General Tso’s Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish known for its sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. This slow cooker version allows you to enjoy this delicious dish with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect Slow Cooker General Tso’s Chicken. Additionally, we’ll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Ingredients
For the Slow Cooker General Tso’s Chicken:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Green onions, sliced (optional for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Mix Cornstarch and Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the cornstarch mixture.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Brown Chicken: Add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until they are browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked through at this stage. Transfer the browned chicken to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- Add Sauce to Slow Cooker: Pour the sauce over the browned chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: If desired, garnish the General Tso’s Chicken with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve: Serve the chicken hot over steamed rice or alongside your favorite vegetables. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Cornstarch Coating: The cornstarch helps create a crispy coating on the chicken and also thickens the sauce as it cooks.
- Adjusting Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired spice level. For a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
Variations
- Vegetable General Tso’s: Add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking for a complete meal.
- Tofu General Tso’s: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu for a vegetarian version. Ensure the tofu is well-drained and follow the same steps.
- Pineapple General Tso’s: Add pineapple chunks during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a sweet and tangy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They will add more flavor and stay juicier during cooking.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover General Tso’s Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving.
Q3: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, you can freeze General Tso’s Chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q4: What can I serve with General Tso’s Chicken?
A: This dish pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables.
Q5: Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe on the stovetop. After browning the chicken, add the sauce to the skillet and simmer over low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Slow Cooker General Tso’s Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a delicious and satisfying meal that your loved ones will enjoy. Serve this delightful dish with your favorite sides for a complete and delightful dining experience!
