General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is a beloved Chinese takeout dish that brings the perfect combination of sweet and spicy flavors right to your dinner table. Whether for a family gathering, a cozy weeknight meal, or impressing guests, this recipe is versatile and sure to please everyone. With its crispy chicken coated in a rich sauce, it’s a standout dish that you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal time, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and hoisin creates a flavor profile that’s both sweet and spicy.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a celebratory feast, this dish fits right in.
• One-Dish Wonder: You can prepare everything in one skillet, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
• Customizable Ingredients: Adjust the spice level or add vegetables based on your preference.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the perfect General Tso’s Chicken, having the right tools is key. Below are essential tools that will help you make this delicious dish with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cooking tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures even cooking while preventing the chicken from sticking, making it easier to achieve that golden crust.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing the sauce ingredients thoroughly for a consistent flavor throughout.
• Cooking tongs: Ideal for flipping the chicken pieces without damaging their coating.

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!

• 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)
• 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 tsp sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
• 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

1. Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes.
2. Toss chicken in batches with corn starch, 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 the ingredients for your sauce.
2. Whisk together until well combined.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat with oil.
2. Cook chicken in batches until golden brown on both sides and cooked through.
3. Remove cooked chicken from the pan and transfer to a bowl. Repeat with remaining chicken, adding more oil as needed while leaving at least 1 Tbsp oil in the pan.

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. Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and bring it to a simmer while stirring.
2. Let it simmer for about one minute to cook off some vinegar flavor.
3. Taste the sauce; adjust with more soy sauce or rice vinegar if desired.
4. Add back the chicken into the skillet and toss everything together until well coated.
5. Serve garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Enjoy your homemade General Tso’s Chicken! This recipe serves up deliciousness while being easy enough for any home cook to master!

How to Serve General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

General Tso’s Chicken is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice is the perfect base for soaking up the sweet and spicy sauce of General Tso’s Chicken.

On a Bed of Fried Rice

• For a heartier option, serve the chicken on top of fried rice mixed with vegetables, eggs, and soy sauce for added flavor.

Accompanied by Noodles

• Pair with lo mein or chow mein noodles tossed in a light soy sauce for a comforting twist on this classic dish.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Add a side of stir-fried broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for some crunch and color that complements the chicken.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a Chinese-inspired platter by serving General Tso’s Chicken alongside egg rolls, dumplings, and spring rolls for variety.

How to Perfect General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Making the perfect General Tso’s Chicken takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

• Use high-quality chicken: Fresh, boneless chicken thighs provide tender meat that holds up well during frying.
• Pat dry before dredging: Ensure the chicken pieces are dry before coating them in cornstarch to achieve maximum crispiness.
• Control your heat: Maintain medium-high heat while cooking to ensure the chicken browns properly without burning.
• Taste as you go: Adjust the sweetness or spice levels in your sauce by tasting it throughout the cooking process.
• Let it rest: Allow cooked chicken to rest briefly after frying to retain its juices before adding it to the sauce.

Best Side Dishes for General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

When serving General Tso’s Chicken, pairing it with the right side dishes can make your meal complete. Here are some excellent options that complement this flavorful dish perfectly.

1. Fried Rice: A classic option packed with vegetables and protein; it’s easy to prepare and enhances any Asian meal.
2. Egg Rolls: Crispy and filled with vegetables or meat, these make for a great crunchy side.
3. Spring Rolls: Light and fresh, spring rolls add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
4. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of seasonal veggies sautéed quickly maintains their crunch and nutrients.
5. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles tossed in peanut sauce provide a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with spicy chicken.
6. Wonton Soup: A warm bowl of wonton soup adds comfort and balance to your meal with its soothing broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making General Tso’s Chicken can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the cornstarch: Not coating your chicken with cornstarch can lead to a soggy texture. Make sure to dredge the pieces well for that crispy finish.
• Overcooking the sauce: Cooking the sauce for too long can make it overly thick and reduce its flavor. Keep an eye on it and simmer just until fragrant.
• Using high-sodium soy sauce: This can overpower the dish and make it too salty. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to maintain a balanced flavor.
• Ignoring ingredient prep: Not preparing all your ingredients beforehand means you could burn the garlic or ginger while trying to chop them. Have everything ready before you start cooking.
• Not adjusting spice levels: Some may find the red pepper flakes too spicy or not spicy enough. Always adjust according to your taste before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat, then add chicken. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is General Tso’s Chicken Recipe?

General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is a popular Chinese American dish made with battered and fried chicken tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce.

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

Yes, by using gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch, you can easily adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets.

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

You can add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. Adjusting the level of spice is also an option!

Is General Tso’s Chicken Recipe healthy?

While delicious, it is best enjoyed in moderation due to its frying method and added sugars. However, you can bake instead of fry for a healthier version.

What side dishes pair well with General Tso’s Chicken Recipe?

Serve it with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or egg rolls for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

General Tso’s Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences. Whether you’re craving something sweet or spicy, this recipe delivers! Try it out yourself and enjoy experimenting with different variations!