### **Introduction**
Crock Pot Sesame Chicken is a rich and savory dish that takes the classic flavors of sesame chicken and transforms them into an easy, hands-off meal using a slow cooker. This simple recipe combines tender chicken with a sweet and savory sesame sauce, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights. The slow cooking process ensures the chicken becomes juicy and flavorful, all while you focus on other tasks. Whether served over rice or with vegetables, Crock Pot Sesame Chicken is a comforting and delicious meal everyone will enjoy.
### **Origin**
Sesame chicken is a popular dish in Chinese-American cuisine, typically featuring crispy chicken coated in a sweet sauce made from soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey. While the dish originates from Chinese culinary traditions, the American version was adapted with sweeter and thicker sauces to suit local tastes. The Crock Pot version of sesame chicken makes the dish even more accessible, relying on the slow cooking method to create tender chicken and a flavorful sauce without the need for deep-frying.
### **Cultural Significance**
In Chinese-American food culture, sesame chicken is a beloved dish often found at Chinese restaurants, particularly in North America. The sesame seeds used in the dish are not only flavorful but have symbolic significance in many Asian cultures, where sesame seeds are believed to bring good health and vitality. The Crock Pot adaptation is a modern take on traditional home-cooked comfort food, making it easy to prepare and enjoy without sacrificing flavor. It reflects the trend of using slow cookers to simplify cooking while still creating delicious and hearty meals.
### **Ingredients & Quantities**
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening)
– 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
– 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
– 2-3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
– Cooked rice (for serving)
### **Optional Additions**
– Red pepper flakes or chili paste for a spicy kick
– Vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for extra nutrition
– A drizzle of hoisin sauce for added depth of flavor
– Crushed cashews or peanuts for texture and crunch
– Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
### **Tips for Success**
1. **Choose Chicken Thighs**: Chicken thighs are more forgiving in the slow cooker, staying moist and tender. However, chicken breasts can also be used if preferred, though they may dry out more easily.
2. **Adjust the Sauce**: If you prefer a sweeter or saltier sauce, adjust the ratio of honey to soy sauce. You can also add more sesame oil for a stronger sesame flavor.
3. **Thicken the Sauce**: To achieve a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a bit of water to form a slurry, and add it toward the end of cooking.
4. **Don’t Overcook the Chicken**: Chicken cooked too long can dry out, so check for doneness after 4 hours on low. If you are cooking for longer, make sure to check periodically.
5. **Serve with Rice**: Pair the dish with steamed white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal. Add stir-fried vegetables for more texture and flavor.
### **Instructions**
1. **Prepare the Chicken**: Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the bottom of your Crock Pot. If using chicken breasts, you can cut them into pieces to ensure even cooking.
2. **Mix the Sauce**: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and chicken broth.
3. **Pour the Sauce**: Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated.
4. **Cook**: Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
5. **Thicken the Sauce**: About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce to thicken it. Allow it to cook for another 30 minutes on low.
6. **Shred the Chicken**: Once the chicken is tender, shred it using two forks and stir it into the sauce to absorb the flavors.
7. **Serve**: Serve the sesame chicken over rice and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
### **Description**
Crock Pot Sesame Chicken offers a delicious combination of tender, juicy chicken and a savory-sweet sesame sauce. The slow cooker makes the chicken fall-apart tender while the sauce thickens to a rich, sticky consistency. The toasted sesame seeds and green onions add a nice crunch and freshness to the dish, making it a well-rounded and flavorful meal. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy restaurant-quality sesame chicken at home without the need for deep frying or complicated preparation.
### **Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)**
– **Calories**: 330 kcal
– **Fat**: 17g
– **Saturated Fat**: 3g
– **Cholesterol**: 105mg
– **Sodium**: 800mg
– **Carbohydrates**: 21g
– **Fiber**: 1g
– **Sugar**: 17g
– **Protein**: 28g
(Note: Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
### **Conclusion**
Crock Pot Sesame Chicken is a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy the classic flavors of sesame chicken with minimal effort. The slow cooking method ensures the chicken is tender and flavorful, while the sesame sauce provides a perfect balance of sweet and savory. This dish is ideal for busy families, meal prepping, or anyone looking for a delicious homemade take-out alternative. It’s customizable, easy to make, and absolutely delicious.
### **Recommendation**
For an easy and satisfying meal, Crock Pot Sesame Chicken is a top choice. It’s a family-friendly dish that requires little preparation and can be made ahead of time. The slow-cooked chicken pairs beautifully with rice, and you can easily add vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, this dish will surely become a regular in your meal rotation.
### **Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
While Crock Pot Sesame Chicken is a flavorful dish, you can make it even healthier by opting for low-sodium soy sauce, using a natural sweetener like maple syrup in place of honey, or serving it with cauliflower rice or quinoa for a lower-carb option. You can also add more vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, to boost the nutritional content without sacrificing taste. With these small tweaks, you can enjoy a delicious and health-conscious version of this comfort food.