Source: Closetcooking.com

Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki Recipe

### Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki

**Prep Time**: 10 minutes
**Cook Time**: 8 hours 10 minutes
**Total Time**: 8 hours 20 minutes
**Servings**: 4

#### Summary
Teriyaki chicken that’s as effortless as tossing all the ingredients into the slow cooker in the morning, and it’s ready in just 5 minutes of work when you arrive home in the evening!

#### Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
– 1 onion, sliced or diced
– 1 tablespoon minced or grated garlic
– 1 tablespoon minced or grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free if needed)
– 2 tablespoons sake (optional)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (optional)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional)
– 1/2 cup water (or chicken broth)
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional)
– 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
– 4 green onions, sliced thinly (optional)

#### Directions
1. In a slow cooker, combine the chicken and onion, then pour the mixture of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, vinegar, and water over them. Cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours.
2. Take the chicken out and shred it.
3. Transfer the liquid and remaining components from the slow cooker into a saucepan, add the blend of the 2 tablespoons of water and the cornstarch, bring to a boil, reduce heat, and let it simmer until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Combine the chicken, sauce, sesame oil, sesame seeds, and green onions and savor!

#### Options
– Substitute sugar with brown sugar, maple syrup, honey, etc.
– Incorporate vegetables!

#### Nutrition Facts
– Calories: 180
– Fat: 5g (Saturated 0.8g, Trans 0)
– Cholesterol: 82mg
– Sodium: 496mg
– Carbs: 14g (Fiber 1g, Sugars 7g)
– Protein: 27g

Nutrition by: [Edamam](https://www.edamam.com/)

Ground Chicken with Sweet Chili Sauce

Ground Chicken with Sweet Chili

Preparation Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Duration: 20 minutes Yields: 4

An effortless and speedy dish featuring ground chicken in a delicious sweet chili sauce!

ingredients

• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 1 pound ground chicken (or you can use beef or pork)
• 1 diced onion
• 1 diced red bell pepper (optional)
• 1 diced yellow bell pepper (optional)
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce (link)
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (or can substitute with rice vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
• 2 green onions, sliced thin

directions

1. In a skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat, add the ground chicken and cook while breaking it apart, for about 5 minutes.
2. Introduce the onion and bell peppers, cooking until softened, approximately 5-8 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, sweet chili sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, and oyster sauce, combine well, and cook until aromatic, roughly one minute.
4. Incorporate the cilantro and green onions, then serve and enjoy!

Suggestion: Serve on rice accompanied by cucumber, carrots, roasted peanuts, and extra sweet chili sauce!

Recipes for Low-Carb Dishes

**The Top Low-Carb Recipes on Closet Cooking**

In light of the increasing interest in low-carb selections, Closet Cooking has assembled a comprehensive assortment of recipes aimed at those wanting to lower their carbohydrate consumption. With close to 500 low-carb recipes at your fingertips, the site presents a wide variety of dishes, guaranteeing that you can relish flavorful meals without sacrificing taste or diversity. Ranging from light and nutritious to quick and straightforward, these recipes include everything from breakfasts and snacks to dinners and sides.

**Breakfasts:**
Kick off your morning with wholesome and fulfilling low-carb breakfast choices. Recipes such as the “Keto Egg Muffins” and “Avocado and Bacon Breakfast Salad” offer a protein-rich beginning to your day, while the “Low-Carb Pancakes” provide a delightful variation on a beloved classic.

**Snacks:**
For those between-meal urges, Closet Cooking features an assortment of low-carb snacks. The “Cheese Crisps” and “Zucchini Pizza Bites” are ideal for a fast nibble, while the “Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers” introduce a zesty twist to your snacking.

**Dinners:**
Dinner selections are plentiful, with recipes like “Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus” and “Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Grilled Chicken” delivering tasty and hearty meals. The “Stuffed Bell Peppers” and “Cauliflower Fried Rice” make fantastic options for those wanting to savor a substantial dinner without the carbs.

**Sides:**
Enhance your main courses with delectable low-carb sides. The “Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon” and “Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower Mash” are favorites that complement any dish.

**Appetizers/Soups/Salads:**
Discover a selection of appetizers, soups, and salads that are low in carbs yet high in flavor. The “Caprese Salad Skewers” and “Creamy Tomato Basil Soup” are ideal for kicking off any meal, while the “Greek Salad” provides a refreshing and nutritious choice.

Closet Cooking has simplified the process of finding these low-carb recipes by tagging and categorizing them for straightforward access. Whether you’re new to low-carb dining or an experienced veteran, this compilation offers limitless inspiration for every meal throughout the day. Immerse yourself in the realm of low-carb cooking and uncover the scrumptious options that await!

