How to Make Spicy Orange General Tso’s Chicken in the Slow Cooker
Step 1: Lightly Brown the Chicken
Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then toss them in cornstarch for a light coating. In a skillet over medium-high heat, quickly brown the chicken in oil. This step isn’t required, but it adds great texture and flavor to the final dish.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes, and orange zest.
Step 3: Add to the Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned chicken to your slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over the top. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cornstarch slurry. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens to a luscious, sticky consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious chicken over:
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Steamed white rice or jasmine rice
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Brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist
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Stir-fried vegetables or steamed broccoli
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Noodles for a fun take on General Tso’s lo mein
Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or even extra orange zest for a fresh pop of flavor.
Tips & Variations
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For extra spice: Add a chopped fresh chili or more red pepper flakes.
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Make it crispy: Brown the chicken longer in the skillet or finish under the broiler for a crispy edge.
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Add veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots can be added during the last hour of cooking.
Final Thoughts
The Slow Cooker Spicy Orange General Tso’s Chicken brings all the excitement of a restaurant-quality dish into your own kitchen with minimal effort. It’s bold, balanced, and beautifully comforting—perfect for those who love complex flavors but don’t have hours to spend at the stove. With tender chicken and a sauce that’s the perfect mix of spicy, sweet, and citrusy, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
One bite and you’ll see why this dish earns the “heavenly homemade takeout” title—no delivery required.
