crockpot sesame chicken recipe
The Best crockpot sesame chicken recipe
I’ve been making this crockpot sesame chicken recipe for years, and it’s become one of my go-to dishes—both for quick weeknight meals and special occasions. There’s something about the way the flavors meld together in the slow cooker that makes it feel special, even if it’s just sitting on the counter while I get the kids ready for school. My kids adore it because it’s not only tasty but also easy to eat with their fingers, and the sticky, savory notes from the sesame and soy sauce always make them ask for seconds. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but isn’t heavy, which is perfect when I’m feeding a family of five without feeling guilty about the portions.
This recipe is also one of those things that works for so many different situations. It’s great for meal prepping—just make a big batch on Sunday and reheat it for lunches or leftovers throughout the week. It’s hearty enough to hold up on a plate with steamed rice or noodles, but it’s also light enough to pair with a simple green salad if you’re feeling fancy. Plus, the sesame chicken is packed with protein and healthy fats from the sesame seeds and oil, which makes it a balanced choice for anyone watching their intake without sacrificing flavor. It’s that kind of recipe that feels like a treat but still nourishes you, and honestly, that’s what I love most about it.
Crockpot Sesame Chicken
A flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken marinated in a savory sesame sauce, slow-cooked in the crockpot for perfect results every time. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sriracha (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (optional)
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a bowl, combine chicken thighs, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Mix well and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
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2 In a separate bowl, mix chicken broth, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and sriracha (if using). Pour this sauce into the crockpot.
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3 Place the marinated chicken thighs on top of the sauce in the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 3 hours or high for 2 hours, until chicken is tender.
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4 Once done, remove chicken and shred it using tongs or a fork. Stir the shredded chicken back into the sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and sliced almonds (if using).
🔧Equipment
- Crockpot
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Food processor or mortar and pestle (for ginger)
- Tongs or spatula
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Crockpot Sesame Chicken Works
This crockpot sesame chicken is always a crowd-pleaser because it’s simple enough to make ahead without losing flavor, yet rich and flavorful enough to feel special any time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hands-off meal that still feels like a home-cooked dinner, and it’s even better when you’re hosting family gatherings—no one has to worry about last-minute cleanup or last-minute stress. The sticky, savory notes from the sesame glaze make it satisfying, while the tender chicken stays juicy, so it’s always a reliable choice for both weekdays and celebrations.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Sesame Chicken
What is the best way to prepare crockpot sesame chicken for optimal texture and flavor?
The best way to prepare crockpot sesame chicken is to first marinate the chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey or brown sugar. Place the chicken in the crockpot, add a cup of chicken broth or water, and then pour the marinade over the chicken. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. For extra crispiness, you can lightly toast the chicken pieces before adding them to the crockpot.
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Can I use different types of chicken for this recipe, and if so, which ones work best?
Yes, you can use different types of chicken, but some work better than others for crockpot recipes due to their tenderness. Thighs, drumsticks, and boneless, skinless breasts are ideal because they stay moist and flavorful. Avoid using very lean cuts like wings, which can dry out easily. If you prefer, you can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
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What are the essential ingredients I should have on hand for making this crockpot sesame chicken?
To make this crockpot sesame chicken, ensure you have the following key ingredients: – Chicken (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts) – Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) – Sesame oil – Garlic and ginger (fresh or minced) – Honey or brown sugar – Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar – Red bell pepper, green onion, and sesame seeds (for garnish) – Optional: Green onions, garlic powder, black pepper, and a splash of coconut aminos for extra depth.
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How do I adjust the cooking time if I’m using a different size or type of chicken?
Cooking times can vary based on the size and type of chicken. For larger pieces like whole thighs or drumsticks, increase the time slightly: – Low setting: 7-9 hours – High setting: 4-5 hours
For smaller pieces like boneless breasts, you can reduce the time: – Low setting: 5-6 hours – High setting: 2.5-3.5 hours
Always check the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure it’s tender and not overcooking. If you’re unsure, slightly undercooking is better than overcooking chicken.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?
Yes, you can prepare the crockpot sesame chicken ahead of time and reheat it later. Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, transfer the chicken to the crockpot with a bit of water or broth, and cook on low for 1-2 hours or high for 30-45 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. For best results, add a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil when reheating to enhance the flavor.