Shepherd’s Pie featuring Sweet Potato and Turkey

Turkey Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie

Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 45 minutes Total Duration: 1 hour Servings: 6

A delightful shepherd’s pie featuring sweet potatoes, turkey, and a variety of vegetables!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled
• salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil (or butter)
• 1 pound ground turkey (or beef or chicken)
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon rosemary, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon thyme, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon sage, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (gluten-free for gluten-free)
• 1 cup chicken broth (link) (or beef broth)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (gluten-free for gluten-free)
• 2 cups frozen peas and carrots (or frozen peas, or frozen vegetable mix)
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Combine the chopped sweet potatoes and whole garlic cloves in a pot, cover with water, bring to a boil, and cook until the sweet potatoes are soft, approximately 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the water and mash the sweet potatoes and garlic, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, and set aside.
3. In the meantime, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the turkey, onion, and celery, and cook, breaking the turkey apart while it browns, for about 10-15 minutes.
4. Incorporate the garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, and tomato paste, sprinkle in the flour, stir, and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in the broth and Worcestershire sauce, stir, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Stir in the frozen vegetables, allow them to heat through for about 5 minutes, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the meat mixture to the bottom of an 8×13 inch baking dish, and top with the mashed potatoes.
8. Bake in a preheated 350F/180C oven until the edges are bubbling, roughly 20-30 minutes.

Optional: Stir melted butter into the mashed sweet potatoes.
Optional: Incorporate 1/4 cup heavy/whipping cream into the mashed sweet potatoes.
Optional: Mix in 1/4 cup grated parmigiano reggiano (parmesan cheese) to the mashed sweet potatoes.
Note: I used a package of frozen peas and carrots, which saved me time on dicing carrots. If you opt for just frozen peas, add 1 cup of diced carrots along with the onions.

Fast and Simple Lentil Bolognese in 30 Minutes

### Simple and Fast Bolognese Sauce with Lentils and Mushrooms

Bolognese sauce, an iconic Italian dish, is usually a rich, meaty concoction slow-cooked to perfection. For those in search of a lighter, vegetarian option, a quick and simple variant utilizing lentils and mushrooms as the “meat” can be equally fulfilling. This recipe provides a wholesome spin on the classic meal, enabling you to relish a delightful dish in under 30 minutes.

#### Ingredients:
– **Lentils**: These legumes act as the protein-rich foundation of the sauce, delivering a robust texture that resembles meat.
– **Mushrooms**: Offering depth and umami, mushrooms enhance the lentils beautifully.
– **Vegetables**: Onions, carrots, and celery create the aromatic base, enriching the sauce with flavor.
– **Tomatoes or Marinara Sauce**: The essence of any bolognese, tomatoes add acidity and richness. Choose marinara sauce for extra convenience.
– **Seasonings**: Garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian herbs boost the sauce with aromatic and spicy nuances.
– **Balsamic Vinegar**: A dash of balsamic vinegar brings a touch of sweetness and tang, harmonizing the tastes.
– **Parmesan Cheese**: A sprinkle of parmesan cheese completes the sauce with a savory, cheesy essence.

#### Method:
1. **Prepare the Base**: Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in a skillet until they soften. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and turn golden.
2. **Add Lentils**: Fold in cooked lentils, letting them soak up the vegetable flavors.
3. **Incorporate Tomatoes**: Pour in crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce, stirring to blend.
4. **Season**: Mix in garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian herbs. Combine thoroughly.
5. **Simmer**: Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, permitting the flavors to merge.
6. **Finish with Balsamic and Parmesan**: Stir in balsamic vinegar and sprinkle parmesan cheese over the sauce, blending until the cheese melts.

#### Serving Suggestions:
Serve this quick bolognese sauce atop your favorite pasta. As the sauce assembles in the time it takes to boil and cook pasta, you can have a complete meal ready in merely 30 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra burst of freshness.

This lentil and mushroom bolognese is not only swift and straightforward but also a wholesome alternative to the traditional meat-based sauce. Savor the comforting flavors of Italy with a contemporary, plant-based twist!

Nutrient-Packed Recipes to Begin the New Year

**Jumpstart Your New Year with Tasty and Nutritious Recipes from Closet Cooking**

As the New Year begins, many of us are keen to adopt healthier eating patterns, especially after the indulgence of the holiday festivities. The great news is that lighter eating can be full of flavor. Closet Cooking presents a wonderful array of recipes that are both wholesome and scrumptious, ideal for maintaining those New Year’s goals.

**Breakfasts to Revitalize Your Day**

Kick off your day with a surge of energy by experimenting with some of these nutritious breakfast choices. The Avocado Toast topped with a Poached Egg is a timeless favorite, blending creamy avocado with a flawlessly poached egg on whole-grain bread. For something slightly different, the Greek Yogurt Parfait loaded with Fresh Berries and Granola provides a revitalizing and protein-rich beginning to your day.

