When the week starts to wind down, my Crockpot becomes my best friend, and one dish that consistently makes a glorious appearance is my Crockpot Sesame Chicken. Just imagine the rich aroma of soy sauce mingling with sweet honey and the zesty brightness of garlic and ginger wafting through your kitchen—it’s a warm embrace for the senses.
This dish isn’t just another weeknight meal; it’s a symphony of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors that transforms humble chicken thighs into tender bites of pure bliss. Perfect over a fluffy bed of rice or tucked into crisp lettuce wraps, it easily pleases the whole family while skipping the fast food drive-thru. Trust me, once you experience the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of this dish, you’ll be wondering how you ever managed without it. Grab your slow cooker and let’s dive into a cooking adventure that packs flair and flavor into every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Sesame Chicken?
Effortless Cooking: Simply toss all ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic, making weeknight meals stress-free.
Rich, Flavorful Sauce: The delightful fusion of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger creates a mouthwatering sauce that your taste buds will adore.
Versatile Meal: Serve over rice or in lettuce wraps, adapting easily to different occasions or personal preferences.
Healthy Comfort Food: Low-carb and high-protein options mean you can indulge without guilt, making it perfect for various dietary needs.
Family Favorite: With its irresistible aroma and taste, this dish brings the whole family to the table and makes them forget about takeout!
Crockpot Sesame Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs/Breasts – This is the main protein source and remains tender during slow cooking; feel free to swap with chicken breast if you prefer.
For the Sauce
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Provides that umami flavor essential for the dish; use tamari to make this Crockpot Sesame Chicken gluten-free.
• Honey – Adds the perfect sweet balance to the savory elements; agave syrup works as a great substitute if needed.
• Tomato Paste – This deepens the richness of the sauce; can be omitted if you want a sweeter profile.
• Rice Wine Vinegar – Contributes a bright acidity; apple cider vinegar is a suitable alternative.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic is best for that aromatic punch; use garlic powder in a pinch if needed.
• Ginger – Grated fresh ginger gives warmth and spice; it’s a must for that authentic flavor.
• Sesame Oil – Imparts a nutty essence crucial to this recipe; you can switch to olive oil for a different flair.
• Sriracha – Adds a kick of heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
• Cornstarch – Used to thicken the luscious sauce; you can swap with flour if necessary.
• Water – Helps adjust the sauce consistency for perfect cohesion; don’t skip this as it’s vital for cooking.
For Serving
• Sesame Seeds – These add delightful texture and nuttiness as a garnish; sprinkle generously!
• Scallions – Freshly chopped scallions enhance the dish visually and add a lovely herbal note.
Dive into this journey of flavors and make your next dinner truly special with this easy-to-follow recipe!
How to Make Crockpot Sesame Chicken
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Prepare the Chicken: Place your boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts in the slow cooker, then season them with a sprinkle of black pepper to elevate the flavor.
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Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together low-sodium soy sauce, honey, tomato paste, rice wine vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and sriracha with 1 tablespoon of water. Pour this delightful mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
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Cook the Chicken: Set your slow cooker to LOW and let it work its magic for about 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and easily shreds apart.
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Shred and Set Aside: Carefully remove the chicken from the cooker, leaving the flavorful sauce behind. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
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Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in ¼ cup of water. Add this mixture to the sauce in the slow cooker, stirring to combine thoroughly.
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Simmer for Thickness: Switch the slow cooker to HIGH and allow the sauce to simmer for 15-20 minutes or until it thickens to a luscious consistency.
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Combine and Serve: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing it into the thickened sauce. Serve it over a fluffy bed of rice, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions for a colorful finish.
Optional: Serve in crisp lettuce wraps for a fresh, light option!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for the Best Crockpot Sesame Chicken
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Choose Thighs for Juiciness: Always opt for boneless skinless chicken thighs for a tender, juicy texture. They stand up beautifully to slow cooking without drying out.
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Timing is Key: Monitor cooking time closely. For optimal tenderness, check the chicken around 3 hours into cooking to avoid overcooking.
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Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of sriracha. Conversely, add extra for more heat, ensuring the balance of flavors remains intact.
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Thicken Like a Pro: To achieve a perfectly thick sauce, make sure to dissolve the cornstarch in water well before adding it to the sauce. Mix thoroughly to avoid lumps.
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Opt for Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic and ginger enhances the dish significantly, providing a more vibrant and aromatic flavor compared to dried options.
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Sesame Chicken preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in the sauce (soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil) up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. Additionally, you can pre-shred the chicken and prepare the thickening cornstarch mixture up to 3 days ahead, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply cook the marinated chicken on LOW for 3-4 hours, thicken the sauce, and toss everything together. This way, you’ll skip the stress of last-minute cooking while still savoring the deliciousness of homemade Crockpot Sesame Chicken!
