Crockpot Sesame Chicken

This Crockpot Sesame Chicken is the perfect combination of convenience and deliciousness. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing the flavors to develop into a rich, savory-sweet glaze that coats every piece of tender, shredded chicken. The sesame oil, garlic, and ginger create an aromatic profile that pairs beautifully with fluffy rice or steamed vegetables. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it also offers a healthier alternative to traditional takeout sesame chicken. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, it provides all the bold flavors you love without unnecessary additives. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish, this slow-cooked sesame chicken will quickly become a go-to favorite!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium)

• 1/4 cup honey

• 2 tablespoons sesame oil

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1/4 cup ketchup

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

• 3 green onions, sliced

• Cooked white or brown rice, for serving

Directions:

1. Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot.

2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and ketchup.

3. Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.

4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender.

5. Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks.

6. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce in the crockpot.

7. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot, stirring to coat in the thickened sauce.

8. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce is glossy and slightly thickened.

9. Serve over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal per serving | Servings: 4

Introduction to Crockpot Sesame Chicken

Crockpot Sesame Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make dish inspired by classic Chinese takeout flavors. This slow-cooked version offers a healthier and more convenient alternative to restaurant-style sesame chicken, without compromising on taste. The combination of tender chicken, a sweet-savory sesame sauce, and a rich umami profile makes this dish a favorite among families and busy individuals alike. Cooking this dish in a crockpot (slow cooker) allows the flavors to deepen, resulting in juicy, flavorful chicken that practically melts in your mouth. Unlike deep-fried sesame chicken found in restaurants, this version is much lighter and lower in calories, making it a healthier choice for those who want a nutritious yet satisfying meal.

The History of Sesame Chicken

Sesame chicken is a popular dish in Chinese-American cuisine, often found in takeout restaurants and buffets across the United States. While it shares similarities with General Tso’s Chicken and Orange Chicken, sesame chicken is unique due to its nutty sesame flavor and slightly sweet glaze. Traditional Chinese dishes often use sesame oil and sesame seeds as flavor enhancers, as they add richness and depth to the meal. While the original version of this dish may have originated in Chinese kitchens, the American adaptation transformed it into a sweeter, stickier version. By making this dish in a crockpot, you can achieve the same delicious flavors without deep-frying or excessive oil, making it a healthier and more practical option for everyday cooking.

Why This Recipe is the Best

There are countless reasons why this Crockpot Sesame Chicken stands out. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

Effortless Cooking

• One of the best things about this recipe is the convenience of set-it-and-forget-it cooking. With just a few minutes of prep, you can let the slow cooker handle the rest. There’s no need to constantly monitor the stove, making it perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even entertaining guests.

Healthier Alternative to Takeout

• Unlike restaurant-style sesame chicken, which is typically deep-fried and coated in a heavy sauce, this slow-cooked version is lower in fat and calories. Using simple, wholesome ingredients, you can enjoy all the bold flavors without unhealthy additives.

Incredibly Flavorful

• The combination of soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil creates an irresistible sauce that coats every bite of chicken. The slow-cooking process enhances the flavors, making the dish even more delicious than traditional stovetop methods.

Versatile and Customizable

• This recipe is highly adaptable. You can use chicken breast or thighs, adjust the sweetness, or make it gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. It can also be served over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables, allowing for endless variations.

Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved

• Kids and adults alike love this dish because of its mild, slightly sweet flavor. If you have picky eaters at home, this is a great way to introduce them to Asian-inspired flavors in a dish that’s both comforting and familiar.

Ingredients and Their Benefits

Chicken Thighs

• Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures the meat stays tender and juicy during slow cooking. Chicken thighs have more natural fat than chicken breasts, making them perfect for a slow cooker recipe.

Soy Sauce (Low Sodium)

• Soy sauce provides the dish with its deep umami flavor. Opting for a low-sodium version helps reduce excess salt intake while maintaining the savory taste.

Honey

• Instead of processed sugar, honey is used to add natural sweetness. It also helps to balance the saltiness of the soy sauce and enhances the caramelization of the sauce.

Sesame Oil

• A small amount of sesame oil adds a rich, nutty aroma to the dish. Since sesame oil has a strong flavor, a little goes a long way in enhancing the dish.

Garlic & Ginger

• Both garlic and ginger are key ingredients in Asian cooking. They add depth to the sauce and bring antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Rice Vinegar

• A little acidity from rice vinegar balances out the sweetness and saltiness, giving the sauce a well-rounded flavor.

Cornstarch Slurry

• Adding a mixture of cornstarch and water at the end helps to thicken the sauce, giving it the glossy, sticky texture typical of sesame chicken.

Sesame Seeds & Green Onions

• Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch, while green onions bring a fresh, mildly spicy contrast to the sweet and savory sauce.

How to Serve Crockpot Sesame Chicken

This dish pairs well with many sides, making it a versatile meal for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Over Rice: Serve the sesame chicken over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
• With Noodles: Toss the shredded chicken with lo mein, rice noodles, or soba noodles for an Asian-inspired noodle bowl.
• With Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy to add extra nutrition and color to the dish.
• In Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, wrap the chicken in lettuce leaves and top with extra sesame seeds and green onions.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

This Crockpot Sesame Chicken is great for meal prep because it stores well and tastes even better the next day.

How to Store:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Reheat:

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Common Questions About This Recipe

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?

• Yes! Chicken breasts can be used, but they may be slightly drier than thighs. To prevent overcooking, reduce the cooking time by about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

• Absolutely! Swap out the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos, and ensure the cornstarch is labeled gluten-free.

Can I Cook This on the Stovetop Instead?

• Yes! If you’re short on time, cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, then add the sauce and simmer until thickened.

How Can I Make It Spicier?

• If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes, Sriracha, or a drizzle of chili oil before serving.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Sesame Chicken is the ultimate easy, flavorful, and healthier alternative to takeout. With minimal effort and just a handful of pantry ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, feeding a family, or simply craving a comforting Asian-inspired dish, this recipe is a must-try. Try it today and see why it has become a go-to favorite for so many home cooks!