As the sun sets and the evening calls for comfort food, nothing beats the satisfying aroma of Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken Keto wafting through my kitchen. The first time I made this dish, I was amazed at how simple it was to prepare yet so incredibly flavorful. Using tender chicken thighs bathed in a rich, glossy sesame sauce, this recipe is a fabulous reminder that healthy eating doesn’t have to be dull or labor-intensive.
With its low-carb profile, this dish fits seamlessly into a keto lifestyle, making it a staple for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without the fuss. I love that it cooks slowly, allowing all the incredible flavors to meld beautifully, so when dinnertime arrives, you’re greeted with a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Get ready to savor each bite and discover why this Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken Keto might just become your new favorite go-to!
Why is Sesame Chicken Keto a Must-Try?
Easy Preparation: This Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken Keto is not only effortless to make, but it also requires minimal hands-on time. Flavor Explosion: The sweet and savory sesame sauce infuses the chicken with delightful flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Healthy Comfort: Enjoy all the comfort of traditional sesame chicken without the carbs. Meal Prep Friendly: Whip up a big batch, enjoy the leftovers, or freeze for those hectic days. You can pair it with steamed vegetables or cauliflower rice for a complete meal. Trust me, this dish will become a dinner favorite among family and friends!
Sesame Chicken Keto Ingredients
• To create this mouthwatering Sesame Chicken Keto, gather these essential ingredients:
For the Chicken
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – A tender choice that holds moisture well; opt for chicken breasts for a leaner variation if desired.
For the Sauce
- Soy Sauce – Adds a savory umami kick; use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
- Sesame Oil – Infuses a nutty, aromatic flavor; can be swapped with another light oil for a different profile.
- Chicken Broth – Keeps the dish moist and flavorful; replace with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Erythritol (or preferred sweetener) – Balances flavors with sweetness; feel free to adjust based on taste or substitute with your favorite sweetener.
- Garlic (minced) – Enhances the savory profile; fresh garlic is always best for flavor.
- Ginger (minced) – Adds warmth and zest; ground ginger can work if you find yourself without fresh.
For Garnish
- Sesame Seeds – Offers a pleasant crunch and visual flair; optional but highly recommended for presentation.
- Green Onions (sliced) – Brings a fresh crunch and brightness; totally optional, yet it makes for a delicious contrast.
Get ready to indulge in a delightful, flavorful journey with this easy-to-follow Sesame Chicken Keto recipe!
How to Make Sesame Chicken Keto
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Prepare the Chicken: Place 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the slow cooker, ensuring they’re spread evenly for even cooking.
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Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup sesame oil, 1/4 cup chicken broth, 3 tablespoons erythritol, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon minced ginger until well blended.
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Combine: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker, making sure all pieces are coated nicely with the sauce.
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Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours. The chicken is ready when it’s tender and shreds easily, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
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Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir in 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds to blend the flavors beautifully.
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Serve: Dish out the sesame chicken hot and top with sliced green onions for extra freshness and crunch.
Optional: Serve with steamed vegetables or cauliflower rice for a complete keto-friendly meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Sesame Chicken Keto
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Watch the Clock: Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking the chicken thighs, which can dry out.
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Flavor Boost: For those who enjoy a kick, add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy sesame chicken keto version.
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Perfect Storage: Let leftovers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container; they last up to 3 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.
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Reheat with Care: When reheating, use a microwave with a damp paper towel or stovetop with a little added broth to maintain moisture.
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Customize It: Feel free to swap chicken thighs for breasts or even add vegetables to your slow cooker for added nutrition without altering the delicious flavors.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken Keto?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful pairings that complement the rich flavors of this delicious chicken.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative to traditional rice, it absorbs the savory sauce perfectly.
- Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable adds a lovely crunch and a nutritious boost to your plate.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh, these noodles add a satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
- Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed in garlic, these beans will provide a flavor pop and a lovely color contrast.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and tangy, this salad helps balance the rich flavors of the chicken with its crisp and cool notes.
