General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is a beloved dish that brings the delightful flavors of Chinese takeout right to your kitchen. This recipe combines tender chicken, a sweet and spicy sauce, and a satisfying crunch, making it perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or simply enjoying a cozy night in. With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients, you’ll love how simple it is to whip up this favorite at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Prepare this General Tso’s Chicken in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of soy sauce, hoisin, ginger, and garlic creates an irresistible flavor profile that will impress.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to make it as spicy or mild as you like.
• One-Dish Wonder: Make everything in one skillet for easy cleanup—no need for multiple pots and pans.
• Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores well, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping for the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, it’s important to gather your tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smoother cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Whisk
• Platter
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures that your chicken gets crispy without sticking to the pan.
• Whisk: Helps blend sauces smoothly for an even flavor throughout your dish.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop your chicken and vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 lb chicken thighs (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1/2 cup corn starch

For Cooking

• 1/4 cup extra light olive oil (for frying, plus more as needed)

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp minced ginger (from a 2-inch piece of ginger)
• 3 cloves garlic (or 1 Tbsp grated or finely minced)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (or added to taste)
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 5 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
• 3 tbsp rice vinegar (or more to taste)
• 1 1/2 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 4 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tbsp corn starch

For Garnish

• 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)

How to Make General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes.
2. Toss chicken in batches with corn starch, tapping off the excess.
3. Set dredged chicken on a platter and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a separate dish, combine all sauce ingredients.
2. Whisk until fully combined.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Preheat your non-stick skillet with oil over medium heat.
2. Cook chicken in 2 to 3 batches until golden on both sides and cooked through.
3. Remove each batch from the pan and transfer to a bowl.
4. Add more oil as needed but leave at least 1 tablespoon of oil in the pan.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

1. Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to the skillet.
2. Sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring it to a simmer while stirring.
2. Let simmer for about 1 minute to cook off some vinegar taste.
3. Taste the sauce; adjust with more soy sauce or vinegar if desired.
4. Add back in the cooked chicken and toss to coat evenly.
5. Serve hot garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Enjoy your homemade General Tso’s Chicken with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes!

How to Serve General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Serving General Tso’s Chicken is a delightful experience that brings the flavors of Chinese cuisine right to your table. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its sweet and spicy profile.

With Steamed Rice

• White Rice – The classic choice for soaking up the sauce.
• Brown Rice – A healthier alternative that adds a nutty flavor.

With Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Broccoli – Adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color.
• Sauteed Bok Choy – Offers a mild, slightly sweet balance to the dish.

As a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps – Use crisp lettuce leaves to create fresh, low-carb wraps.
• Tortilla Wraps – For a fusion twist, use flour tortillas filled with chicken.

With Salad

• Asian Slaw – A refreshing side with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing.
• Cucumber Salad – Light and tangy, it complements the richness of the chicken.

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How to Perfect General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

For the best results when making this General Tso’s Chicken Recipe, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh ginger and garlic will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Add more red pepper flakes if you prefer extra heat in your sauce.
• Maintain Oil Temperature – Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying so that the chicken cooks evenly and stays crispy.
• Let Sauce Thicken – Simmering the sauce longer will deepen its flavor and improve texture.
• Garnish Thoughtfully – Top with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for added visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with General Tso’s Chicken enhances your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Fried Rice – A flavorful blend of rice, vegetables, and eggs that complements the chicken.
2. Egg Rolls – Crispy on the outside and filled with veggies or meat for an extra crunch.
3. Chow Mein – Stir-fried noodles mixed with vegetables add a satisfying carb option.
4. Miso Soup – A light soup that contrasts nicely with the richness of General Tso’s Chicken.
5. Spring Rolls – Fresh or fried rolls filled with vegetables for a refreshing bite.
6. Sesame Noodles – Noodles tossed in sesame sauce provide a nutty flavor that pairs well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing General Tso’s Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the cornstarch coating: Not coating the chicken in cornstarch may lead to a soggy texture. Make sure to dredge each piece thoroughly for a crispy finish.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much chicken at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in uneven cooking. Fry in smaller batches for perfect browning.
• Neglecting to taste the sauce: Failing to taste your sauce before adding chicken can lead to unbalanced flavors. Adjust soy sauce or vinegar based on your preference.
• Not letting the chicken rest: Serving immediately after frying can make it chewy. Allow the chicken to rest briefly for better texture.
• Ignoring garnishes: Skipping sesame seeds or green onions means missing out on additional flavor and presentation. Always add garnishes for that final touch.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep sauce separate if possible to maintain crispiness.

Freezing General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place chicken on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1 minute until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or oil to a skillet over medium heat, then reheat chicken until hot, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is General Tso’s Chicken Recipe?

General Tso’s Chicken is a popular Chinese takeout dish made with battered and fried chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce.

How do I make General Tso’s Chicken Recipe healthier?

You can use skinless chicken breast instead of thighs and reduce sugar in the sauce. Baking instead of frying is another healthier option.

Can I customize my General Tso’s Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for added nutrition or adjust spice levels by modifying red pepper flakes.

Is General Tso’s Chicken Recipe spicy?

The spiciness depends on how much red pepper flakes you add. You can adjust it based on your tolerance for heat.

Final Thoughts

This General Tso’s Chicken recipe is not only delightful but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices. It makes a comforting meal that rivals any takeout option, so give it a try!