Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken

Name: Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 600g); 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tbsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening); Sesame seeds for garnish

Published: October 16, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken

This incredible Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; they add that zing that makes everything better.

For the Sauce:

Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
Brown Sugar: This sweetener balances out the saltiness and gives the sauce its delightful thickness.
Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way; this oil brings an unmistakable nutty aroma that’s simply addictive.
Rice Vinegar: Adds acidity which brightens up all those rich flavors—don’t skip it!
Sesame Seeds: For topping! They add crunch and make your dish look fancy without any extra effort.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken:

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and soak up all those delicious flavors.

Step 2: Mix Up The Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic (minced!), ginger (if you’re feeling adventurous), and rice vinegar until well combined. Your kitchen should start smelling like an Asian bistro already!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Place your chicken in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it like you’re giving your chicken a luxurious spa day. Make sure all pieces are covered; we want them feeling pampered!

Step 4: Set It and Forget It

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 6 hours or high for about 3 hours. Go binge-watch your favorite show or take a nap—this is your time!

Step 5: Thicken The Sauce

Once cooked, if you want to thicken up that glorious sauce (and who doesn’t?), remove some liquid from the slow cooker and mix it with cornstarch in a small bowl until smooth. Then stir it back into the slow cooker and let it cook on high for an additional 15 minutes.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your sesame chicken onto plates over fluffy rice or steamed vegetables, drizzle with extra sauce if desired, then sprinkle generously with sesame seeds. Voilà! You’ve got yourself an incredible meal ready to impress.

Don’t forget to snap some photos before diving in—you’ll want proof of your culinary triumph!

You Must Know About Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken

This showstopping Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the ultimate Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken, start by searing the chicken to lock in those juices. While it’s sizzling away, prepare your sauce and chop your veggies to keep everything flowing smoothly.

Flavor Your Way

Don’t be afraid to get creative! Swap out soy sauce for coconut aminos for a gluten-free version or toss in some broccoli for added crunch. Adjust the sweetness with honey or maple syrup based on your taste buds.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or use a microwave until hot throughout.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken

This professional-quality Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

One time, I whipped up this Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken for a family gathering, and you could hear forks hitting plates like tiny applause. Everyone raved about it; my aunt even asked if I’d consider starting a side hustle as a chef!

FAQs

What is Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken?

Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a rich and tangy sesame sauce. This recipe takes advantage of slow cooking to infuse the chicken with robust flavors while keeping it moist and juicy. It typically features ingredients like soy sauce, honey, garlic, and sesame oil, all working together to create a delightful meal. Ideal for busy weeknights, this dish can be served over rice or noodles, making it both satisfying and versatile.

How can I customize my Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken?

Customizing your Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken is simple and fun. You can add vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color. For those who enjoy heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or Sriracha to spice things up. Additionally, you can substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version or use different proteins like pork or beef if preferred. Experimenting with different toppings like sesame seeds or chopped green onions can also enhance the dish’s presentation.

Can I prepare Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can easily prepare Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken ahead of time. You can marinate the chicken in the sauce the night before and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. On cooking day, simply transfer everything to your slow cooker and set it on low for several hours. This method not only saves time but also intensifies the flavor profile of your meal.

What are some side dishes that pair well with Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken?

Pairing side dishes with Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken enhances your dining experience. Steamed jasmine rice or brown rice makes an excellent base for soaking up the delicious sauce. You might also consider serving it alongside stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad with a light vinaigrette for balance. Another great option is egg noodles tossed in sesame oil; their texture complements the chicken perfectly while adding an Asian flair to your meal.

Conclusion

In summary, Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a quick yet flavorful meal option. With its tender chicken and rich sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. By customizing it with various ingredients and sides, you can make each serving unique. Whether you prepare it ahead of time or experiment with new flavors, you’ll find that Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken satisfies every palate!