Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken Recipe

# Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken Recipe: A Tasty and Simple Dish

If you’re in search of a tasty and effortless dinner choice, slow cooker sesame chicken is your answer. This dish features succulent chicken paired with a delicious sesame sauce, ideal for hectic weeknights or meal planning. The slow cooker lets the flavors blend wonderfully, yielding a meal that is both comforting and fulfilling. In this article, we’ll delve into the ingredients, cooking instructions, and helpful tips for creating the ultimate slow cooker sesame chicken.

## Ingredients

To prepare slow cooker sesame chicken, you will require the following ingredients:

### For the Chicken:
– **2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs**: Thighs are favored for their flavor and tenderness, though chicken breasts can be used as well.
– **Salt and pepper**: For seasoning the chicken.
– **1 tablespoon cornstarch**: To thicken the sauce.

### For the Sesame Sauce:
– **1/2 cup soy sauce**: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier alternative.
– **1/4 cup honey**: Provides sweetness and balances the salty flavor of the soy sauce.
– **1/4 cup rice vinegar**: Adds a tangy taste.
– **2 tablespoons sesame oil**: This imparts the dish’s characteristic nutty flavor.
– **3 cloves garlic, minced**: Fresh garlic enhances the sauce’s depth.
– **1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced**: Ginger contributes a warm, spicy touch.
– **1 tablespoon sriracha or chili paste** (optional): For those who prefer some spice.
– **2 tablespoons sesame seeds**: For decoration.
– **2 green onions, sliced**: For decoration.

## Preparation Steps

### Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
1. **Season the Chicken**: Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. This straightforward step boosts the dish’s overall flavor.
2. **Coat with Cornstarch**: Lightly sprinkle cornstarch over the chicken. This assists in thickening the sauce as it cooks.

### Step 2: Make the Sauce
1. **Combine Ingredients**: In a bowl, whisk the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sriracha (if using). This mixture will be your sauce base.

### Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
1. **Add Chicken**: Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the slow cooker.
2. **Pour Sauce**: Drizzle the prepared sesame sauce over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly coated.

### Step 4: Cook
1. **Set the Slow Cooker**: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should become tender and easy to shred once cooked.

### Step 5: Shred and Serve
1. **Shred the Chicken**: After cooking, employ two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the sauce.
2. **Garnish**: Serve the sesame chicken over rice or noodles, topped with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

## Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken

– **Marinate for Extra Flavor**: If time permits, marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours or overnight prior to cooking. This will further enhance the flavor.
– **Add Vegetables**: For a well-rounded meal, think about incorporating vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas into the slow cooker during the final hour of cooking.
– **Adjust Sweetness**: Feel free to modify the quantity of honey in the sauce to match your taste preferences. You may also substitute brown sugar or maple syrup for a varied flavor.
– **Storage**: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

## Conclusion

Slow cooker sesame chicken is a scrumptious dish that blends convenience with amazing flavor. With minimal preparation time and the ability to cook while you carry on with your day, this recipe is splendid for busy families or anyone wanting to simplify their dinner plans. Whether served atop rice, noodles, or with steamed vegetables, this sesame chicken is bound to become a favorite in your home. Savor the rich, savory flavors and the joy of a home-cooked meal with this simple recipe!