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 recipe offers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice, making it perfect for dinner parties, weeknight meals, or simply when you’re craving comfort food. Enjoy the ease of preparing this dish all in one pan, and impress your family and friends with its bold flavors and authentic taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This General Tso’s Chicken Recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy nights.
• Flavor Packed: With a combination of ginger, garlic, and a zesty sauce, each bite bursts with flavor that will leave you wanting more.
• Homemade Goodness: Enjoy all the deliciousness of takeout without the restaurant price tag or long wait times.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair this chicken with rice or noodles, and customize it with your favorite veggies for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dish is sure to impress both family and guests alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking your General Tso’s Chicken, gather the necessary tools for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from sticking while frying.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the sauce ingredients effortlessly.
• Whisk: Helps blend sauces smoothly, ensuring every flavor is well incorporated.

Ingredients

General Tso’s Chicken is a Chinese takeout go-to. Make it all in one dish in the comfort of your home for a sweet and spicy treat!

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

For 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 corn starch, 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 and whisk to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat a non-stick skillet with oil. Cook chicken in 2 to 3 batches, sautéing until golden on both sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and transfer to a bowl. Repeat with remaining chicken, adding more oil as needed. Leave at least 1 Tbsp oil in the pan.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

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

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add sauce to the skillet and bring it to a simmer while stirring. Let it simmer for 1 minute to cook off some vinegar. Taste the sauce; add more soy sauce or rice vinegar if desired. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat. Serve garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Enjoy your homemade General Tso’s Chicken!

How to Serve General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

General Tso’s Chicken is a delightful dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Serving it creatively can elevate your dining experience.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white rice is a classic choice that complements the sweet and spicy flavors of the chicken.

On a Bed of Broccoli

• Serve General Tso’s Chicken over steamed broccoli for a healthy twist. The broccoli adds color and nutrition.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fun presentation, serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. This adds crunch and freshness to every bite.

With Fried Rice

• Accompany your dish with fried rice for a fulfilling meal. The savory rice balances the sweetness of the chicken.

Garnished with Sesame Seeds

• A sprinkle of sesame seeds offers a nutty flavor and an appealing visual finish to the dish.

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How to Perfect General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

For those looking to enhance their General Tso’s Chicken, here are some helpful tips to ensure success in your cooking.

• Use high-quality chicken – Opt for fresh, boneless chicken thighs for better flavor and tenderness.
• Adjust spice levels – Customize the heat by varying the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preference.
• Ensure proper frying temperature – Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying the chicken to achieve a crispy texture.
• Let it rest – Allowing the fried chicken to rest briefly after cooking helps keep it juicy.
• Experiment with sauce – Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients, adding more sugar or vinegar for sweetness or tang.
• Fresh herbs as garnish – Add fresh cilantro or green onions on top for added flavor and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes can elevate your meal further. Here are some great options to consider when serving General Tso’s Chicken.

1. Fried Rice – A savory option that adds hearty grains and vegetables; make it with peas, carrots, and eggs.
2. Egg Rolls – Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat offer a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
3. Asian Noodles – Lo mein or soba noodles tossed in soy sauce create a deliciously satisfying side.
4. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing salad with cucumbers and sesame dressing provides a cool complement.
5. Steamed Dumplings – Soft dumplings filled with pork or veggies make for an excellent appetizer alongside the main dish.
6. Miso Soup – A light soup enhances the meal’s Asian flair while being warm and comforting.
7. Pickled Vegetables – Tangy pickled veggies can add brightness and contrast against the richness of the chicken.
8. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crisp Brussels sprouts seasoned well make an unexpected yet tasty side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making General Tso’s Chicken can be easy, but several common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for a perfect meal every time.

• Skipping the cornstarch – Not using cornstarch properly can lead to soggy chicken. Make sure to coat each piece thoroughly and shake off the excess before frying.
• Overcrowding the pan – Cooking too much chicken at once causes steaming instead of frying. Fry in batches to achieve that golden, crispy texture.
• Neglecting to taste the sauce – Failing to taste your sauce can result in an unbalanced flavor. Always adjust soy sauce or vinegar according to your preference.
• Not letting the oil heat up – Adding chicken to cold oil will make it greasy. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding chicken for optimal crispiness.
• Forgetting about garnish – Skipping sesame seeds may seem minor, but they add a delightful crunch and flavor. Don’t forget this finishing touch!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Separate into portions for easy defrosting later.

Reheating General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop – Sauté over medium heat with a splash of water or oil until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about General Tso’s Chicken, here are some frequently asked questions that might help!

What is General Tso’s Chicken Recipe?

General Tso’s Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish featuring crispy fried chicken tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce.

How do I make General Tso’s Chicken from scratch?

To make it from scratch, coat chicken in cornstarch, fry it until golden, and toss it in a homemade sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar.

Can I customize my General Tso’s Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! You can adjust spice levels or even add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition.

What should I serve with General Tso’s Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables, creating a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

General Tso’s Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adapt this recipe by adjusting flavors or adding your favorite veggies. It’s a comforting dish perfect for satisfying your cravings. Give it a try and enjoy this homemade takeout classic!