Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken

Life gets hectic, and cooking a flavorful, satisfying meal after a long day can feel like a monumental task. That’s where this Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken recipe truly shines! Imagine coming home to the enticing aroma of tender chicken bathed in a rich, sweet, and tangy sauce, all without spending hours at the stove. This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it an absolute lifesaver for busy weeknights.

It’s an Asian-inspired delight that effortlessly combines convenience with irresistible taste. The magic of the slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe promises a rewarding experience. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or even entertaining guests who appreciate delicious, fuss-free food.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1 cup Asian sesame with ginger and soy dressing and marinade (we recommend Ken’s Steakhouse Brand for its balanced flavor)
• ⅓ cup apricot preserves
• 1 oz packet Lipton onion soup mix

Ingredient Deep Dive & Smart Substitutions

This recipe relies on a few key ingredients to create its signature flavor profile. Here’s a closer look and how you can adapt it to your pantry or dietary preferences:

• Chicken Breast: While chicken breast provides a lean protein option, feel free to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for an even more tender and juicy result. Thighs are more forgiving in the slow cooker and are less likely to dry out over longer cooking times. Ensure chicken is thawed before adding to the slow cooker for even cooking.
• Asian Sesame with Ginger and Soy Dressing: The beauty of this recipe lies in using a good quality store-bought dressing. Ken’s Steakhouse Brand is a fantastic choice for its harmonious blend of sesame, ginger, and soy. If you prefer to make your own or need a substitute, you can whisk together ½ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free), ¼ cup rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar, 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger, and 2 cloves minced garlic. This homemade blend will offer a similar, perhaps even fresher, taste.
• Apricot Preserves: These preserves are crucial for providing that sweet and slightly tart balance to the savory sauce, as well as helping it thicken beautifully. If you don’t have apricot, peach preserves, orange marmalade, or even a good quality apple jelly can work as excellent alternatives, each adding a slightly different fruity nuance.
• Lipton Onion Soup Mix: This packet is a secret weapon for adding a profound depth of savory, umami flavor without needing to chop onions or add extra seasonings. It brings a savory background that complements the Asian dressing. If you’d rather avoid it, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of dried parsley or celery seed. Just be aware that the overall flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Slow Cooker: Begin by lightly spraying the inside of your slow cooker with a non-stick cooking spray. This simple step helps prevent the chicken and sauce from sticking to the sides, making cleanup much easier later on.

2. Whisk the Flavorful Sauce: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the Asian sesame dressing, apricot preserves, and the entire packet of Lipton onion soup mix. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly until they are well combined and smooth. This creates the incredible savory-sweet base for your chicken.

3. Prepare the Chicken (Optional Step): For more even cooking and easier serving, you can cut each chicken breast into 2-3 large chunks. While this step is entirely optional, it allows the chicken to absorb more of the delicious sauce and makes shredding or slicing after cooking a breeze. If you prefer whole chicken breasts, that works too!

4. Combine and Cook: Place your prepared chicken pieces into the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the whisked sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Secure the lid on your slow cooker.

5. Slow Cook to Perfection: Set your slow cooker to the “LOW” setting and cook for 4-6 hours. The exact cooking time can vary based on your slow cooker and the size of your chicken. The chicken is perfectly cooked when it’s tender, easily shreddable, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6. Serve and Garnish: Once the chicken is cooked, you can gently shred it with two forks right in the slow cooker, or remove it and slice it. We love serving this flavorful sesame chicken over a generous bed of fluffy white rice. For an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle with sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions (scallions). Enjoy this wonderfully easy and delicious meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken

• Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker, turn the setting to “HIGH,” and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
• Add Some Heat: For those who enjoy a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes added to the sauce mixture before cooking will provide a delightful spicy note.
• Vegetable Boost: Feel free to add some chopped broccoli florets, sliced carrots, or snap peas during the last 30-60 minutes of cooking. This adds nutrition and a pop of color to your meal.
• Garnish for Freshness: Don’t skip the garnishes! Fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds not only add visual appeal but also enhance the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. Cook a large batch, then divide it into individual portions with rice or noodles for quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions for Your Sesame Chicken

This versatile Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, allowing you to customize your meal based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some popular serving suggestions:

• Classic White Rice: The fluffy, neutral flavor of white rice is the perfect canvas for soaking up every drop of that savory-sweet sesame sauce. Basmati or Jasmine rice are excellent choices.
• Nutty Brown Rice: For a healthier, whole-grain option, brown rice offers a slightly chewier texture and nutty flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
• Noodles Galore: Serve it over ramen noodles, egg noodles, or even rice vermicelli for a delightful noodle bowl experience. You can stir the shredded chicken and sauce directly into the cooked noodles.
• Steamed or Stir-Fried Vegetables: Add a vibrant touch with steamed broccoli, snow peas, green beans, or a medley of stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers and carrots.
• Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice: If you’re looking for a low-carb or gluten-free alternative, quinoa or cauliflower rice makes a great base.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter, fresher meal, serve the shredded chicken in crisp lettuce cups, garnished with shredded carrots and a sprinkle of cilantro.

Storage & Reheating Tips

This Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken is excellent for leftovers!

• Storage: Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has become too thick. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot.

Recipe Video

Watch Julia Pacheco demonstrate how to make this delightful Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken, along with other easy dump-and-go crockpot dinners!

Nutrition Information

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