Plate of General Tso's Chicken garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

General Tso’s Chicken

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General Tso’s Chicken is a beloved Chinese-American classic that tantalizes the taste buds with its perfect balance of crispy chicken, tangy sauce, and a touch of sweetness. After making this dish countless times, I’ve perfected the recipe to deliver an authentic taste that feels like a cozy night in your favorite restaurant, right in your own kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

  1. Incredible Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes creates a rich and savory sauce that envelops tender chicken pieces.
  2. Nutritional Benefits: While it’s indulgent, you can sneak in some vegetables into the dish for added nutrients. Think broccoli or bell peppers for both color and crunch!
  3. Convenience: This recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or quick entertaining.
  4. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving friends, family, or just treating yourself, General Tso’s Chicken is a guaranteed hit.
  5. Personally, I love this recipe because it brings back memories of dining out with my family, and now I can share that joy with my loved ones at home.

Recipe Overview

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Cooking Method: Stir-frying

This dish involves quickly frying and tossing chicken pieces with a homemade sauce, making it simple yet satisfying for any home cook.

My Experience Making This Recipe

When I first tried out General Tso’s Chicken, I stumbled a bit with the sauce balance—it was either too sweet or too salty. However, after adjusting the ratios and experimenting a bit, I found the perfect blend that captures the essence of the dish. This experience taught me the importance of tasting as you go!

How to Make General Tso’s Chicken

Start by prepping your ingredients: cube the chicken, chop the garlic and ginger, and mix the sauce ingredients in a bowl. The cooking process is straightforward; you’ll begin by frying the chicken until golden brown and crispy. Then, quickly stir-fry the aromatics and add the sauce, allowing it to thicken. A key technique here is to ensure your pan is hot enough for a perfect sear, which locks in flavor and texture.

Expert Tips for Success

  1. Use Cornstarch for Crispiness: Coating the chicken in cornstarch before frying creates a light, crispy coating that enhances the dish’s texture.
  2. Batch Cooking: Fry chicken in batches to avoid crowding the pan, ensuring each piece gets that beautiful golden crisp.
  3. Fresh Ingredients Matter: Opt for fresh garlic and ginger rather than powdered for the best flavor infusion in your sauce.
  4. Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less red pepper and taste as you go; you can always add more!
  5. Right Temperature: Making sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F or 175°C) is crucial to achieving that perfect frying temperature.

How to Serve General Tso’s Chicken

Serve this delightful dish over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or with fried rice for an extra treat. Fresh vegetables, like snap peas or broccoli, can be lightly stir-fried and tossed in for added color and nutrition. For presentation, sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for an appealing finish that elevates the dish.

Storage and Reheating Guide

Store leftover General Tso’s Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, package in freezer-safe bags, where it will last for about a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in a skillet over medium heat to retain the crispiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the chicken soggy.

Recipe Variations

  1. Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free cornstarch.
  2. Spice it Up: Add diced chili peppers or a dash of chili paste to the sauce for a more exciting kick.
  3. Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu, following the same frying and cooking process for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
  4. Less Sugar: Adjust the sugar in the sauce to make a lighter version if preferred.

Nutritional Highlights

General Tso’s Chicken provides a tasty source of protein thanks to the chicken. With the addition of vegetables, you can increase vitamin intake while making the meal more filling. Always check for allergens, especially with soy sauce (containing soy and wheat unless gluten-free) and honey (for those with bee allergies).

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  1. Soggy Chicken: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying; cold oil will result in soggy chicken.
  2. Sauce Too Thick: If your sauce thickens too quickly, add a little chicken stock or water and stir well.
  3. Overcooked Chicken: Cook chicken in small batches and remove from heat as soon as it reaches golden brown to keep it juicy.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ingredients ahead of time. Just cook the chicken and combine it with the sauce shortly before serving for the best quality.

  2. What can I use instead of chicken?
    Tofu or shrimp works great as alternatives. Adjust cooking times based on the protein you choose.

  3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
    Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a bit of sriracha sauce to the mix, according to your spice preference.

  4. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
    Absolutely! Just store the chicken and sauce separately for best results, reheating before serving to keep the chicken crispy.

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General Tso’s Chicken

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  • Author: jurgentukur
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian
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Description

A beloved Chinese-American classic featuring crispy chicken tossed in a tangy, sweet sauce, perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
  • 3 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, minced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup broccoli florets (optional)
  • 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (optional)
  • Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prep the ingredients: cube the chicken, chop the garlic and ginger, and mix the sauce ingredients in a bowl.
  2. Coat the chicken in cornstarch.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
  4. Fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy, working in batches if necessary.
  5. Remove chicken and stir-fry garlic and ginger in the same pan until fragrant.
  6. Add the mixed sauce into the pan and let it thicken.
  7. Return chicken to the pan, toss to coat in the sauce, and add optional vegetables if using.
  8. Serve over rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

Notes

Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid soggy chicken. Adjust spice levels to preference.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stir-frying
  • Cuisine: Chinese-American

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