general tso chicken recipe slow cooker
The Best general tso chicken recipe slow cooker
Oh, you’re talking about Tso’s Chicken? That’s one of my favorite go-to recipes—simple, flavorful, and always a hit with my kids. I love how it’s got that perfect balance of crispy, savory, and slightly spicy kick without being overwhelming. It’s something I make on busy weeknights when I need something quick but still feels special. My boys love it because it’s not too heavy, and it’s got that little bit of tang and heat that makes it exciting. Plus, it’s something I can prep ahead and slow cook, so it’s hands-off while still tasting like it was made fresh.
This recipe is also great for special occasions—whether it’s a family dinner or just a night in with the kids. It’s versatile enough to serve with rice or noodles, and the flavors really come together when it’s slow-cooked. I’ll often double the recipe and freeze half for later, so it’s always there when I need a quick meal. Plus, it’s got some healthy perks. The chicken is lean, and the sauce is packed with veggies if you add them in, like bell peppers or onions. It’s not too greasy, and the spices keep things balanced without being too heavy on the sodium. My kids don’t even realize how good it is for them—just another reason I’m always reaching for it.
Slow Cooker General Tso’s Chicken
A flavorful and tender slow-cooker version of General Tso’s Chicken, featuring a sweet and spicy sauce that balances perfectly with crispy fried chicken. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1/2 cup honey or brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Set aside.
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2 In a separate bowl, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey/brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, and sriracha. Stir well.
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3 In a slow cooker, combine the chicken mixture and sauce. Stir gently to ensure all pieces are coated.
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4 Cook on low for 2 hours or until chicken is tender and sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally.
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5 For crispy edges, transfer chicken to a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes until golden brown (optional).
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6 In a small pan, mix cornstarch with water, then stir into the sauce in the slow cooker. Cook on high for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
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7 Garnish with toasted almonds, sliced bell peppers, and chopped cilantro. Serve with steamed rice.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowls
- Food processor (optional)
- Kitchen torch or oven for toasting almonds
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker General Tso’s Chicken Works
This General Tso Chicken recipe in the slow cooker is always a lifesaver for family gatherings because it’s simple enough to prep ahead while still delivering that bold, tangy flavor everyone loves. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a crowd-pleasing dish without the fuss—just toss everything in, let it cook low and slow, and you’ve got a dish that’s always a hit. Plus, it’s easy to customize with extra veggies or serve with rice or noodles, so it works whether you’re feeding kids or adults.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker General Tso’s Chicken
What is the best type of chicken to use for a slow cooker TSO (Teriyaki Sauce) recipe?
The best type of chicken for a slow cooker TSO recipe is boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They are flavorful, tender, and hold up well in the slow cooker. You can also use chicken breasts, but they may dry out if not cooked long enough. For extra juiciness, consider using a mix of thighs and breasts.
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How long should I cook the chicken in the slow cooker with TSO sauce?
For chicken thighs, cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or ON HIGH for 2-3 hours. For chicken breasts, cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or ON HIGH for 1.5-2.5 hours. Always check the chicken temperature with a meat thermometer—it should reach 165°F (74°C) internally to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
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Can I make the TSO sauce ahead of time and store it separately?
Yes! You can prepare the TSO sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, simply add the sauce to the slow cooker with the chicken and cook as directed. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cooks, so you may need to adjust consistency if preferred.
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What are some common substitutions for ingredients in a slow cooker TSO recipe?
Here are some common substitutions: – Chicken thighs → Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (add 30-60 extra minutes of cooking time) or chicken drumsticks (use slightly more sauce). – Teriyaki sauce → Mix equal parts soy sauce, honey, and a little brown sugar for a quick homemade substitute. – Garlic → Minced garlic powder or a small amount of fresh minced garlic (if using powder, increase to 2-3 tsp). – Green onions → Use scallions or substitute with a small amount of chopped celery for texture. – Peanuts → Almonds or cashews work well as a nutty alternative.
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How can I make the TSO chicken extra crispy on the outside?
To achieve extra crispy chicken in the slow cooker, try these tips: 1. Bake or air-fry the chicken first – Pat the chicken dry, season generously with salt and pepper, then bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes until golden before adding it to the slow cooker. 2. Add cornstarch or flour – Toss the chicken in a little cornstarch or flour before slow cooking to help it crisp up. 3. Use a slow cooker with a lid – Cooking with the lid slightly ajar (if possible) can help create a slight steam effect that enhances browning. 4. Add a splash of oil – Lightly brush the chicken with oil before slow cooking to promote crispiness.
