General Tso’s Chicken is more than just a dish; it’s a fusion of cultures, a blend of flavors that has captivated taste buds around the globe. Named after the esteemed Chinese military leader, General Tso Tsung-tang, this dish’s true origins are shrouded in mystery, with tales of its inception ranging from New York City to Taiwan. Regardless of where it started, General Tso’s Chicken has cemented its place as a cherished meal in countless households, including mine.
Growing up, this dish was a symbol of celebration, a staple request for birthdays and milestones. Yet, the restaurant versions often left me longing for something less greasy, with a more harmonious blend of flavors. That’s why I’m thrilled to share this slow cooker rendition of General Tso’s Chicken. This version promises a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried method without sacrificing the rich taste that makes it a family favorite.
Slow Cooker General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
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
Optional for garnish: sliced green onions, sesame seeds
Preparation
Prep the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
Brown the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until it’s browned on all sides, about 3-5 minutes.
Slow Cook: Transfer the browned chicken to your slow cooker.
Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Once combined, pour this mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Cook: Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 4 hours, or switch it to high for a quicker 2-hour cook time.
Serve: Ladle the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice, and if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and texture.
Diving into this slow cooker version of General Tso’s Chicken not only brings back cherished memories but also allows you to create new ones. This dish is a testament to the power of adaptation, showcasing how traditional flavors can be embraced and enhanced in our modern kitchens. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this General Tso’s Chicken is sure to delight and satisfy. Enjoy the rich, complex flavors of this beloved dish, now made simpler and healthier in your slow cooker.