The Best General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

In the mood for some deliciously crispy and tangy General Tso’s Chicken? Look no further! Our Best General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and have you coming back for seconds.

With a perfect combination of sweet and spicy flavors, this homemade recipe will rival your favorite takeout joint. Tender chunks of chicken are marinated in a savory sauce, then stir-fried to golden perfection alongside crispy vegetables. The result is a mouthwatering dish that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

The secret to this recipe lies in our carefully crafted sauce. Made with a blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, honey, and a hint of chili, it strikes the perfect balance of flavors. The chicken is then coated in a light batter, ensuring a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to impress your family with a delicious homemade meal, this Best General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is a must-try. Get ready to savor every bite of this irresistible Asian-inspired dish.

The Origins of General Tso’s Chicken

General Tso’s Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish that has its roots in Hunan cuisine. Contrary to popular belief, it is not a traditional Chinese dish, but rather an American invention. The dish is named after General Tso Tsung-tang, a 19th-century Chinese military leader, but it is unclear why it was associated with him.

General Tso’s Chicken first gained popularity in the 1970s when Chinese cuisine started to gain traction in the United States. Today, it is a staple in Chinese-American restaurants and takeout menus across the country. The dish is characterized by its crispy chicken pieces coated in a tangy and slightly sweet sauce, often served with vegetables like broccoli or peppers.

The Best General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Chinese

Servings 4 People

Calories 431 kcal

With a perfect combination of sweet and spicy flavors, this homemade recipe will rival your favorite takeout joint.

Kitchen equipment list

• 1 Cooking Pot
• 1 Mixing bowl

Ingredients

  

123

• ▢ 2 lb Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.
• ▢ ¼ cup Cornstarch: This will be used to coat the chicken and give it a crispy texture.
• ▢ ¼ cup Vegetable oil: You'll need this for frying the chicken.
• ▢ 4 cloves Garlic minced and ¼ tsp of ground ginger: These aromatic ingredients will add depth of flavor to the dish.
• ▢ 4 tbsp Soy sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.
• ▢ 3 tbsp Rice vinegar: This adds a tangy kick to the sauce.
• ▢ 1 tbsp Hoisin sauce: A key ingredient in General Tso's Chicken, it provides a rich and slightly sweet flavor.
• ▢ 2 tbsp Honey: Balances out the flavors and adds a touch of sweetness.
• ▢ ½ tsp Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, these flakes will add heat to the dish.
• ▢ 1 tbsp Green onions: These will be used as a garnish to add freshness and color to the finished dish.

Instructions 

• Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch.
• Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Prepare the sauce: In another bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
• Coat the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Take each marinated chicken piece and coat it in cornstarch, shaking off any excess. Place the coated chicken pieces in the hot oil and cook until golden brown and crispy.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
• Stir-fry the vegetables: In the same skillet, add garlic, ginger, and any vegetables of your choice, such as broccoli or bell peppers.
• Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
• Add the sauce and chicken: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly.
• Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss everything together until the chicken is fully coated in the sauce.
• Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions.
• Serve the Best General Tso's Chicken hot with steamed rice or noodles.

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Tips for Achieving the Perfect General Tso's Chicken

To ensure your General Tso's Chicken turns out perfect every time, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Pat the chicken dry before marinating it. This will help the marinade stick better to the chicken.
2. Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature when frying the chicken. The ideal temperature is around 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the chicken cooks evenly and becomes crispy without being greasy.
3. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some dried chili peppers to the sauce.
4. For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
5. Feel free to customize the vegetables in the dish. Add your favorites or use what you have on hand. Just ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Nutrition

Serving: 146 gCalories: 431 kcalCarbohydrates: 35 gProtein: 19 gFat: 24 gCholesterol: 77 mg

Keyword General Tso’s Chicken

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Variations of General Tso’s Chicken

While the traditional General Tso’s Chicken is made with chicken, there are several variations you can try to switch things up:

