Slow Cooker General Tso’s Chicken

A Restaurant-Quality Classic, Made Easy at Home

General Tso’s Chicken is a beloved takeout dish, known for its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. This slow cooker version delivers all the richness and depth of the original while keeping the process effortless. The result? Tender, juicy chicken coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce that clings to every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests, this recipe guarantees restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hands-Off Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Healthier Alternative: No deep frying—just tender chicken with a rich, flavorful glaze.
• Authentic Taste, Simplified Process: The sauce has the perfect umami balance, made with pantry-friendly ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for searing, optional)

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/3 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar)
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger (grated)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/3 cup water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water, for thickening)

For Garnish:

• Sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions
• Steamed broccoli (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. This helps create a velvety texture when cooked.
• If desired, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Quickly sear the chicken in batches for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden. This step enhances the depth of flavor but is optional.

2. Make the Sauce

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and water. This mixture forms the base of the sauce and infuses the chicken with bold, aromatic flavors.

3. Slow Cook to Perfection

• Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it, ensuring even coverage.
• Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or high for 1.5–2 hours, until the chicken is tender.

4. Thicken the Sauce

• About 20 minutes before serving, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry.
• Stir the slurry into the slow cooker, cover, and let it cook for another 15–20 minutes. The sauce will thicken into a glossy, velvety coating.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Spoon the General Tso’s Chicken over steamed white rice or jasmine rice.
• Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.
• Serve with steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

• Use Chicken Thighs: They stay tender and juicy, absorbing the sauce beautifully.
• Searing for Depth: While optional, a quick sear enhances the dish’s texture and caramelized notes.
• Adjusting Spice Levels: Like it milder? Reduce the red pepper flakes. Prefer it fiery? Add a touch of Sriracha or extra chili flakes.
• Doubling the Recipe: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

Why This Version Stands Out

Unlike many slow cooker versions, this recipe focuses on maintaining texture and depth of flavor. The cornstarch coating ensures the chicken stays tender, while the balanced sauce thickens to a true takeout-quality glaze. Every bite is packed with savory umami, gentle sweetness, and just the right amount of heat.