Slow Cooker Sweet Chili Sesame Chicken Recipe

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Cook Time: 170 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup Asian sweet chili sauce
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 medium green onions, chopped
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

Directions

Step 1: Gather all the ingredients and prepare your slow cooker. Coat a 3 1/2- to 4-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Place the chicken thighs and chopped onion into the slow cooker.

Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the Asian sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, ketchup, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and toasted sesame oil.

Step 4: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker and stir to combine.

Step 5: Cover and cook on the low setting for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 2 1/2 to 3 hours.

Step 6: Once the chicken is cooked, shred it directly in the slow cooker using two forks.

Step 7: In a separate small bowl, whisk together water and cornstarch until smooth.

Step 8: Stir the cornstarch mixture into the slow cooker with the shredded chicken. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. If you used the low setting, you may need to cook for up to 45 minutes to ensure the cornstarch is fully cooked and the sauce reaches the right consistency. The sauce should measure 205F (96C) with an instant-read thermometer.

Step 9: Once the sauce has thickened, serve the chicken garnished with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 366
• Total Fat: 14g (17% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 4g (19% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 184mg (61% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 748mg (33% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 25g (9% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (2% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 38g (77% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 4mg (4% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 36mg (3% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (11% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 536mg (11% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note: Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

The Origins and History of Sweet Chili Sesame Chicken

Slow Cooker Sweet Chili Sesame Chicken is a modern twist on traditional Asian-inspired dishes that combine savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. Its roots trace back to East Asian cuisine, particularly Chinese and Thai cooking, where chili sauces, sesame oil, and soy sauce form the backbone of countless recipes. The dish as we know it today likely evolved in Western kitchens, blending authentic Asian flavors with the convenience of the slow cooker, which allows the chicken to become tender while absorbing the rich sauce. This approach made it a household favorite in the United States during the early 2000s, particularly for weeknight dinners.

Regional Variations and Features

While the base ingredients remain consistent, regional variations emerge in both Asia and Western adaptations. In Thailand, sweet chili sauces often include fresh chilies and garlic, giving the dish a brighter, spicier flavor. Chinese-American versions tend to use more sugar and ketchup to create a familiar sweet-savory balance. In Western slow-cooker adaptations, cornstarch is frequently added to thicken the sauce, and sesame seeds are used as a finishing garnish. These regional tweaks allow the recipe to suit local palates while retaining its distinctive sweet-chili flavor profile.

Comparison with Similar Dishes

Sweet Chili Sesame Chicken differs from traditional General Tsos or Orange Chicken primarily in flavor intensity and preparation. Unlike General Tsos, which relies heavily on deep-frying and a thicker, stickier sauce, the slow-cooked version offers a lighter texture while still being flavorful. Compared to Orange Chicken, which is tangy and citrus-forward, Sweet Chili Sesame Chicken balances sweetness with the aromatic notes of sesame and ginger, creating a more nuanced, layered taste. The slow-cooker method also sets it apart by allowing the meat to slowly absorb the sauce, making it exceptionally tender.

Serving Occasions

This dish is commonly served over steamed rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. It is versatile enough for weeknight dinners, casual family meals, or even informal gatherings. Asian restaurants and fusion eateries sometimes feature similar dishes as part of their takeout or buffet options, often accompanied by stir-fried vegetables or pickled sides. Its balance of sweet, savory, and mildly spicy flavors makes it universally appealing, especially when garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds.

Interesting Facts

• The use of sesame oil and seeds in cooking dates back thousands of years in East Asia, historically prized for both flavor and nutritional value.
• Sweet chili sauces, originally from Thailand, were adopted globally because of their unique balance of heat and sweetness.
• Slow cooking allows collagen in chicken thighs to break down naturally, creating a sauce-rich texture without frying or extensive stirring.
• This dish demonstrates the Western adaptation of Asian flavors, showing how traditional ingredients can evolve to suit modern cooking methods.
• Swapping sesame seeds for nuts like cashews, as some home cooks do, adds texture and a subtle richness while keeping the dish visually appealing.

FAQ about Slow Cooker Sweet Chili Sesame Chicken Recipe

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