Indulge in a delightful twist on a classic takeout favorite with this easy General Tso Chicken recipe. The combination of crispy chicken, sweet and spicy sauce, and vibrant vegetables makes it a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
How This Became My Go-To
This General Tso Chicken recipe is special because it captures the essence of traditional Chinese-American cuisine while allowing you to create it in the comfort of your own home. The crispy chicken is coated in a rich, sweet-spicy sauce that balances perfectly with the heat from the chili flakes. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
The use of fresh ingredients enhances the flavors, making every bite a burst of satisfaction. Plus, the crunchy texture of the chicken combined with the glossy sauce creates an irresistible appeal. Serve it over fluffy rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal that feels restaurant-quality without the hassle of going out.
Tool Talk
To prepare this dish, you will need several key pieces of equipment to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- A large mixing bowl for marinating the chicken
- A deep frying pan or wok for cooking
- A slotted spoon for lifting the chicken from the oil
- A whisk for mixing the sauce
- A sharp knife and cutting board for dicing vegetables
- A thermometer to check the chicken's doneness. Having these tools ready will help you create a perfectly crispy and flavorful General Tso Chicken.
Secrets I've Discovered Along the Way
For the best results, marinate the chicken for at least thirty minutes to enhance its flavor and tenderness. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; this ensures a crispy coating. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of chicken into it; if it sizzles immediately, it’s good to go. After cooking, allow the chicken to rest briefly to maintain its crispiness. Always ensure that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee it is safe to eat. When handling raw chicken, wash your hands, utensils, and surfaces thoroughly to prevent cross-contamination. If you're sensitive to spice, adjust the amount of chili flakes in the sauce to your liking.
Recipe Card
Ingredients
- one pound boneless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- one cup cornstarch (for coating)
- two tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- one tablespoon soy sauce (for the marinade)
- one tablespoon rice vinegar (for the marinade)
- one tablespoon sugar (for the marinade)
- one tablespoon hoisin sauce (for the sauce)
- one tablespoon soy sauce (for the sauce)
- one teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- two cloves garlic (minced)
- two green onions sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Mix well and let marinate for at least thirty minutes. Cook chicken to internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- After marinating, coat each piece of chicken in cornstarch, shaking off any excess. Cook chicken to internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
- Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, frying until golden brown and cooked through, about five to seven minutes per batch. Cook chicken to internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and let drain on paper towels. Cook chicken to internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- In a separate bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, chili flakes, and minced garlic.
- In the same pan, remove excess oil, leaving about one tablespoon. Add the sauce mixture and bring to a simmer.
- Add the fried chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat thoroughly. Cook for an additional two to three minutes until heated through. Cook chicken to internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
Storage Instructions
Leftover General Tso Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Remix Ideas
Consider adding your favorite vegetables to the dish for added nutrition and flavor. Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas work wonderfully in this recipe. You could also substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option. For a different twist, try using a combination of soy sauce and teriyaki sauce for a unique flavor profile. If you prefer a saucier dish, simply increase the amount of sauce ingredients to coat the chicken more generously.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the General Tso Chicken hot over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and added flavor. A side of steamed broccoli or a mixed vegetable stir-fry complements the dish beautifully, providing a balanced meal that satisfies every palate. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or when entertaining guests.
Saves & Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| The chicken is not crispy. | Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature. Cooking in batches can help maintain crispiness. |
| The sauce is too thick. | If the sauce thickens too much while cooking, add a splash of water or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. |
| The dish is too spicy. | Adjust the amount of chili flakes to your taste. You can also add a little more sugar to balance the heat. |
Answering Your Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may be less juicy.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It reheats well and can be stored for a few days.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.
