Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken

If you’re in need of a convenient, delicious meal that the whole family will love, look no further than Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken. This popular Chinese-American dish has made its way into homes across the globe, celebrated for its sweet and tangy flavor, crispy chicken, and vibrant sauce. The best part? You can achieve this delightful taste in the comfort of your own kitchen, with minimal effort!

This dish is perfect for any time of year, whether you’re hosting a family dinner in the fall, enjoying a casual get-together in the summer, or cozying up with a comforting meal in the winter. Readers will love the simplicity of this recipe, the convenience of a slow cooker, and the chance to create a classic dish that rivals your favorite takeout!

Why You Will Love This Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

• Easy and Quick: This recipe allows you to throw everything into the crockpot, set the timer, and walk away. Perfect for busy weeknights!
• Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank.
• Family Favorite: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it an ideal choice for families.
• Health Benefits: Made with chicken and fresh ginger, this recipe provides protein and adds a twist of nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
• Unique Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, hoisin, ginger, and garlic creates a rich taste that is sure to impress your guests.

Now that you know why this Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken is a must-try, let’s dive into the ingredients needed to make this fantastic dish!

Ingredients Needed for Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken

To prepare your Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• Green onions, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Possible substitutes:

• Chicken thighs can be replaced with boneless chicken breasts or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Hoisin sauce can be swapped with barbecue sauce if needed.
• Rice vinegar can be substituted with apple cider vinegar for a similar zing.

Step-by-Step Directions to Make Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken

1. Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot: Start by adding your boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the bottom of your slow cooker.

2. Mix the sauce ingredients: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Then add the minced garlic and grated ginger.

3. Pour the mixture over the chicken: Pour this flavorful sauce over the chicken in the crockpot, ensuring each piece is well-coated.

4. Cover and cook: Secure the lid on your crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred.

5. Shred the chicken: Once cooked, take the chicken out of the crockpot and use two forks to shred it into pieces.

6. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this slurry back into the sauce in the crockpot. Let it thicken for about 10 minutes.

7. Return the chicken: Add the shredded chicken back into the crockpot, making sure to coat it in the thickened sauce.

8. Garnish and serve: Serve the dish garnished with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that authentic touch!

Extra cooking tips:

• For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight before cooking.
• Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken

• Mistakes to avoid: Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be tender, not mushy.
• Extra cooking hacks: If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken – just pour the sauce over it and heat through.
• Time-saving tricks: Meal prep your sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for quick assembly later.

How to Serve Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken

Serving Suggestions

• Serve your Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
• Presentation ideas: Pair it with a side of spring rolls or dumplings for an authentic Chinese banquet feel.

Drinks or Side Dishes That Match Well

• To complement the flavors, consider serving it with a refreshing iced green tea or a light beer.
• Other side dishes that match nicely include steamed broccoli, fried rice, or a simple cucumber salad.

How to Store Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken

• Counter: It’s best to serve this dish freshly made, but you can keep it out for a couple of hours if serving at a gathering.
• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze the dish for up to three months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers.

Reheating Instructions

• To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.
• If the sauce appears thick after storing, you can add a splash of water to loosen it up while reheating.

Variations of Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken

Flavor Swaps

• For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce before cooking.
• You can also use different protein options such as shrimp or beef to customize this dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

• If you prefer a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Swap out the brown sugar for honey or maple syrup for a naturally sweet flavor.

Seasonal Twists

• In the summer, add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or corn for a fresh twist.
• During the winter, feel free to mix in hearty vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes.

FAQs About Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken

1. Can I freeze Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken?
   Yes, you can freeze it for up to three months. Make sure to store it in airtight containers!

2. Can I make Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken ahead of time?
   Absolutely! This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer.

3. What can I use instead of hoisin sauce?
   You can use barbecue sauce or make a homemade version using soy sauce and sugar.

4. Is it possible to use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
   Yes, chicken breasts work well too, but the cooking time may be slightly reduced.

5. Can I make this meal in an Instant Pot instead of a crockpot?
   Yes, you can cook it on high pressure for about 10-12 minutes in an Instant Pot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken

• Using the wrong cut of chicken: Chicken thighs stay tender and juicy, while breasts may dry out.
• Failing to measure ingredients accurately: Too much soy sauce can overpower the flavor; always measure carefully.
• Not allowing time for the sauce to thicken: Patience is key for the best texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information of Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken

This dish is relatively healthy when made at home, offering protein from chicken along with the beneficial properties of garlic and ginger. Each serving usually contains around 300-400 calories, depending on the portion size and any sides served.

Pairing Ideas: What Goes Well With Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken

• To round out your meal, consider pairing with vegetable fried rice, steamed buns, or a mixed greens salad.
• For more dinner ideas, explore other recipes on our site such as honey garlic chicken or sesame tofu.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Easy Crockpot General Tso’s Chicken is a delicious, hassle-free dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its blend of flavors and ease of preparation make it a winner in any household. Try this dish today and experience a taste of Chinese-American cuisine right in your own home! Don’t forget to share it with family and friends – they will thank you!