If you’re craving something that tastes like takeout but takes almost no effort, this Crockpot Honey Sesame Chicken will be your new weeknight favorite.
It’s the perfect harmony of sweet honey, savory soy, and nutty sesame, all slow-cooked into tender, fall-apart chicken. Whether you serve it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or even tucked into tacos (yes, it’s that versatile!), this dish delivers that satisfying, restaurant-quality flavor — straight from your crockpot.
And the best part? You can prep it in just 5 minutes, set it, and forget it.
This dish is part of what makes crockpot recipes so irresistible: comfort food, convenience, and deliciousness all in one pot.
Why You’ll Love Crockpot Honey Sesame Chicken
- Set it and forget it: Just mix, pour, and let the slow cooker work.
- Better than takeout: Healthier and fresher with real ingredients.
- Kid-approved: Sweet, mild, and flavorful — no complaints at the table.
- Meal prep dream: Perfect for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Budget-friendly: Made with pantry staples and chicken thighs or breasts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound (454 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 2–3 cloves)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
For garnish and serving:
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Cooked white or brown rice
- Steamed broccoli or snap peas
The Best Crockpot Honey Sesame Chicken
Equipment
- slow cooker
- large bowl
- whisk or spoon for mixing sauce
- tongs or forks for shredding chicken
- measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine onion, soy sauce, honey, ketchup, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger and red pepper.
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, to taste. Place chicken thighs into a 6-qt slow cooker. Add soy sauce mixture and gently toss to combine. Cover and cook on low heat for 3 hours and 30 minutes.
- Remove chicken thighs from the slow cooker and shred the chicken before returning to the pot with the juices. Cover and keep warm for an additional 30 minutes.
- Serve immediately, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Notes
How to Make Crockpot Honey Sesame Chicken
Step 1: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, ketchup, vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 2: Add to Crockpot
Place the chicken in the crockpot and pour the sauce evenly over it.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours or High for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the crockpot.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water, then stir it into the sauce. Cover and cook on High for another 10–15 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Spoon the saucy chicken over a bed of rice, sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions, and enjoy the sticky, sweet perfection.
Tips for the Best Honey Sesame Chicken
- Thighs stay juicier than breasts — great for slow cooking.
- Add veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli in the last hour of cooking.
- Adjust sweetness: Use less honey for a more savory balance.
- Add crunch: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or cashews before serving.
- Freeze leftovers: Perfect for make-ahead meals!
Serving Ideas
- Over Rice: Classic and comforting.
- In Lettuce Wraps: Fresh, light, and fun to eat.
- In Tacos: A creative twist for taco night.
- On Salad: Great as a warm protein over Asian-inspired greens.
- Meal Prep Bowls: Add rice, chicken, and veggies for ready-to-go lunches.
How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat
Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Cool completely and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm gently in a pan or microwave until hot.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add sriracha or chili garlic sauce for a fiery twist.
- Orange Sesame Chicken: Replace half the soy sauce with orange juice.
- Garlic Lover’s Version: Add roasted garlic for a deep, sweet aroma.
- Sticky Teriyaki Honey Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and a splash of pineapple juice.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
(Approximate, without rice)
- Calories: 305
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes — increase cooking time by about an hour, and ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just make sure your crockpot isn’t overfilled — add a bit more sauce if needed.
Can I make this in the Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on high pressure for 12 minutes, then quick-release and shred.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about slow-cooked meals that fill your home with the smell of comfort and warmth. This Crockpot Honey Sesame Chicken is one of those recipes that’s simple enough for weeknights but special enough for guests.
Sticky, saucy, and bursting with flavor — it’s proof that crockpot recipes can be both easy and gourmet.
So go ahead — dust off that slow cooker, toss in a few ingredients, and let the magic simmer.