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General Tso Chicken

A hands-off slow cooker recipe that delivers a sweet and tangy chicken dish with a touch of heat, perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

For the sauce

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce Use low-sodium or tamari for gluten-free options.
  • 1/4 cup honey Can substitute with maple syrup or brown sugar.
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced About 2–3 cloves.
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced Fresh is best.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust to taste.

Main ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken breast, diced Thighs can be used for more fat and flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Or another neutral oil for sautéing.
  • Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until the cornstarch is dissolved and the mixture looks smooth.
  • Place the diced chicken breast into the crockpot in an even layer.
  • Pour the sauce over the chicken and stir so every piece is coated. Scrape the bowl to ensure no sauce is wasted.

Cooking

  • Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours until chicken is tender and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
  • Optionally, heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Scoop the chicken and sauce into the hot skillet and sauté for 3–5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and slightly caramelizes.

Serving

  • Spoon hot General Tso Chicken over freshly cooked rice or noodles and garnish as desired.

Notes

Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3–4 days in an airtight container. For freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2–3 months.
Keyword Crockpot Chicken, General Tso Chicken, Slow Cooker Chicken