**Soups and Salads for Any Occasion**

Soups and salads are essential for light dining, and Closet Cooking has an abundance to share. The Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a cozy bowl of comfort, overflowing with the tastes of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil. For a salad that is both fulfilling and healthy, consider the Quinoa and Black Bean Salad, brimming with protein and fiber.

**Main Courses That Delight**

When it comes to entrees, you needn’t sacrifice flavor for wellness. The Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a straightforward yet tasty dish, marinated with fresh herbs and lemon juice. For a plant-based choice, the Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes is a colorful and gratifying meal that won’t weigh you down.

**Sides and Snacks to Enhance Your Meal**

Complete your meals with some flavorful sides and snacks. The Roasted Brussels Sprouts drizzled with Balsamic Glaze provide a delightful way to savor your greens, while the Spicy Roasted Chickpeas are a crunchy and irresistible snack that’s ideal for game day.

**Conclusion**

Eating healthily doesn’t have to be a hassle, and with these recipes from Closet Cooking, you can savor a variety of flavors and textures without feeling deprived. Whether you want a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or a fulfilling dinner, this collection has something for everyone. Welcome the New Year with these delectable and healthy recipes, and relish every bite along the way!

A Complete Manual for 100 Snacks for Game Day

### Game Day Treats: Simple and Tasty Recipes

Game day is about more than just the excitement of the competition; it’s also about savoring delicious food with loved ones. Whether you’re cheering solo, with a few pals, or hosting a large gathering, having a variety of delightful snacks is crucial. Here are some top game day treats recipes, from indulgent dips to substantial grilled meats, guaranteed to please everyone.

#### 1. Indulgent Dips
– **Buffalo Chicken Dip**: A spicy, creamy dip featuring shredded chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, and cheddar cheese. Ideal with tortilla chips or celery sticks.
– **Spinach Artichoke Dip**: A traditional creamy dip showcasing spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, and parmesan. Pair it with pita chips or bread.

#### 2. Chicken Wings
– **Traditional Buffalo Wings**: Coated in a zesty buffalo sauce, these wings are a must-have. Serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing.
– **Honey Garlic Wings**: These wings are coated in a sweet and savory honey and garlic glaze.

#### 3. Hearty Chilies
– **Beef and Bean Chili**: A slow-simmered chili made with ground beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, and spices. Garnish with cheese and sour cream.
– **Vegetarian Chili**: Loaded with beans, corn, and bell peppers, this chili is a filling choice for vegetarians.

#### 4. Grilled Meats
– **BBQ Ribs**: Tender ribs cooked slowly and covered in barbecue sauce, ideal for meat aficionados.
– **Grilled Sausages**: Serve alongside mustard and sauerkraut for a straightforward yet enjoyable snack.

#### 5. Jalapeno Poppers
– **Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers**: Jalapenos filled with cream cheese and wrapped in bacon, then baked until golden brown.

#### 6. Potato Skins
– **Loaded Potato Skins**: Crispy potato skins topped with cheese, bacon, and green onions. Accompany with sour cream.

#### 7. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
– **Traditional Grilled Cheese**: A straightforward yet flavorful sandwich with melted cheese nestled between buttery, toasted bread.
– **Gourmet Grilled Cheese**: Enhance with ingredients such as tomatoes, bacon, or avocado for a fresh take on the classic.

### Slow Cooker Suitable Choices
Numerous recipes can be modified for a slow cooker, making preparation a breeze. For instance, the beef and bean chili can simmer all day, and the buffalo chicken dip can stay warm and gooey.

### Conclusion
Ditch the takeout and wow your guests with these simple-to-prepare game day snacks. Whether you choose spicy wings, cheesy dips, or hearty chilies, these recipes are sure to elevate your game day celebration. Enjoy the match and the tasty food!

The Ultimate Closet Cooking 2026: An Exciting New Cookbook Launch

Happy New Year!

What could be a better way to kick off the New Year than by offering my new cookbook, The Best of Closet Cooking 2026, at no cost! This cookbook features the 25 most delicious and sought-after new recipes from Closet Cooking in 2025. The Best of Closet Cooking 2026 is available entirely for free to subscribers of the complimentary Closet Cooking email newsletter, which sends all the newest delightful recipes directly to your inbox, just out of the oven!

If you are already on the list for the Closet Cooking email newsletter, check for the link to download the cookbook in today’s newsletter! If not:

Alternatively, you can purchase the ecookbook here:

You can acquire the softcover edition on Amazon:

Commemorating the Happiness and Customs of Christmas

**Closet Cooking: Culinary Journeys in a Compact Kitchen**

In the lively realm of culinary discovery, “Closet Cooking” shines as a symbol for those who think that a small kitchen shouldn’t restrict one’s culinary imagination. Established by Kevin Lynch, this blog narrates his transition from basic meals to a lively spectrum of tastes, all prepared within the limits of a compact kitchen.

