This recipe is even better than the restaurant version, my hubby loves it.

General Tso’s Chicken is a dish that has found its way into the hearts and homes of many across the globe. While its origins are shrouded in mystery, the dish has become a staple in American Chinese cuisine, renowned for its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Despite bearing the name of a famous Chinese military leader, General Tso Tsung-tang, there is no concrete evidence that links him directly to this dish. Claims of its invention have surfaced from both Taiwan and New York City, yet its true birthplace remains a topic of culinary debate.

Regardless of its origin, General Tso’s Chicken has evolved into a beloved dish, particularly in the form of a slow cooker recipe that offers a healthier and more flavorful alternative to the traditional deep-fried version. In this article, we will delve into the rich history of General Tso’s Chicken, followed by a detailed, step-by-step guide to preparing this mouthwatering dish in a slow cooker.

The Ingredients You Need

To prepare General Tso’s Chicken in a slow cooker, you will need the following ingredients:

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the sliced chicken breasts with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken until it is evenly coated with the mixture.
2. Brown the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for three to five minutes, or until the chicken begins to brown. This step helps to lock in the chicken’s juices and adds a layer of flavor to the dish.
3. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Once the chicken is browned, transfer it to the slow cooker. The slow cooker will do the rest of the work, slowly cooking the chicken until it is tender and infused with flavor.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the chicken broth, black bean sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, dark brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are well combined.
5. Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring that all the pieces are evenly coated.
6. Cook the Chicken: Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for four hours, or on high heat for two hours. The slow cooking process will allow the chicken to absorb the sauce’s flavors fully, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, serve it over a bed of steamed rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor and presentation.