Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch (cornflour)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken broth (or water)
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (cornflour)
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
  • Chopped green onions (scallions) (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, brown the chicken on all sides. This adds flavour and texture. Transfer the browned chicken to the slow cooker.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until smooth.
  4. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Stir to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  6. If you prefer a thicker sauce, transfer the sauce to a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water to create a slurry, add to slow cooker and stir through. Cook on high with lid off for 15-20 mins.
  7. Serve the General Tso's Chicken hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired. This slow cooker general tsos chicken recipe will quickly become a family favorite.