Crockpot Sesame Chicken Variations
Explore delightful twists on this classic dish to suit your palate and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of low-sodium soy sauce to ensure a gluten-free version that’s still packed with flavor.
- Vegan-Friendly: Swap honey for maple syrup, and replace chicken with cubed tofu or chickpeas for a delicious plant-based alternative.
- Add More Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas before cooking for a colorful, nutrient-packed addition; they’ll blend beautifully with the sauce.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a lower-carb meal that doesn’t skimp on satisfaction.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of sriracha to amp up the heat or add sliced jalapeños for a fresh, fiery touch that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Crispy Texture: After cooking, crisp the chicken in a hot skillet or an air fryer with a drizzle of oil to add a delightful crunch.
- Citrus Zing: Incorporate a splash of orange juice and zest into the sauce for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens each bite.
- Flavorful Garnishes: Experiment with toppings like toasted coconut or crushed peanuts for an unexpected crunch and added layers of flavor.
With these variations, your Crockpot Sesame Chicken can continuously excite and satisfy your family’s cravings!
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Sesame Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze Crockpot Sesame Chicken in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating: Gently reheat the chicken on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot throughout. Add a bit of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Meal Prep: For quick meals, consider portioning out the chicken into single servings before freezing, perfect for easy lunches or dinners later on!
What to Serve with Crockpot Sesame Chicken?
Transform your beautiful Crockpot Sesame Chicken into a complete family meal that excites the palate and warms the heart.
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: This aromatic rice absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, making each bite delightful and satisfying. The perfect canvas for drenching in that rich sauce!
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: Brightly colored veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas add a satisfying crunch and fresh flavor, balancing the dish’s richness. Toss them in sesame oil for an added touch of flavor.
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Garlic Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed with garlic, these vibrant beans provide a fresh and snappy contrast to the tender chicken. It’s a simple side that brings additional texture to your plate.
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Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing cucumber salad with rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, and sesame seeds complements the dish with its crispness and bright flavor. It cleanses the palate beautifully between bites.
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Sesame Noodles: Serve these savory noodles tossed in sesame oil, soy sauce, and scallions as a delightful base or side. Their flavor combines perfectly with the chicken, creating a cohesive meal.
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Chilled Sake: A glass of chilled sake enhances the meal experience with its subtle flavors that pair wonderfully with the sweet and savory notes of the chicken. It’s an enjoyable beverage choice for this Asian-inspired feast.
Crockpot Sesame Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Crockpot Sesame Chicken?
I always recommend using boneless skinless chicken thighs for their tender and juicy texture. They’re perfect for the slow cooker, allowing them to absorb all those delicious flavors. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breasts can be used, but keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent them from drying out!
How should I store leftovers of Crockpot Sesame Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, a little splash of water can help keep the chicken moist and flavorful—no one wants dry, bland leftovers!
Can I freeze Crockpot Sesame Chicken?
Absolutely! In fact, freezing this delicious dish is a great way to keep it for later. Just place it in a sealed freezer-safe container and it will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating—this helps maintain the best texture and flavor.
What if my sauce doesn’t thicken properly?
If your sauce isn’t thickening as you’d like, make sure to dissolve the cornstarch thoroughly in water before adding it to the pot. Also, give it ample time to cook on HIGH for 15-20 minutes. If you’re still finding it too thin, mix another tablespoon of cornstarch with water and repeat the process until your desired thickness is achieved.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, this Crockpot Sesame Chicken can be easily adapted for different dietary needs! For a gluten-free option, just swap out the regular soy sauce for tamari. If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, you can replace chicken with tofu or seitan and use maple syrup instead of honey. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they align with your specific dietary requirements.
What if I want to add vegetables to the chicken?
Very! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli during the last hour of cooking. This not only increases the nutrition value but also adds beautiful colors to your dish. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and absorb the sauce’s rich flavors.
Crockpot Sesame Chicken: Effortless Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Chicken: Place your boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts in the slow cooker, then season them with a sprinkle of black pepper to elevate the flavor.
- Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together low-sodium soy sauce, honey, tomato paste, rice wine vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and sriracha with 1 tablespoon of water. Pour mixture over the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Set your slow cooker to LOW for about 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Shred and Set Aside: Remove chicken from cooker; shred into bite-sized pieces with two forks.
- Thicken the Sauce: Dissolve cornstarch in 1/4 cup water; add to the sauce in slow cooker and stir.
- Simmer for Thickness: Switch to HIGH and let sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes until thickened.
- Combine and Serve: Return shredded chicken to sauce and mix well. Serve over rice, garnished with sesame seeds and scallions.