Slow Cooker Sesame Ginger Chicken

Juicy chicken, bold ginger, savory soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness come together to create this irresistible Slow Cooker Sesame Ginger Chicken—perfectly tender and bursting with flavor.

Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken is the answer to easy, flavorful weeknight dinners. This version takes all the beloved elements of sesame chicken—savory soy sauce, garlic, and sesame flavor—and adds a punch of ginger for extra zing. The slow cooker does all the hard work, creating fall-apart-tender chicken that’s ready for a quick broil to crisp things up.

Serve it over rice, add it to lettuce wraps, or top a fresh salad for a healthier spin. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a winner.

If you love takeout-inspired dishes, be sure to try my Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken and Easy Teriyaki Chicken Bowls next!

Before You Get Started

Here are a few things to note before you start this recipe:

• The night before: You can combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply turn it on and let it cook while you go about your day.
• Prep ahead of time: Chop the chicken and prepare the sauce 1-2 days beforehand. Store everything in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
• Change it up: Check out the list of variations below to customize this dish to your liking.
• Crockpot size: You’ll need at least a 6-quart Crockpot for this recipe to ensure everything cooks evenly!

What You Need To Make Ginger Sesame Chicken

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Both chicken breasts or thighs work great in this recipe! It also turns out great with pork.
• Soy sauce: Adds the umami base to the sauce. Use low-sodium if preferred or swap in coconut aminos or tamari.
• Fresh ginger: The star of this dish! Adds a bold, spicy kick. You can swap in frozen ginger cubes or skip it for a milder flavor.
• Garlic: A must-have for a savory depth of flavor. Fresh or frozen garlic cubes work best.
• Honey or brown sugar: Balances the savory and spicy flavors. Feel free to swap in another sweetener if you prefer.
• Sesame oil: Enhances the nutty, authentic sesame flavor.
• Rice vinegar: Adds a subtle tang to the sauce.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce.
• Optional garnishes: Sesame seeds, cilantro, and sliced green onions for that perfect finish.

Can I Add Vegetables?

Yes! Add veggies like broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers in the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep them tender-crisp.

How to Make Slow Cooker Sesame Ginger Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place chicken in the slow cooker.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, garlic, honey, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Pour over the chicken.
3. Cook: Set the slow cooker to low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender.
4. Thicken the Sauce: Remove the chicken and whisk in cornstarch to the sauce. Let it cook on high for 10-15 minutes to thicken.
5. Broil (Optional): Place the chicken on a baking sheet, brush with sauce, and broil for 2-3 minutes to crisp the edges.
6. Serve: Top with sesame seeds and green onions, and enjoy!

What To Serve With Sesame Ginger Chicken

• Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the chicken into butter lettuce leaves and top with shredded carrots and a drizzle of sriracha.
• Rice Bowls: Serve over jasmine rice or quinoa with steamed veggies for a complete meal.
• Salads: Add to a bed of mixed greens with Asian-inspired veggies like cabbage, snap peas, and bean sprouts.
• Side Dishes: Pair with Sesame Soy Edamame, Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice, or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal.

Change It Up

• Prefer less ginger? Reduce the amount for a milder flavor.
• Like it sweeter? Add an extra tablespoon of honey or brown sugar.
• Want an orange chicken twist? Add a tablespoon of orange marmalade.
• Try a different protein: Swap chicken for pork or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Health Benefits

This recipe doesn’t just taste good—it’s good for you too!

• Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, ginger is a powerhouse spice.
• Garlic: Rich in vitamin C and B6, garlic supports the immune system and heart health.
• Sesame Oil: Contains healthy fats and antioxidants that may reduce inflammation.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken in the fridge overnight. In the morning, add it to the slow cooker, and let it cook throughout the day.

Whether you're hosting dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this Slow Cooker Sesame Ginger Chicken is sure to become a favorite.