I recently found myself standing in my kitchen, overwhelmed by the daunting task of preparing dinner after a long day. In that moment of desperation, I discovered my secret weapon: the Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken Recipe. This delightful dish combines succulent chicken thighs with a savory-sweet sesame sauce that simmered to perfection without demanding hours of my time. It’s a comforting go-to for anyone craving Asian-inspired flavors while keeping dinner low-stress. Not only does this gluten-free recipe come together with minimal hands-on effort, but it’s also incredibly versatile—perfect for adapting to various dietary preferences. Curious to see how a few simple ingredients can transform into a restaurant-worthy meal? Let’s dive in!

Why is this chicken recipe a winner?

Simplicity and Convenience: This Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken recipe is a true time-saver, allowing you to toss everything into your slow cooker for a hands-off cooking experience.

Rich, Irresistible Flavor: The combination of savory soy sauce and sweet honey creates a tantalizing sauce that perfectly complements tender chicken, ensuring each bite bursts with taste.

Versatile Options: Want to switch things up? Feel free to serve it in lettuce wraps for a fresh twist or over rice or noodles for a hearty meal.

Diet-Friendly: This gluten-free dish easily adapts to meet various dietary needs, making it perfect for families with different preferences.

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings, everyone will love the familiar Asian-inspired flavors, making it a hit at the dinner table!

Looking for more fabulous chicken recipes? Check out my Crockpot Chicken Fajitas or Crockpot Buffalo Chicken for delicious options!

Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken Ingredients

For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – Provides umami and saltiness; substitute low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Honey/Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the saltiness; adjust based on taste preferences.
• Sesame Oil – Infuses a distinct nutty flavor; use toasted sesame oil for a more intense taste.
• Rice Vinegar – Brightens the dish with acidity; white vinegar can serve as an alternative.
• Garlic – Enhances flavor; freshly minced garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• Ginger – Contributes warmth and spice; fresh ginger is ideal, though ground ginger may be substituted if needed.

For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – The star of the dish, known for their tenderness; chicken breasts can be used but might turn out less juicy.

For Thickening
• Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce for a rich mouthfeel; arrowroot powder is a gluten-free substitute.
• Water – Mixed with cornstarch to create a slurry that helps thicken the sauce.

Ready to create this Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken Recipe? Let’s gather these ingredients and get cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of soy sauce, ¼ cup of honey or brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of sesame oil, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger until well combined. This flavorful sauce will be the secret to your Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken, adding a savory-sweet profile to tender chicken thighs as they cook.

Step 2: Assemble in the Crock Pot
Place 2 to 3 pounds of chicken thighs at the bottom of your 6-quart crock pot. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring they are well coated. This combination allows the chicken to soak up all that delicious flavor. At this point, plug in your crock pot and get ready for the magic to happen.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Securely lock the lid on your crock pot and set it to cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. As it cooks, the chicken will become incredibly tender, absorbing the rich sesame sauce. Check for doneness by ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
About 30 minutes before serving, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with ¼ cup of water to create a slurry. Open the lid of the crock pot and stir the slurry into the cooking chicken and sauce. This will help thicken the sauce, giving it a luscious, velvety texture that clings to each piece of chicken, enhancing your Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken experience.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once the sauce has thickened, turn off the heat and prepare to serve. Ladle the tender chicken and thickened sauce over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles. For an extra pop of flavor and texture, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions. Your Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken is now ready to be enjoyed!

What to Serve with Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this scrumptious dish with delightful sides that complement its rich flavors.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The light, aromatic grains soak up the savory sauce perfectly, making every bite a burst of flavor and comfort.
Stir-Fried Bok Choy: With a mild crunch and slight bitterness, this vegetable adds a refreshing contrast while keeping the meal healthy and vibrant.
Sesame Spinach Salad: Fresh spinach drizzled with sesame dressing not only complements the main dish but also adds a crispness that balances the richness of the chicken.
Honey Garlic Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring a touch of sweetness to your plate, harmonizing beautifully with the sesame’s complexity.
Crispy Egg Rolls: These add a satisfying crunch and are perfect for dipping in soy sauce, enhancing the Asian-inspired vibe of the meal.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: A refreshing dish that cuts through the richness, with a tart vinegar dressing that brightens the entire meal.
Cold Sake or Green Tea: For drinks, a glass of chilled sake or a warm cup of green tea pairs beautifully, enhancing the dish’s flavors while offering a soothing element.
Chocolate Mousse: Finish with a light dessert! Its rich creaminess contrasts the meal, leaving a luxurious final note on your palate.

Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken Variations

Feel free to customize this dish to suit your taste or dietary preferences, creating a meal that’s perfect for you and your family.

Gluten-Free: Use tamari in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free option without sacrificing flavor. This small tweak makes it accessible for everyone at the table.
Low-Sugar: Switch out honey for a low-carb sweetener like stevia or erythritol to keep the sweetness while cutting sugar. You’ll enjoy all the flavor without the extra calories!
Vegetable-Packed: Toss in some bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and texture. Watch as the vibrant colors brighten up your dish while adding healthy crunch.
Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of sriracha to the sauce. This gives your Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken a delightful twist that spice lovers will adore!
Quick Cook: If you’re short on time, swap chicken thighs for boneless chicken breasts and reduce the cooking time to 2 to 3 hours. Just remember to check for tenderness—this dish should melt in your mouth!
Flavor Boost: Drizzle a little extra toasted sesame oil over the finished dish for an added nutty aroma and a flavor enhancement that takes it to another level.
Serving Styles: Serve in lettuce wraps for a lighter meal, or spoon over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb take that’s equally satisfying. Each option allows you to experience this dish in a new way!

If you’re looking for more delicious chicken recipes, don’t miss my Crockpot Ranch Bacon or General Tsos Chicken to keep your cooking adventures exciting!

Make Ahead Options

This Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken is a fantastic choice for busy cooks looking to streamline their meal preparation! You can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken (up to 24 hours ahead) by whisking together the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This simple step ensures all the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to cook, just place the marinated chicken in the crock pot, pour the sauce over, and follow the regular cooking instructions. To maintain quality, keep the chicken well-coated in the sauce, and you’ll have a delicious, stress-free dinner that tastes just as good as fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors intensify as they rest, making it even more delicious!

Freezer: This dish freezes well; portion into airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture.

Refrigeration: If you prepped the sauce beforehand, keep it separate from the chicken in the fridge for freshness, then combine before cooking.

Expert Tips for Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken

Chicken Selection: Choose chicken thighs for maximum tenderness. If using chicken breasts, consider reducing cooking time to avoid dryness.
Flavor Balance: Taste the sauce before adding it to the chicken. Adjust sweetness with honey or brown sugar to achieve your preferred flavor profile.
Thickening Method: For a velvety sauce, remember to mix the cornstarch with water thoroughly before adding it to the crock pot. This ensures a smooth texture for your Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken.
Vegetable Integration: Add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas in the last hour of cooking to incorporate nutrition and color without overcooking them.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within three days, but note that flavors will deepen over time, making it even more delicious!

Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken thighs, look for ones with a nice, pink color and minimal dark spots. You want thighs that feel firm to the touch and are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.

How should I store leftovers of Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. As an added bonus, the flavors of the dish continue to meld and improve while resting, making day two even tastier!

Can I freeze Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken?
Very much so! To freeze, portion the chicken and sauce into airtight containers, ensuring there’s some sauce in each portion to keep the chicken moist. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What if my sauce is too thin after cooking?
Not to worry! If you find the sauce a bit thinner than you’d like, you can thicken it after cooking. Just mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with some cold water to form a slurry, then stir it into the sauce while simmering on the stove for a few minutes until it thickens up beautifully.

Is this recipe suitable for various dietary needs?
Yes! The Easy Crock Pot Sesame Chicken is gluten-free if you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce, and it’s customizable for different diets. You can swap chicken thighs for skinless chicken breasts or even pork, and serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it in lettuce wraps! Just be sure to check ingredient labels for any specific dietary restrictions.

Can my pets share in the leftovers?
While it’s tempting to share, it’s best to serve plain, cooked chicken to your furry friends without the sauce. The soy sauce and honey can be harmful to pets, so keep the flavored dish just for yourself!