General Tso Chicken is a beloved dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many around the globe. This Chinese-American classic features crispy, batter-fried chicken pieces tossed in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce that is simply irresistible. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a go-to option for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. Its appeal lies not only in its delicious taste but also in its eye-catching presentation, making it a perfect dish for impressing family and friends.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This General Tso Chicken recipe is a culinary delight that balances rich flavors with an easy-to-follow cooking process. The crispy chicken enveloped in a sweet and spicy sauce is sure to tickle your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward and quick, taking less than an hour from start to finish. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy a comforting meal that can be customized to fit various dietary preferences.
Tips and Tricks
- Marinating the Chicken: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for infusing flavor and tenderizing the meat.
- Double Frying: For an extra crunchy texture, consider double frying the chicken. Fry once until lightly golden, let rest, and fry again for a few minutes until crispy.
- Prepping the Sauce: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This can save you time when you’re ready to cook.
- Use Cornstarch: For the best frying results, coat the chicken pieces in cornstarch instead of flour. This creates a lighter, crispier crust.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance to enhance flavor. The sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to shake or stir it before using. Cooked General Tso Chicken can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add more chili paste or fresh chilies to the sauce for those who enjoy a spicier experience.
- Baked Option: For a healthier twist, bake the chicken instead of frying. Coat it in the sauce after baking for a lighter version.
How to Serve
Serve your General Tso Chicken over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or fried rice to soak up that delicious sauce. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an appealing presentation. Adding a side of sautéed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables will provide a pop of color and nutrition.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your General Tso Chicken with a refreshing jasmine tea or a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. For dessert, consider serving a light fruit salad or mochi to cleanse the palate after the flavorful meal.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through or reheat in a skillet over medium heat to help retain that crispy texture.
Equipment Needed
- Wok or deep frying pan for frying
- Mixing bowls for marinating and preparing sauce
- Meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked properly
- Whisk for mixing the sauce
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, replace chicken with tofu, and use a plant-based egg substitute for the batter. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch instead of regular flour. Always check labels for allergens, especially if you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring, consider adding fresh snap peas or asparagus to the dish for added crunch and seasonal flavor. In the fall, roasted pumpkin can be a delightful addition. Adjust your vegetables based on what’s fresh and in season for the best taste.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to the dish.
- What can I use instead of soy sauce? Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative, or you can try coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
- How long does it take to cook the chicken? It usually takes about 5-7 minutes per batch, depending on the size of the chicken pieces.
How To Make General Tso Chicken
General Tso Chicken
General Tso Chicken is a beloved dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many around the globe.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust to taste)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and half of the minced garlic. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Batter: In a shallow dish, place the remaining cornstarch. In another dish, beat the eggs.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of marinated chicken into the cornstarch, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs.
- Heat the Oil: In a wok or deep frying pan, heat enough vegetable oil to submerge the chicken pieces over medium-high heat.
- Fry the Chicken: Fry the chicken in batches, avoiding overcrowding, until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sugar, hoisin sauce, chili paste, and the remaining garlic and ginger.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: In the same pan, remove excess oil and add the sauce mixture. Bring to a simmer and then add the fried chicken, tossing to coat evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the General Tso Chicken hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 419Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 190mgSodium 1288mgCarbohydrates 31gFiber 2gSugar 10gProtein 41g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making General Tso Chicken at home is not only rewarding but also allows you to customize the dish to your tastes. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that your family will love. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this dish is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish, and watch as it becomes a favorite in your household!