Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken Recipe to Try

If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, then this Crock Pot Sesame Chicken recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender, juicy chicken slowly cooked to perfection, immersed in a savory-sweet sauce that carries the perfect touch of sesame goodness. It’s the ideal meal for busy weeknights when you want something homey but fuss-free. Ready in just a few hours and packed with delicious textures and flavors, this recipe combines classic Asian-inspired tastes with the ease of slow cooking, making dinner a worry-free delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just toss ingredients into the crock pot and let it work its magic while you relax or take care of other tasks.
• Rich, Balanced Flavor: The perfect mix of sweet, salty, and nutty sesame flavors that satisfy any craving.
• Tender, Juicy Chicken: Slow cooking makes the chicken succulent and melts in your mouth.
• Perfect for Busy Weeknights: Minimal prep with maximum flavor and texture, fitting perfectly into your hectic schedule.
• Family Friendly: A dish that both kids and adults will love, easy to serve with a variety of sides.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a harmonious blend of taste and texture. Each ingredient plays its role in building that signature Crock Pot Sesame Chicken flavor you’ll adore.

• Chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, they stay moist throughout slow cooking.
• Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami depth that is essential for this dish.
• Honey or brown sugar: Brings the perfect touch of natural sweetness to balance the salty notes.
• Garlic and ginger: Fresh or powdered, these aromatics provide warmth and a subtle zest.
• Sesame oil: Imparts the unmistakable nutty flavor that defines sesame dishes.
• Rice vinegar: Adds a mild tang that brightens the sauce beautifully.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce to a glossy, sticky finish.
• Sesame seeds: For toasting and sprinkling, offering a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
• Green onions: Garnish that refreshes the dish and adds a pop of color.

Variations for Crock Pot Sesame Chicken

One of the best parts about this Crock Pot Sesame Chicken recipe is its versatility. Feel free to tweak the ingredients or add extras to suit your preferences, dietary needs, or just to shake things up a little.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of Sriracha for a fiery twist.
• Vegetable Boost: Toss in broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Low Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce added salt to keep it heart-healthy.
• Gluten-Free Swap: Substitute tamari for soy sauce to make this recipe gluten free.
• Protein Alternatives: Try using boneless chicken breasts or tofu for a leaner or vegetarian-friendly version.

How to Make Crock Pot Sesame Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger to create a flavorful sauce base that will coat the chicken beautifully.

Step 2: Add Chicken to Crock Pot

Place chicken thighs in the bottom of the crock pot, arranging them evenly for consistent cooking.

Step 3: Pour Sauce Over Chicken

Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken to ensure every piece gets infused with flavor.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Lock the lid and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and soak up those delicious sauce notes.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the crock pot to thicken the sauce to a luscious consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions on top before serving to add crunch and brightness.

Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Sesame Chicken

• Use bone-in thighs: They add extra flavor and stay moist during slow cooking.
• Don’t skip thickening: Thickening the sauce enhances the texture and helps it cling to the chicken beautifully.
• Toast sesame seeds: Lightly toasting intensifies their nuttiness and aroma.
• Prepare rice in advance: So your meal comes together quickly when dinner time rolls around.
• Adjust sweetness early: Taste the sauce before slow cooking and tweak honey or sugar amounts for your preferred balance.

How to Serve Crock Pot Sesame Chicken

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds and finely sliced green onions offers a delightful crunch and fresh finish that elevates the dish both visually and in flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with fluffy steamed rice, fried rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. For extra veggies, serve alongside stir-fried bok choy or roasted broccoli.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Crock Pot Sesame Chicken in lettuce wraps or over noodles to mix up textures and presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Crock Pot Sesame Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next meal even tastier.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to batch cook. Portion it out, freeze in airtight containers, and thaw thoroughly in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce and keep the chicken moist.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but cooking time may be shorter, and the texture might be less juicy compared to thighs.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply swap soy sauce for tamari or another gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Use the sauté function to brown the chicken first, then cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes with natural pressure release.

How do I prevent the sauce from being too salty?

Use low-sodium soy sauce and balance with more honey or vinegar to suit your taste.

What’s the best way to get a sticky, caramelized finish?

After slow cooking, you can transfer the chicken and sauce to a hot skillet to reduce the sauce further and create a yummy caramelized glaze.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Sesame Chicken is a one-pot wonder that brings unbeatable flavor and hands-off convenience together in the best way. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will quickly become a go-to thanks to its simplicity and crowd-pleasing taste. Give it a try—you’ll be smiling at the dinner table and savoring every bite.

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