**The Birth of Closet Cooking**

Kevin’s culinary adventure started with a realization that many can identify with: the dullness of repetitive dishes. Eager to escape this routine, he set out on a quest to change his cooking practices. Despite the space limitations in his kitchen, Kevin took on the challenge, showing that creativity and flavor are not constrained by the dimensions of one’s cooking environment.

**A Universe of Tastes**

Closet Cooking exemplifies the richness of international cuisines. Kevin’s recipes take cues from various cultures, providing a delightful blend of tastes and methodologies. From zesty Thai curries to cozy Italian pasta, each recipe is a fresh exploration. His blog acts as a gourmet passport, encouraging readers to delve into world flavors without stepping outside their homes.

**Innovative and Easy-to-Follow Recipes**

One defining trait of Closet Cooking is its focus on accessibility. Kevin makes sure that his recipes are not only inventive but also attainable for chefs of every level. With straightforward directions and easily sourced ingredients, he simplifies intricate dishes, enabling home cooks to try new things and succeed in their culinary pursuits.

**Maximizing Compact Areas**

A vital element of Kevin’s blog is his knack for optimizing the potential of a limited kitchen. He offers tips and strategies for effective cooking, from arranging cramped counter space to employing multifunctional gadgets. His experience illustrates that with a dash of creativity, even the tiniest kitchens can whip up gourmet dishes.

**Community and Motivation**

Closet Cooking has fostered a lively community of culinary fans. Kevin’s enthusiasm for cooking is contagious, motivating others to begin their own food adventures. His blog is not merely a collection of recipes; it’s a wellspring of encouragement for anyone wishing to transform their connection with food.

**Final Thoughts**

Closet Cooking is more than simply a food blog; it’s a tribute to imagination, perseverance, and the pleasure of cooking. Kevin Lynch’s journey serves as a reminder that culinary exploration has no limitations and that even in the tiniest kitchens, one can prepare meals that are abundant in taste and delight. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a novice in the kitchen, Closet Cooking urges you to uncover the limitless opportunities that reside within your own culinary realm.

Tasty Dishes for an Unforgettable New Year’s Eve Festivity

**The Ultimate Recipes for a Spectacular New Year’s Eve!**

As the year comes to an end, it’s the perfect moment to begin preparations for New Year’s Eve. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or savoring a cozy night at home, having a variety of delightful snacks is vital to welcome the new year. Here are some of the top recipes to ensure your New Year’s Eve is unforgettable:

1. **Indulgent Cheese Fondue**
Melted cheese is a guaranteed hit. Whip up a rich and creamy cheese fondue featuring a mix of Gruyère and Emmental cheeses. Accompany it with a selection of dippables such as crusty bread, apple wedges, and blanched veggies.

2. **Grilled Skewers**
Ignite the grill and prepare an assortment of skewers. Experiment with marinated chicken, beef, or shrimp skewers, complemented by vibrant bell peppers and onions. For a vegetarian alternative, opt for mushrooms, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.

3. **Stuffed Mushrooms**
These small bites are ideal for any celebration. Stuff button mushrooms with a blend of cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until they turn golden and serve hot.

4. **Smoked Salmon Canapés**
For a touch of sophistication, top cucumber slices or small rounds of rye bread with cream cheese, smoked salmon, and a dash of dill. These canapés are both light and elegant.

5. **Mini Caprese Skewers**
For a healthier choice, skewer cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella balls onto toothpicks. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an explosion of flavor.

6. **Chocolate Fondue**
Conclude the evening with a sugary delight through chocolate fondue. Melt dark chocolate and offer an assortment of fruits, marshmallows, and pound cake cubes for dipping.

7. **Spicy Roasted Chickpeas**
For a crunchy and nutritious snack, roast chickpeas in olive oil, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. These crunchy bites are perfect for nibbling throughout the night.

8. **Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus**
Envelop tender asparagus spears with thin slices of prosciutto and roast until they are crispy. This savory delicacy is both classy and delicious.

9. **Guacamole and Salsa Bar**
Create a DIY guacamole and salsa station with tortilla chips. Provide a variety of toppings like diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and cilantro for guests to personalize their dips.

10. **Sparkling Mocktails**
Don’t overlook the beverages! Craft a range of sparkling mocktails using fruit juices, soda water, and fresh fruit garnishes. Experiment with pairings like cranberry-lime or pomegranate-orange.

These delectable delights are sure to satisfy everyone and make your New Year’s Eve celebration truly memorable. Enjoy the festivities and have a wonderful New Year!