General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Crispy, tangy, sweet, and just the right amount of spicy, General Tso’s Chicken is the ultimate takeout-inspired dish you can make at home. This beloved Chinese-American classic features bite-sized chicken pieces fried to perfection and coated in a rich, flavorful sauce that hits all the right notes.

this Recipe

The first time I made General Tso’s Chicken, I was amazed at how easy it was to recreate the magic of restaurant-style cooking in my own kitchen. With a few pantry staples and a little prep, you can whip up a dish that’s just as delicious (if not better!) than takeout.

Let’s dive into why you’ll want to add this recipe to your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This General Tso’s Chicken

This dish is more than just a weeknight dinner; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll love making and eating General Tso’s Chicken:

• Crispy Perfection: The chicken is coated in a light, crispy batter that holds up beautifully under the sauce.
• Bold Flavors: Sweet, tangy, savory, and spicy, the sauce delivers a flavor-packed punch in every bite.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward, and with a little prep work, you’ll have it ready in under 30 minutes.
• Better Than Takeout: Homemade means you control the ingredients, making it fresher and often healthier than what you’d get from delivery.

Whether it’s a family dinner or a special treat for yourself, this dish is sure to be a favorite. Let’s look at the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The key to a great General Tso’s Chicken is in the balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• Chicken Thighs or Breast: Boneless, skinless thighs are ideal for their juiciness, but chicken breast works well too. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Cornstarch and All-Purpose Flour: A blend of these creates a crispy coating for the chicken.
• Eggs: Help bind the coating to the chicken.

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: The base of the sauce, adding a savory, umami flavor. Use low-sodium if preferred.
• Hoisin Sauce: Provides a rich, slightly sweet depth of flavor.
• Rice Vinegar: Adds a tangy kick that balances the sweetness.
• Brown Sugar: Sweetens the sauce for that signature taste.
• Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger bring bold, aromatic notes to the dish.
• Red Chili Flakes: Optional but great for adding a spicy kick.

Additional Ingredients:

• Green Onions: For garnish and a touch of freshness.
• Sesame Seeds: Add a nutty flavor and crunch to the finished dish.

Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to cook!

How to Make General Tso’s Chicken

Making General Tso’s Chicken at home is easier than you think. Follow these steps to achieve restaurant-quality results:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Coat the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, and a pinch of salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then into the cornstarch mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
2. Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
2. Create the Sauce: Add soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and a splash of water. Stir to combine, then simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Adjust Spice: If desired, stir in red chili flakes for a spicier kick.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Toss the Chicken: Return the fried chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat each piece evenly in the sauce.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Serve hot over steamed white rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), here’s how to store and reheat your General Tso’s Chicken:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze the chicken separately from the sauce for up to 2 months. Combine and reheat when ready to eat.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crispiness of the chicken. Add a splash of water if the sauce needs to loosen up.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this dish is its adaptability. Here are some ways to customize it:

• Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for tofu or cauliflower. Both take on the sauce beautifully and make for a satisfying alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch instead of flour for a gluten-free version.
• Extra Veggies: Add sautéed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers to the dish for added nutrition and color.
• Less Sweet: Reduce the amount of brown sugar for a tangier, less sweet sauce.
• Spicier: Add fresh chili peppers or extra red chili flakes for more heat.

Feel free to experiment to suit your taste preferences!

Whether you’re recreating your favorite takeout dish or exploring new flavors, General Tso’s Chicken is a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again. With its irresistible combination of crispy chicken and bold sauce, it’s bound to become a household favorite.

Now it’s your turn to give it a try—grab your wok, gather your ingredients, and let the deliciousness begin!

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