General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is a beloved dish that combines sweet and spicy flavors, making it a staple in Chinese takeout dining. With this recipe, you can enjoy this mouthwatering dish right at home. It’s excellent for family dinners, gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a delicious homemade meal. The ease of preparation and the delightful taste truly set this recipe apart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, ginger, and spices gives every bite a burst of flavor.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
• Healthier Option: Make your own sauce to control sugar and sodium levels compared to takeout versions.
• One-Dish Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with everything cooked in one skillet.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this General Tso’s Chicken Recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Prevents sticking and allows for easy cooking of the chicken without excessive oil.
• Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining ingredients for the sauce and tossing the chicken with cornstarch efficiently.

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
• 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

For Garnish

• 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional for garnish)

How to Make General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes.
2. Toss chicken in batches with cornstarch, tapping off the excess.
3. Set dredged chicken on a platter and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a separate dish, combine all ingredients for your sauce.
2. Whisk until fully combined.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet with oil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook chicken in 2 to 3 batches until golden on both sides and cooked through.
3. Remove each batch from the pan and transfer to a bowl; repeat with remaining chicken, adding more oil as needed.
4. Leave at least 1 Tbsp oil in the pan after cooking.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

1. Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to the skillet.
2. Sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Add the prepared sauce to the skillet.
2. Bring it to a simmer while stirring; let it simmer for about 1 minute.
3. Taste the sauce; adjust soy sauce or rice vinegar if desired.
4. Add cooked chicken back into the pan and toss well to coat everything in sauce.
5. 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 versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Over Steamed Rice

• White or Brown Rice: A classic choice, steaming rice allows it to soak up the delicious sauce from the chicken.
• Fried Rice: For added flavor, serve with vegetable or egg fried rice for a heartier option.

With Noodles

• Lo Mein: Toss General Tso’s Chicken with lo mein noodles for a satisfying, carb-loaded dish.
• Rice Noodles: Use rice noodles for a lighter alternative that pairs well with the sweet and spicy flavors.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens: Serve on top of mixed greens for a fresh, crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
• Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy cabbage slaw adds texture and balances the richness of the dish.

As an Appetizer

• Small Bites: Serve smaller portions as an appetizer for parties or gatherings, garnished with sesame seeds.
• Skewers: Thread pieces onto skewers for fun finger food that’s easy to share and enjoy.

With Dipping Sauce

• Extra Sauce on the Side: Offer additional sauce as a dipping option for those who love extra flavor.

How to Perfect General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Perfecting your General Tso’s Chicken recipe ensures that every bite is delicious. Here are some helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic enhance the flavors significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches to maintain high heat, ensuring crispy chicken rather than steamed.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the spiciness by varying red pepper flakes according to your preference.
• Let Sauce Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps meld flavors together beautifully and thickens it nicely.
• Marinate Chicken (Optional): For deeper flavor, marinate chicken in soy sauce and ginger before cooking.
• Garnish Thoughtfully: Adding sesame seeds not only looks appealing but also adds a nice crunch.

Best Side Dishes for General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with General Tso’s Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fried Rice: This savory dish complements the sweet and spicy flavors perfectly.
2. Egg Rolls: Crunchy and filled with vegetables, they add texture and variety.
3. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy green side that balances out the richness of the chicken.
4. Spring Rolls: Light and crispy, these are perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
5. Sesame Noodles: Cold noodles tossed in sesame dressing offer a refreshing contrast.
6. Dumplings: Whether steamed or fried, dumplings make a satisfying accompaniment.
7. Miso Soup: A warm broth that pairs well with Asian dishes for a comforting touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making General Tso’s Chicken, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch for.

• Skipping the cornstarch – Not coating the chicken in cornstarch can result in a soggy texture. Be sure to dredge each piece well before frying.
• Overcrowding the pan – Adding too much chicken at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Fry in small batches for the best results.
• Ignoring the sauce balance – Forgetting to taste and adjust your sauce can lead to overpowering flavors. Always taste and tweak soy sauce or vinegar according to your preference.
• Cooking on high heat – Using high heat throughout can burn the garlic and ginger, making them bitter. Cook these ingredients on medium heat for optimal flavor.
• Not letting it simmer – Skipping the simmering step means missing out on deepening the sauce’s flavor. Allow it to simmer briefly to enhance taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover General Tso’s Chicken in an airtight container.
• item It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

• item You can freeze General Tso’s Chicken for up to 3 months.
• item Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.

Reheating General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

• item Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
• item Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• item Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is General Tso’s Chicken Recipe?

General Tso’s Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish featuring crispy chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce.

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

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and check other ingredients like hoisin sauce for gluten content.

How do I customize my General Tso’s Chicken Recipe?

You can add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra nutrition or adjust spice levels by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes.

Is General Tso’s Chicken Recipe healthy?

While it’s higher in calories due to frying, you can make it healthier by using less oil or baking the chicken instead of frying.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts. Just be mindful that they may cook faster than thighs.

Final Thoughts

This General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is not only easy but also incredibly delicious. The sweet and spicy flavors make it a favorite among many! Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level. Give it a try and enjoy homemade takeout!