General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is a beloved Chinese takeout dish that you can easily recreate in your own kitchen. This recipe combines tender chicken with a sweet and spicy sauce, making it a delicious option for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This General Tso’s Chicken Recipe can be made in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The balance of sweet and spicy flavors makes this dish a standout. Your taste buds will thank you!
- Homemade Goodness: Skip the takeout! Making this dish at home ensures fresh ingredients and custom flavor profiles.
- Versatile: Serve it over rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal that suits various dietary preferences.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a party, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious General Tso’s Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Platter for chicken
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick skillet: This prevents the chicken from sticking, allowing for easy cooking and cleanup.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the sauce ingredients thoroughly without any spills.
- Whisk: Ensures your sauce is smooth by blending all components well.
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
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
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.
- Whisk to combine until smooth.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Preheat a non-stick skillet with oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken in 2 to 3 batches, sautéing until golden on both sides and cooked through.
- Remove each batch from the pan and transfer to a bowl. Repeat with remaining chicken, adding more oil as needed if necessary.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
- Leave at least 1 Tbsp oil in the pan.
- Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes; sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Add the prepared sauce to the skillet and bring it to a simmer while stirring continuously.
- Let it simmer for about 1 minute to reduce acidity from vinegar slightly.
- Taste the sauce; add more soy sauce or rice vinegar if desired.
- Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
- 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 flavorful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative ideas for serving this delicious recipe.
Over Steamed Rice
- Serve the chicken on a bed of fluffy steamed rice to absorb the sweet and spicy sauce.
With Fried Rice
- Pair it with fried rice for a delightful combination of flavors. The added vegetables and eggs complement the chicken perfectly.
In Lettuce Wraps
- For a lighter option, serve the chicken in crispy lettuce leaves. This makes for a refreshing and healthy bite.
With Noodles
- Toss the chicken with stir-fried noodles for a heartier meal. Add some veggies for extra color and nutrition.
As Part of a Platter
- Create an Asian-inspired platter with General Tso’s Chicken, spring rolls, and dumplings for a feast that’s perfect for sharing.
Garnished with Green Onions
- Top your dish with sliced green onions to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
How to Perfect General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
Achieving the perfect General Tso’s Chicken requires attention to detail in both preparation and cooking methods. Here are some tips to help you master this dish.
- Use high-quality chicken: Opt for fresh, boneless chicken thighs, as they remain tender during cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Adjust sauce ingredients: Feel free to tweak the soy sauce or vinegar based on your taste preference for sweetness or tanginess.
- Let it rest before serving: Allowing the cooked chicken to sit for a few minutes helps retain moisture and flavor.
- Experiment with spices: Add more red pepper flakes if you like extra heat or consider adding other spices like five-spice powder for depth.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy it hot off the stove for the best flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
General Tso’s Chicken pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its unique flavor profile. Consider these options when planning your meal.
- Steamed Broccoli: A classic choice that adds vibrant color and nutrients.
- Vegetable Egg Rolls: Crunchy on the outside with savory fillings that balance the sweetness of the chicken.
- Fried Rice: Flavorful rice mixed with vegetables, eggs, and soy sauce creates a satisfying combination.
- Sesame Noodles: Cold noodles dressed in sesame sauce offer a refreshing contrast to hot chicken.
- Cucumber Salad: A light salad with cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame seeds provides crunch and acidity.
- Miso Soup: Warm miso soup is comforting and pairs well with Asian flavors.
- Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles can cut through the richness of the dish, enhancing each bite.
- Quinoa Salad: A nutritious alternative that brings protein and fiber along with fresh herbs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making General Tso’s Chicken can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Avoid these mistakes to ensure a delicious dish!
- Using the wrong chicken cuts – Opt for chicken thighs over breasts for juicier and more flavorful results. Thighs hold up better during cooking.
- Skipping the cornstarch coating – This step adds crispiness. Make sure to coat your chicken pieces evenly and tap off excess cornstarch before frying.
- Overcooking the chicken – Keep an eye on your chicken as it cooks. Remove it from the pan once it’s golden and cooked through to prevent dryness.
- Neglecting sauce adjustments – Taste your sauce while cooking! Adjust with more soy sauce or rice vinegar as needed for balance in flavor.
- Not letting the sauce simmer – Allow the sauce to simmer briefly to enhance its flavors. This step is crucial for a well-rounded taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label with date for reference.
Reheating General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
- Stovetop – Add chicken to a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the General Tso’s Chicken Recipe that may help clarify any doubts.
What makes General Tso’s Chicken so popular?
General Tso’s Chicken is loved for its perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, making it an irresistible dish that satisfies many cravings.
Can I customize my General Tso’s Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! You can adjust spice levels by adding more or less red pepper flakes or include vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for added nutrition.
How can I make General Tso’s Chicken gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative available at grocery stores.
What should I serve with General Tso’s Chicken?
This dish pairs excellently with steamed rice or fried rice. Consider adding a side of stir-fried vegetables for balance.
Final Thoughts
This General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers great versatility. You can customize it according to your tastes and dietary needs while enjoying that comforting takeout flavor right at home. Give it a try today!
General Tso’s Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Experience the irresistible flavors of General Tso’s Chicken right in your kitchen with this quick and easy recipe. This popular Chinese takeout dish features tender chicken pieces coated in a crispy cornstarch crust, tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this homemade version guarantees freshness and allows you to customize the spice level to suit your taste. Serve it over fluffy rice or alongside vibrant vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to impress. Elevate your dinner routine with this delightful dish that captures the essence of traditional Chinese cuisine.
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
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 5 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 3 tbsp rice vinegar
- 4 tbsp granulated sugar
Instructions
- Cut chicken into cubes, coat with cornstarch, and set aside.
- Mix sauce ingredients: ginger, garlic, water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar; whisk until smooth.
- Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches until golden and cooked through.
- Remove chicken and sauté garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes until fragrant.
- Add prepared sauce to the skillet; simmer briefly before adding back the chicken to coat evenly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
