Name: General Tso's Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 cup cornstarch; oil for frying (enough to cover chicken at least halfway through); 1 tbsp grated ginger; 1.5 tbsp grated garlic; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, or to taste; 3/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 2 tbsp hoisin sauce; 5 tbsp soy sauce; 4 tbsp sugar, or to taste; 1 tbsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp water, make into a slurry; 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil

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Foolproof General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

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When you think of General Tso’s Chicken, what likely comes to mind is that perfect balance of crunch, sweetness, and a hint of spice. This iconic dish has become a staple in Chinese takeout, beloved for its crispy chicken pieces coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce. Imagine dipping into a plate of succulent, tender chicken that crackles delightfully with each bite, coated in a sauce that strikes just the right balance between savory and sweet. It’s the kind of dish that can transform an ordinary weeknight dinner into something special, and the best part? You can recreate this restaurant favorite in your own kitchen!

The first time I attempted making General Tso’s Chicken, I was hesitant — the thought of frying chicken and juggling flavors felt daunting. But to my surprise, this recipe is not only straightforward but delivers on all the delicious promises of the takeout version. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering dish. It’s comforting, fulfilling, and will have everyone clamoring for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s whip up a batch of delicious General Tso’s Chicken together!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make General Tso’s Chicken
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
General Tso’s Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: A minimal prep time of just 5 minutes makes this recipe perfect for busy evenings.
Irresistible Flavor: It boasts a delectable blend of ginger, garlic, and a kick of spice that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors and glossy sauce make for a stunning presentation.
Flexible Serving: Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a weekend feast, this dish is versatile enough for any occasion.
Diet-Friendly Options: Adjust the recipe for gluten-free or health-conscious diners with easy swaps!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs: This cut is juicy and tender, ideal for frying. You can substitute with chicken breasts if preferred.
1 cup cornstarch: Essential for that crispy coating. You can use potato starch for a similar effect.
Oil for frying: Any neutral oil works, such as canola or vegetable oil. Ensure you have enough to cover chicken pieces halfway.
1 tbsp grated ginger: Fresh ginger adds a warm sweetness and a touch of heat.
1.5 tbsp grated garlic: Garlic is key for that aromatic flavor characteristic of stir-fried dishes.
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes: Adjust to your heat preference; more for extra spice, less for a milder flavor.
3/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth: This adds depth to the sauce. You can use low-sodium broth for a healthier option.
2 tbsp rice vinegar: For a bit of tang; apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch.
2 tbsp hoisin sauce: This sweet and savory sauce gives a unique flavor. Substitute with sweet bean sauce if necessary.
5 tbsp soy sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness if desired.
4 tbsp sugar: Balances the savory aspects; adjust according to your taste.
1 tbsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp water: This slurry thickens your sauce for a beautiful finish.
1 tbsp toasted sesame oil: Adds a nutty, aromatic finish, enhancing the overall flavor.

How to Make General Tso’s Chicken

Optional Marinade: For an extra flavor kick, toss the chicken pieces in a marinade made from 5 tablespoons soy sauce, a splash of rice wine or water, along with salt and pepper. Let it sit for about 10–15 minutes to enhance tenderness and flavor.
Coat the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken in a bowl or zip-top bag with 1 cup of cornstarch. Shake or toss until each piece is evenly coated. Be sure to press the cornstarch onto the chicken for better adhesion, then shake off any excess.
Heat the Oil: In a wok or deep pan, heat 1–2 inches of oil until it reaches 350–375°F (medium-high). Fry the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan, for about 5–7 minutes until the pieces turn golden brown and crispy. Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack for a moment.
Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: For an even crunchier texture, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then fry a second time for 1–2 minutes. This creates delightful craggy bits that hold onto the sauce perfectly.
Prepare the Sauce: While your chicken is frying, whisk together the broth, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and sugar in a bowl, keeping the ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes, and cornstarch slurry aside for now.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan (drain most of the oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon), sauté the grated ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes over medium-low heat for 30–60 seconds until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn these precious components!
Simmer the Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture into the pan, bringing it to a simmer. Quickly whisk the cornstarch slurry before adding it to the sauce. Cook for about 2–4 minutes, stirring regularly until it thickens to a shiny coating consistency, thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Carefully add the fried chicken back to the pan, tossing gently but quickly to coat all pieces in that delicious sauce. Drizzle in the toasted sesame oil, giving everything one final toss before removing from heat.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your General Tso’s chicken immediately over a bed of fluffy rice, and if you like, garnish with sesame seeds and sliced scallions. For a classic touch, consider pairing it with steamed or stir-fried broccoli.

Storing & Reheating

To store any leftovers, let the chicken cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you wish to freeze it, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or freezer bags, and it can last for up to 3 months. When reheating, a quick stint in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes will help maintain its crispiness. Just keep in mind that the texture may soften slightly, so serving it fresh is best!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcrowding the frying pan, as this can lead to soggy chicken and uneven cooking. Fry in batches instead.
For an ultra-crispy coating, double frying is key. This extra step ensures that the pieces remain crunchy even when coated in sauce.
If you’re looking to adjust the sweetness or spiciness of your dish, feel free to play around with the sugar and red pepper flakes in the sauce until you find your perfect balance.
Using cold chicken straight from the fridge helps it fry up crispy perfectly. Tossing in the cornstarch while the chicken is cold can elevate the crunch factor.
Make-ahead tip: You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just warm it up before tossing in the fried chicken for a quicker weeknight meal.

Dive into this delightful adventure of creating your very own General Tso’s Chicken at home. The irresistible flavors are bound to amaze not just you, but your loved ones as well. This dish is not only about food; it’s about bringing a piece of comfort and joy to your table.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used in place of thighs. However, thighs tend to be juicier and more tender, providing a better texture since they hold up well to frying. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them to prevent dryness.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To achieve a gluten-free version of General Tso’s Chicken, you can use gluten-free soy sauce, such as tamari, instead of regular soy sauce. Additionally, make sure the hoisin sauce is also gluten-free and substitute cornstarch as needed.

What should I serve with General Tso’s Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice, jasmine rice, or brown rice. For added health benefits, consider serving it alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or stir-fried bell peppers for a vibrant meal.

Can I make General Tso’s Chicken in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately. When ready to serve, just fry the chicken and stir it quickly with the sauce for a warm and satisfying meal. Just remember, the chicken may lose some crispiness when reheated after storage.

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