Slow Cooker General Tso’s Chicken Recipe – Easy, Flavor-Packed & Healthier Takeout at Home!
Craving your favorite Chinese takeout dish but want something easier, healthier, and homemade? This Slow Cooker General Tso’s Chicken is the perfect solution! Packed with bold, sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, this slow cooker version is incredibly easy to make and doesn’t sacrifice any of the traditional taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
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1/2 cup cornstarch
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1/4 cup soy sauce
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1/4 cup rice vinegar
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2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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2 teaspoons minced garlic
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1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Optional Garnishes:
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Sliced green onions
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Toasted sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Coat the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine:
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Chicken pieces
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Cornstarch
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Salt and pepper
Toss well until the chicken is evenly coated. This helps the chicken develop a slight crisp and also thickens the sauce while cooking.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the coated chicken pieces in batches and cook for 3–5 minutes, just until browned (not fully cooked). This step locks in flavor.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Brown in batches for the best results.
Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Place the browned chicken into your slow cooker in an even layer.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the following ingredients:
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Chicken broth
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Soy sauce
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Rice vinegar
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Hoisin sauce
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Brown sugar
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Minced garlic
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Minced ginger
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Red pepper flakes
Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Pour Sauce Over Chicken
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Stir gently to coat all the pieces evenly.
Step 6: Slow Cook
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Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours, or on HIGH for 2 hours, until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
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The sauce will thicken as it cooks, thanks to the cornstarch from the chicken coating.
Step 7: Serve & Garnish
Serve the General Tso’s Chicken over steamed white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Garnish with:
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Sliced green onions
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Sprinkle of sesame seeds
Serving Suggestions
Pair this delicious slow cooker dish with:
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Steamed broccoli
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Stir-fried veggies
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Jasmine or Basmati rice
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Egg rolls or dumplings for a takeout-style dinner
Tips for Success
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Prefer darker meat? You can use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier texture.
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Like it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes or a squirt of sriracha to the sauce.
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Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and make sure your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: It’s best to use fresh or thawed chicken to ensure even cooking and better texture.
Q: Can I skip browning the chicken?
A: While you can add the chicken directly to the slow cooker, browning adds better texture and flavor.
Q: How can I make it extra crispy?
A: After cooking, place chicken under the broiler for a few minutes to get that crisp takeout-style finish.