, balancing out the richness of the wings, making it a refreshing option.
- Light Beer or Hard Seltzer: These drinks enhance the casual, fun vibes of game day and are great for washing down those delicious sticky wings!
- Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, this indulgent treat adds a delightful finish to your meal, providing a sweet contrast to the savory wings.
Making your mealtime memorable is all about thoughtful pairings, and these options will take your Easy Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Wings to the next level!
Teriyaki Chicken Wings Variations
Feel free to transform your teriyaki wings into a personal masterpiece with these exciting variations!
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce for an extra layer of heat. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Honey Garlic: Substitute brown sugar with honey for a delightful twist that blends sweetness with an enticing garlic flavor.
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Crispy Skin: After slow cooking, broil your chicken wings for 5 minutes on each side to achieve that irresistible crispy finish.
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Pineapple Delight: Toss in chunks of pineapple during the last hour of cooking to bring a tropical sweetness that pairs perfectly with teriyaki.
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Herb Infusion: Add a handful of fresh chopped herbs like cilantro or basil to the sauce for a refreshing twist that brightens each bite.
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Tangy Teriyaki: Incorporate a splash of orange juice into your sauce for a zesty citrus flair that enhances the classic teriyaki profile.
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Ginger-Lime Fusion: Mix in freshly grated lime zest and a dash of lime juice for a bright and fragrant flavor that elevates your chicken wings.
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Slow Cooker Glaze: For a thicker glaze, add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking to make every bite more deliciously sticky!
For more irresistible recipes, like our Coconut Curry Chicken or Healthy Greek Chicken Bowls, check out these options to spice up your cooking routine!
Expert Tips for Teriyaki Chicken Wings
- Perfectly Crispy Skin: After slow cooking, broil the wings in the oven for 5 minutes per side to achieve that mouthwatering crispness.
- Even Coating: Use a spatula to ensure each wing is well-coated with the teriyaki sauce; this prevents any dry bites and enhances flavor.
- Storage Solution: Store any leftover teriyaki chicken wings in an airtight container which can last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overcrowd your slow cooker; if the wings are stacked, they won’t cook evenly, leading to undercooked portions.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick in your teriyaki chicken wings.
Teriyaki Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken wings?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken wings, look for ones that are plump and have a uniform color. Avoid wings with dark spots or discoloration, which could indicate age. Fresh wings should feel firm to the touch and have minimal ice crystals if frozen. For the best texture, opt for organic or free-range chickens if possible.
How should I store leftover teriyaki chicken wings?
Very! Store leftover teriyaki chicken wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s best to let them cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid moisture buildup, which can make the wings soggy. Simply reheat them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
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Can I freeze teriyaki chicken wings?
Absolutely! To freeze your teriyaki chicken wings, start by cooling them completely. Arrange the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent sticking, and freeze them for a few hours. Once they’re solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What should I do if my teriyaki sauce is too thin?
If your teriyaki sauce turns out too thin, no worries at all! You can thicken it by removing the sauce from the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth and then whisk this slurry into the sauce. Heat the sauce on medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens to your desired consistency, which usually takes about 5-10 minutes.
Are teriyaki chicken wings healthy?
Very! While teriyaki chicken wings do contain sugars from the sauce, you can easily make them healthier by opting for low-sodium soy sauce and using less sugar or a natural sweetener. Additionally, chicken wings are a great source of protein. Just be mindful of portion sizes and consider pairing them with fresh veggies or a salad for a more balanced meal.
Can I use another protein for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a variation, you can substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor and texture. Alternatively, you could even try this recipe with tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that the cooking times are adjusted to suit the protein you choose—thighs may take a bit longer, while tofu will likely cook faster!
Savory Teriyaki Chicken Wings That Steal the Show
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Chicken by placing it in the slow cooker, ensuring an even spread.
- Mix the Teriyaki Sauce in a bowl, whisking ingredients until well-blended, then pour over the wings.
- Cook the Wings undisturbed until tender and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- To thicken the sauce, remove it about 30 minutes before serving, and heat with cornstarch slurry.
- Serve the wings on a platter, drizzled with sauce, and garnish with sesame seeds and parsley.