- Sesame Dressing Salad: A simple side salad drizzled with sesame dressing will carry through the dish’s flavors wonderfully.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink to cleanse your palate and enhance the meal’s brightness.
- Sugar-Free Cheesecake: For dessert, indulge in a creamy slice that keeps the keto spirit alive while satisfying your sweet tooth!
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken Keto are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the sauce (soy sauce, sesame oil, chicken broth, erythritol, garlic, and ginger) and allowing the chicken to soak in those flavors in the refrigerator. Just ensure it’s well-covered to maintain its quality and prevent any unwanted browning. If you need even more preparation time, the cooked sesame chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop with a bit of added broth for moisture, ensuring it remains just as delicious as the first day.
How to Store and Freeze Sesame Chicken Keto
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sesame chicken keto for up to 2 months. Use freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave with a damp paper towel or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to prevent dryness.
- Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Sesame Chicken Keto Variations
Get ready to explore fun adaptations and customizations that will elevate your Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken Keto experience!
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Vegetable Additions: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last hour of cooking for extra color and nutrition. This adds a delightful crunch and vibrancy to your dish.
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Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, mix in red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a zesty upgrade. Each bite will be bursting with flavor!
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Citrus Zing: Add a splash of fresh lime juice or a bit of zest to the sauce to brighten the flavors and create a refreshing contrast with the savory elements.
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Asian Twist: Incorporate a tablespoon of rice vinegar for an extra layer of tanginess. It complements the sesame oil beautifully, creating a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
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Replace Chicken: Swap chicken thighs for tender beef or pork for a different protein profile. Just be mindful of the cooking times and adjust as necessary for your choice of meat.
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Nutty Variation: Fold in chopped cashews or peanuts just before serving for a delightful crunch and an added nutty flavor that beautifully complements the sesame tones.
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Sweet Tooth: Experiment with different sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup, if you want a more natural flavor. Adjust to your preference for a sweeter or more subtle taste.
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Herb Infusion: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil before serving to elevate the dish further with aromatic freshness. It not only looks appealing but adds a fragrant accent that will have guests asking for your secret!
Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken Keto Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results with your Slow Cooker Sesame Chicken Keto, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They offer a tender texture and stay moist during the long cooking process. If you prefer chicken breasts, be mindful to adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster and dry out more easily.
How should I store the leftovers?
Very good question! Once your delicious Sesame Chicken Keto has cooled completely, place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember, the key to longevity is ensuring it’s completely cooled before sealing the container to maintain maximum freshness!
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Sesame Chicken Keto for up to 2 months. I recommend using freezer bags for this; just make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best results.
What should I do if my chicken is overcooked?
It happens to the best of us! If you find your chicken is a bit on the dry side after cooking, don’t worry. You can add a splash of chicken broth while reheating to bring back some moisture. Also, shredding the chicken and mixing it back into the sauce can help incorporate more flavor and moisture into each bite.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Great point! This recipe is naturally low-carb and fits well into a keto diet. However, if you have gluten sensitivities, ensure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Always double-check your preferred erythritol or sweeteners for any allergens, and feel free to adjust the recipe as needed to suit your dietary needs, making it as inclusive as possible.
What other vegetables can I add to this dish while cooking?
I often recommend adding veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition and color! If you choose to include them, simply chop and toss them into the slow cooker alongside the chicken and sauce, adjusting the cooking time as needed. Adding vegetables doesn’t just elevate the dish but also provides a delightful crunchy texture against the tender chicken. Enjoy experimenting!
Irresistible Sesame Chicken Keto for Delicious Healthy Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the slow cooker, ensuring they’re spread evenly for even cooking.
- In a separate bowl, combine 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup sesame oil, 1/4 cup chicken broth, 3 tablespoons erythritol, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon minced ginger until well blended.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker, making sure all pieces are coated nicely with the sauce.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours. The chicken is ready when it’s tender and shreds easily, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir in 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds to blend the flavors beautifully.
- Dish out the sesame chicken hot and top with sliced green onions for extra freshness and crunch.