1. General Tso’s Tofu: Replace the chicken with extra-firm tofu for a vegetarian version of this dish. Press the tofu before marinating it to remove excess moisture and ensure a crispy texture.
2. General Tso’s Cauliflower: For a low-carb option, substitute cauliflower florets for the chicken. You can either bread and fry the cauliflower or roast it in the oven until crispy.
3. General Tso’s Shrimp: Swap out the chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they cook much faster than chicken.
4. General Tso’s Beef: If you prefer beef, thinly sliced flank steak or sirloin can be used instead of chicken. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as beef cooks faster than chicken.

Feel free to experiment with these variations to find your favorite version of General Tso’s Chicken.

Serving Suggestions for General Tso’s Chicken

General Tso’s Chicken is typically served with steamed rice or noodles. The sauce pairs well with the starch, creating a satisfying and flavorful combination. You can also serve it with fried rice for a heartier meal.

To add some freshness and crunch to the dish, you can garnish it with sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds. If you enjoy spice, serve the dish with extra red pepper flakes or a side of hot chili sauce.

For a complete Chinese-inspired meal, consider serving General Tso’s Chicken alongside other dishes like egg rolls, potstickers, or a vegetable stir-fry.

Now that you know how to make the Best General Tso’s Chicken and have some serving suggestions in mind, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking!

Healthier Alternatives to Traditional General Tso’s Chicken

While General Tso’s Chicken is undeniably delicious, it can be quite heavy and high in calories. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, here are some tips to lighten up the dish:

1. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. They are lower in fat and calories but still provide a good amount of protein.
2. Bake or air-fry the chicken instead of deep-frying it. This significantly reduces the amount of oil used while still achieving a crispy texture.
3. Reduce the amount of sauce used or opt for a lighter sauce. You can achieve a similar flavor by using low-sodium soy sauce, reducing the amount of hoisin sauce, or replacing the honey with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar.
4. Load up on vegetables. Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish to add more fiber and nutrients. Aim for a colorful mix of vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas.
5. Serve with brown rice or cauliflower rice instead of white rice. Brown rice is a whole grain that provides more fiber and nutrients than white rice. Alternatively, cauliflower rice is a low-carb option that mimics the texture of rice.

Remember, even with these modifications, General Tso’s Chicken is still an indulgent dish. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions about General Tso’s Chicken

1. Is General Tso’s Chicken spicy?

General Tso’s Chicken typically has a mild to moderate level of spiciness. The amount of red pepper flakes used can be adjusted to suit your personal taste. If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or dried chili peppers.

1. Can I make General Tso’s Chicken ahead of time?

While General Tso’s Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, you can make some preparations ahead of time. You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the chicken and stir-fry with the vegetables and sauce.

1. Can I freeze General Tso’s Chicken?

General Tso’s Chicken can be frozen, but it is best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately. Cook the chicken until it is just cooked through, then cool it down before freezing. The sauce can also be frozen separately. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the chicken and sauce, then reheat and combine them in a skillet or wok. Keep in mind that the texture of the chicken may be slightly different after freezing and reheating.

1. Can I make General Tso’s Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, you can make General Tso’s Chicken gluten-free by using tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. Ensure that all the other ingredients, such as hoisin sauce and cornstarch, are also gluten-free.

1. What are some side dishes that go well with General Tso’s Chicken?

General Tso’s Chicken pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or fried rice. You can also serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.

Conclusion: Enjoying Homemade General Tso’s Chicken

With our Best General Tso’s Chicken Recipe, you can now recreate the flavors of your favorite takeout dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. This homemade version allows you to adjust the flavors to your liking and make healthier choices without compromising on taste. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.

Remember to follow the step-by-step instructions, use quality ingredients, and have fun experimenting with different variations. The key to achieving the perfect General Tso’s Chicken lies in the balance of flavors, crispy texture, and vibrant presentation. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering Asian-inspired meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!