Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of tender, succulent chicken glazed in a perfectly balanced sweet and savory sauce. This Crockpot Honey Sesame Chicken is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that transforms ordinary weeknight dinners into extraordinary feasts. With minimal prep time and the magic of slow cooking, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry with paper towels and placing them at the bottom of the crockpot in a single layer.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the honey-soy sauce mixture evenly over the chicken thighs in the crockpot, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Cover the crockpot and set to cook on low heat for 4 hours. This slow cooking process will help the chicken become tender and absorb all the delicious flavors.
- About 30 minutes before cooking is complete, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry, which will help thicken the sauce.
- Carefully remove the chicken thighs from the crockpot and transfer to a serving plate, keeping them warm.
- Stir the cornstarch slurry into the remaining sauce in the crockpot, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Return the chicken to the crockpot, coating each piece with the thickened sauce.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or your preferred side dish.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for bone-in chicken thighs for maximum flavor and tenderness. The dark meat stays juicier during slow cooking.
- Prep Like a Pro: Pat the chicken dry before placing it in the crockpot to ensure the sauce adheres better and creates a more concentrated flavor.
- Sauce Secret: Whisk the honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic thoroughly to create a smooth, well-integrated marinade.
- Thickening Technique: The cornstarch slurry is crucial for creating that glossy, restaurant-style sauce. Make sure to whisk it in carefully to avoid lumps.
- Garnish Matters: Toast the sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan before sprinkling to enhance their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve over steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The sauce is so delicious, you'll want to catch every drop!
- Make-Ahead Magic: This dish tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 120mg
