General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is a beloved dish that brings the flavors of Chinese takeout right to your kitchen. This sweet and spicy chicken dish is perfect for a family dinner, game night, or any casual gathering. With its crispy texture and rich sauce, you can easily impress your guests or satisfy your craving for comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of ginger, garlic, and soy sauce creates a deliciously savory taste that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.
- One-Dish Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, which means less cleanup for you after enjoying a fantastic meal.
- Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep for the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather all necessary tools to ensure a smooth experience in the kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick skillet: Ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from sticking, resulting in perfectly cooked pieces every time.
- Whisk: Ideal for mixing the sauce ingredients thoroughly, allowing for a balanced flavor with each bite.
- Platter: Useful for holding dredged chicken before frying, keeping your workspace organized.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 lb chicken thighs (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1/2 cup corn starch
- 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
Garnish
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
How to Make General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes.
- Toss chicken in batches with cornstarch, tapping off the excess.
- Set dredged chicken on a platter and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a separate dish, combine all the ingredients for your sauce.
- Whisk until fully combined.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Preheat a non-stick skillet with oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken in 2 to 3 batches:
- Sauté until golden brown on both sides and cooked through.
- Remove cooked chicken from the pan and transfer it to a bowl.
- Repeat with remaining chicken, adding more oil as needed. Leave at least 1 Tbsp oil in the pan.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
- Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to the skillet.
- Sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
Step 5: Combine Sauce and Chicken
- Pour sauce into the skillet and bring it to a simmer while stirring.
- Let it simmer for about 1 minute to allow flavors to meld.
- Taste the sauce; adjust seasoning by adding more soy sauce or rice vinegar if desired.
- Add cooked chicken back into the skillet; toss to coat well with the sauce.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade General Tso’s Chicken!
How to Serve General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
General Tso’s Chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or simply enjoying a meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
With Steamed Rice
- Steamed white rice: The classic pairing to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Brown rice: A healthier option with added nutrients and fiber.
With Fried Rice
- Vegetable fried rice: Adds colorful veggies and extra flavor, making it a complete meal.
- Egg fried rice: Combines protein and carbs for a satisfying side.
As a Wrap
- Lettuce wraps: Use crisp lettuce leaves to create a fresh and low-carb wrap.
- Tortilla wraps: For a fusion twist, place the chicken in tortillas for easy handheld bites.
With Noodles
- Lo mein noodles: Tossed with vegetables, these noodles complement the chicken perfectly.
- Rice noodles: A gluten-free alternative that pairs well with the sweet and spicy flavors.
As Part of a Platter
- Appetizer platter: Serve small portions of General Tso’s Chicken alongside spring rolls and dumplings for variety.
- Family-style serving: Present in a large bowl for everyone to help themselves, fostering a communal dining experience.
How to Perfect General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
To make your General Tso’s Chicken even better, follow these handy tips for perfection.
- Use high-quality chicken: Fresh chicken thighs provide the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip the cornstarch: It creates a crispy coating that locks in moisture during frying.
- Adjust sauce ingredients: Feel free to tweak the soy sauce and vinegar levels according to your taste preferences.
- Control heat levels: Adjust red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance for the perfect kick.
- Let it rest: Allowing the cooked chicken to rest briefly before serving enhances its juiciness.
- Garnish generously: Adding sesame seeds not only improves presentation but also adds a nice crunch.
Best Side Dishes for General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
Pair your General Tso’s Chicken with these delicious side dishes to create an unforgettable meal. Each option complements the bold flavors of this popular recipe.
- Egg Drop Soup: A light and comforting soup that balances the richness of the chicken.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful mix of seasonal vegetables sautéed in soy sauce adds freshness.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls stuffed with vegetables offer a crunchy texture contrast.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers and sesame oil provides a cool bite.
- Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes for a healthy finger food option.
- Fried Dumplings: Crispy dumplings stuffed with pork or vegetables add an extra savory element to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making General Tso’s Chicken can be easy, but avoiding common mistakes is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too much chicken at once can lead to steaming instead of frying. Cook in smaller batches to achieve a crispy texture.
- Neglecting the Sauce: Skipping the taste test on your sauce can ruin the dish. Always taste it after simmering and adjust with more soy sauce or vinegar as needed.
- Using Cold Chicken: Starting with cold chicken can affect cooking time and texture. Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before frying for even cooking.
- Not Using Enough Oil: Insufficient oil can prevent proper frying. Be generous with oil, adding more as needed to keep the chicken sizzling.
- Ignoring Cornstarch Coating: Not coating the chicken properly with cornstarch may lead to a soggy result. Ensure each piece is evenly coated and tap off any excess.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.
Freezing General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish.
What is General Tso’s Chicken Recipe?
General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is a popular Chinese takeout dish made with crispy chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce.
How can I customize my General Tso’s Chicken?
You can customize your General Tso’s Chicken by adjusting the spice level or adding vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Can I make General Tso’s Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Combine them just before serving for optimal crispiness.
What sides pair well with General Tso’s Chicken?
Serve General Tso’s Chicken with steamed rice or fried rice, along with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Is there a healthier version of General Tso’s Chicken Recipe?
To create a healthier version, consider baking the chicken instead of frying and using less sugar in the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This General Tso’s Chicken Recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors that will impress your family and friends. It’s easy to customize based on your taste preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today for a delicious homemade version that rivals your favorite takeout!
General Tso’s Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Savor the irresistible flavors of General Tso’s Chicken, a beloved dish that brings the essence of Chinese takeout right into your home kitchen. This sweet and spicy stir-fry features crispy chicken pieces coated in a flavorful sauce made with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this comforting meal, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With customizable spice levels and easy cleanup, it’s not only delicious but also convenient to prepare. Impress your guests or treat yourself to this classic dish that combines convenience with rich taste.
Ingredients
- 2 lb chicken thighs (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1/2 cup corn starch
- 1/4 cup extra light olive oil (for frying)
- 2 tbsp minced ginger
- 3 cloves garlic
- 5 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 3 tbsp rice vinegar
- 4 tbsp granulated sugar
Instructions
- Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes and coat with cornstarch.
- Combine the sauce ingredients: ginger, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar.
- Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat; fry chicken in batches until golden.
- Sauté ginger and garlic in the skillet until fragrant.
- Pour in the sauce, simmer briefly, then return chicken to skillet and toss to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
