Name: Slow Cooker Garlic Sesame Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 490 min
Ingredients: 5-6 pieces chicken thighs (bone in and skin on); 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup lite soy sauce; 2 heads garlic (about 16 cloves minced); 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1/4 cup water; green onions (chopped); sesame seeds

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My journey with the Slow Cooker Garlic Sesame Chicken started on a chilly winter evening when I was craving something comforting yet easy to prepare. I had a long day, and the thought of spending hours in the kitchen didn’t appeal to me. That’s when I remembered the wonders of my slow cooker. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, I could enjoy a warm, flavorful dish that would fill the house with enticing aromas. As the chicken cooked slowly, I could feel the anticipation build. The blend of garlic and sesame oil would bring a unique depth, transforming simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal. The best part? You can serve it with rice or noodles, making it versatile enough for any occasion!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
8 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
480 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
26 g

Diet:
Whole30, Vegan, Gluten-Free

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Slow Cooker, Skillet, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Mixing Bowl

What Makes This Slow Cooker Garlic Sesame Chicken Special

Convenience of Slow Cooking

One of my favorite things about the Slow Cooker Garlic Sesame Chicken is the convenience it offers. Simply toss all your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do its magic while you go about your day. Imagine coming home to the smell of dinner already prepared!

Flavorful Fusion

The combination of garlic, sesame oil, and soy sauce creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. The chicken thighs absorb all these rich flavors as they cook, resulting in tender, juicy meat that simply falls off the bone.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish isn’t just for a cozy night in; it’s perfect for gatherings too. Serve it at your next dinner party or family gathering. Everyone will love the unique flavors, and you’ll enjoy the ease of preparation!

Healthier Option

Using a slow cooker also allows for healthier cooking methods. You can control the amount of brown sugar and sodium in the recipe, creating a delicious meal that doesn’t compromise your health goals.

Easy Cleanup

Cleaning up after cooking can be a hassle, but with the Slow Cooker Garlic Sesame Chicken, you’ll have only one pot to clean. Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Slow Cooker Garlic Sesame Chicken

This recipe’s ingredients are a harmonious blend that brings out the best in each other. The star, of course, is the chicken thighs, which are juicy and flavorful. Paired with sesame oil, rice vinegar, and soy sauce, this dish captures the essence of Asian cuisine in a wholesome way. Let’s dive into the key players!

5-6 chicken thighs (bone-in and skin-on) – These juicy cuts of meat add richness and flavor, making every bite tender and satisfying.
2 tablespoons sesame oil – This ingredient brings a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
2 tablespoons rice vinegar – A tangy touch that balances the richness of the chicken.
1/4 cup brown sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully during cooking.
1/2 cup chicken broth – Provides moisture and depth to the sauce.
1/2 cup lite soy sauce – The salty umami flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
2 garlic heads (about 16 cloves, minced) – The aromatic base that permeates the dish with delicious garlic flavor.
2 tablespoons cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce at the end of cooking.
1/4 cup water – Helps to mix the cornstarch and create a smooth sauce.
Green onions (chopped) – A fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
Sesame seeds – For an extra crunch and nutty taste as a finishing touch.

Making This Slow Cooker Garlic Sesame Chicken

Now, let’s get into the fun part—making the Slow Cooker Garlic Sesame Chicken. This is where the magic happens, and you’ll see just how easy it is to whip up this dish. Follow these simple steps to create a meal that your family will adore.

Start by placing your chicken thighs in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. This step is optional, but it gives the chicken a wonderful crispy exterior.
Next, add 2 tablespoons of sesame oil to the skillet. You’ll love the aroma that fills the kitchen as it heats up, enhancing the flavor of the chicken.
Now, it’s time to transfer the chicken to a 6-quart slow cooker. Arrange the thighs skin side up. This positioning ensures that the skin stays crispy as they cook.
In a mixing bowl, combine the remaining ingredients: rice vinegar, brown sugar, chicken broth, lite soy sauce, minced garlic, cornstarch, and water. Whisk them together until well combined.
Pour the mixture over the chicken, ensuring that it’s evenly coated. The colors will be vibrant, and the smell will already start to tantalize your senses.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook. Choose high for 4 to 5 hours or low for 7 to 8 hours, depending on your schedule. You want the chicken to be tender and fully cooked.
Half an hour before the cooking time ends, make the sauce thicker. Whisk the cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth, then stir it into the slow cooker.
Once your cooking time is complete, check the sauce. It should be thick and glossy, clinging to the chicken perfectly.
Before serving, garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This step not only adds flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing.
Finally, serve your delicious Slow Cooker Garlic Sesame Chicken over fluffy rice or tender noodles, allowing the sauce to soak in. Enjoy every bite!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Temperature: Ensure your slow cooker is set on the right temperature. High heat speeds up cooking but can dry out the chicken if left too long.
Ingredient Quality: Use fresh garlic and high-quality soy sauce for the best flavor results.
Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add more cornstarch and water mixture earlier in the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Customization Ideas

The beauty of the Slow Cooker Garlic Sesame Chicken lies in its adaptability. You can tweak it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas to customize your dish:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the chicken’s tenderness.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this dish! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it into freezer-safe bags. It will keep for up to 2 months.
Pairing: Serve with steamed rice, noodles, or even in a wrap for a delightful meal on the go.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and tofu for a vegetarian version.
Spice It Up: Add some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for a spicy kick.

What to Pair With Slow Cooker Garlic Sesame Chicken

When it comes to serving the Slow Cooker Garlic Sesame Chicken, there are plenty of delicious options to consider. Here’s how to make it a complete meal:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing. The fluffy rice soaks up the flavorful sauce perfectly.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Brightly colored veggies, such as broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas, add a healthy crunch to your plate.
Noodles: Serve over noodles for a delightful twist. Toss in some sesame oil for added flavor.
Salads: A simple green salad with a tangy dressing complements the richness of the chicken.
Occasions: This dish is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, and casual gatherings. Everyone will appreciate the flavors!
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll taste just as good the next day!

FAQ

While you can use chicken breasts, I recommend sticking with thighs for this recipe. Chicken thighs have more fat and flavor, which results in a juicier dish. If you prefer breasts, remember they may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

To store leftovers of the Slow Cooker Garlic Sesame Chicken, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to two months. Just make sure to reheat it gently to keep the chicken tender.

Absolutely! To make the Slow Cooker Garlic Sesame Chicken gluten-free, simply substitute the lite soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative, such as tamari. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without the gluten.

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even a fresh salad. Each of these options adds to the meal while balancing the flavors of the Slow Cooker Garlic Sesame Chicken. Feel free to get creative!

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Garlic Sesame Chicken is truly a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a must-try for anyone looking for an easy yet impressive meal. I encourage you to whip it up soon and savor the delightful flavors it brings. You won’t be disappointed!