5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Honey Sesame Chicken
If you’re craving sweet-and-savory takeout flavors without the high cost or extra work, this slow cooker honey sesame chicken is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. Made with just 5 simple ingredients, this easy crock pot chicken recipe delivers tender, fall-apart chicken thighs coated in a sticky honey-soy sauce that tastes even better than mall food court takeout.
Everything goes straight into the slow cooker no browning, no complicated prep making it perfect for busy workdays, meal prep, or hands-off family dinners. By dinnertime, your kitchen smells incredible, and dinner is basically done for you.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Honey Sesame Chicken:
Only 5 ingredients budget-friendly and pantry-based
Dump-and-go slow cooker recipe minimal prep, maximum flavor
Juicy, tender chicken thighs that don’t dry out
Healthier than takeout with less oil and sodium control
Perfect for meal prep reheats beautifully for lunches
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
½ cup honey
⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
2 tablespoons sesame seeds (plus more for garnish, optional)
Directions:
Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker in an even layer.
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, and toasted sesame oil until smooth.
Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken, turning slightly to coat.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is very tender.
Shred or chunk the chicken directly in the slow cooker and stir to coat in the sauce.
Stir in the sesame seeds and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot over rice, spooning extra sauce on top. Garnish with additional sesame seeds if desired.
Serving Ideas:
This honey sesame chicken is delicious served over:
Steamed white or brown rice
Quinoa for extra protein
Cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb option
Add a side of steamed broccoli, snap peas, or green beans to turn it into a complete, balanced meal.
Tips, Variations & Meal Prep:
Thicker sauce: Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir in during the last 15–20 minutes on HIGH.
Add veggies: Stir in frozen stir-fry vegetables during the last 30–45 minutes.
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
Meal prep friendly: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Add a splash of water when reheating to loosen the sauce
