Oh, General Tso’s Chicken—what a delightful dish! If you’ve ever been to a Chinese restaurant, you’ve probably seen it on the menu, glowing with that irresistible sweet and spicy sauce. This dish has a special place in my heart (and my stomach!) because it was always a go-to for my family’s takeout nights. The crispy chicken, tangy sauce, and the crunch of green onions just make my taste buds dance! You’re going to love this General Tso’s Chicken recipe because it’s not only incredibly delicious but also super easy to whip up right in your own kitchen. Trust me, once you try making it at home, you’ll never want to go back to takeout!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering General Tso’s Chicken at home! I always recommend using the freshest ingredients for the best flavor, so let’s dive right into it:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed – It’s the star of the show, so make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking!
- 1/2 cup cornstarch – This is what gives the chicken that fabulous crispy coating. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
- 1/4 cup soy sauce – A key ingredient for that savory umami flavor.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar – Adds a lovely tanginess that balances the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon sugar – Just enough to sweeten things up without overpowering the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better, right?
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced – Fresh ginger adds a nice zing and warmth.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – Perfect for frying the chicken to golden perfection.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Adjust this to your spice level preference! A little kick is always a good thing.
- 2 green onions, chopped – For that fresh, crunchy finish on top.
How to Prepare General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to whip up your very own General Tso’s Chicken. I promise it’s easier than you think, and the aroma will have everyone gathering around the kitchen in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic, and ginger. Give it a good stir until the sugar dissolves. This mixture will be your sauce, so make sure it’s well blended! Set it aside.
- Coat your cubed chicken in cornstarch. I like to do this in a large zip-top bag. Just toss the chicken in, seal it up, and shake it around until each piece is nicely coated. This helps create that awesome crispy texture!
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a drop of water sizzles in it! Be careful not to let it get too hot, or your chicken might burn before it cooks through.
- Fry the chicken in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each piece for about 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and cooked all the way through. If you’re worried about cooking times, cut one piece open to check that it’s no longer pink inside.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate. You might want to cover it with foil to keep it warm while you finish the sauce.
- In the same pan, pour in your sauce mixture and bring it to a boil, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom. Let it bubble away for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens up just a bit—the smell will be amazing!
- Add the chicken back to the pan and toss it in the sauce until it’s all coated beautifully. This is where the magic happens!
- Finally, sprinkle with red pepper flakes and chopped green onions before serving. And voila! You’ve got a plate of General Tso’s Chicken that’ll rival your favorite takeout!
Why You’ll Love This General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
- Delicious Flavor: The sweet and spicy sauce combined with crispy chicken creates an irresistible dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
- Healthy Aspects: Made with fresh ingredients and less oil than traditional takeout, this recipe is a guilt-free way to enjoy a beloved classic.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste, whether you prefer it mild or fiery hot!
- Homemade Goodness: There’s something special about making this dish from scratch; it’s not just food, it’s a labor of love that’s sure to warm your heart.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This General Tso’s Chicken keeps well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers!
Tips for Success with General Tso’s Chicken
Now that you’re ready to dive into making this General Tso’s Chicken, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make a world of difference!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger truly elevate the flavor of your sauce. Don’t skimp on these—your taste buds will thank you!
- Don’t Rush the Coating: Make sure each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in cornstarch. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful crispy texture. If you’re worried about clumps, shake off the excess cornstarch before frying.
- Fry in Batches: If you overcrowd the pan, the temperature will drop, and the chicken won’t get that beautiful golden crust. Frying in small batches ensures even cooking and crispiness!
- Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients to suit your palate. If you like it sweeter, add a bit more sugar, or if you want more tang, a splash of extra rice vinegar can do the trick!
- Watch the Heat: Medium heat is your friend here. If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside but remain raw inside. A little patience goes a long way!
- Garnish Generously: Don’t hold back on the green onions! They add a fresh crunch and a pop of color to your dish, making it not just tasty but also visually appealing.
- Serve Immediately: General Tso’s Chicken is best enjoyed fresh out of the pan when it’s crispy. If you need to make it ahead of time, keep the chicken and sauce separate until you’re ready to serve.
Variations of General Tso’s Chicken
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up this General Tso’s Chicken recipe! Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Different Proteins: Swap out the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even beef! Each protein brings its own unique flavor and texture, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
- Veggie-Packed Version: Add a medley of vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the mix. Not only does it add color, but it also boosts the nutrition of the dish!
- Spicy Kick: If you’re a heat seeker, try adding some sliced fresh chili peppers or increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the sauce. You can also drizzle some chili oil over the finished dish for an extra kick!
- Sweet and Sour Twist: For a different flavor profile, mix in a bit of pineapple juice or diced pineapple with the sauce. It adds a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spice!
- Gluten-Free Options: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version without sacrificing flavor. You can also use gluten-free cornstarch to keep it all compliant!
- Asian-Inspired Sides: Serve your General Tso’s Chicken with fried rice, lo mein, or even a simple side of steamed bok choy to elevate the meal and make it a feast!
These variations not only keep things fresh but also let you tailor the dish to your taste buds and dietary needs. So go ahead, have some fun with it, and make this recipe your very own!
Nutritional Information for General Tso’s Chicken
When it comes to delicious food, I always like to keep an eye on the nutritional side too. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from this General Tso’s Chicken recipe. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the ingredients you use, but it gives you a good idea of what you’re enjoying!
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 30g
This dish is packed with protein from the chicken, and thanks to the fresh ingredients, it’s a wholesome choice for a main dish. Whether you’re counting calories or just trying to eat a bit healthier, this General Tso’s Chicken is a satisfying option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Enjoy every bite without the guilt!
FAQ about General Tso’s Chicken
Got questions about making the perfect General Tso’s Chicken? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common questions I get about this delicious dish, along with my answers to help you out!
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before you start cooking. Frozen chicken will not crisp up as nicely, so fresh is always best if you can manage it, but it’s a great option in a pinch!
What if I don’t have rice vinegar?
No worries! You can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar. The flavor might be slightly different, but it will still work well in the sauce. Just keep the proportions the same!
Can I make General Tso’s Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately in advance. Just store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken and toss it in the sauce for that fresh-out-of-the-pan taste!
How spicy is this General Tso’s Chicken?
The spice level really depends on how much red pepper flakes you use. If you like it mild, just use a pinch. For those who love the heat, feel free to add more or even throw in some fresh chili peppers. It’s all about your taste!
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the soy sauce for tamari, and make sure your cornstarch is gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same great flavor without any gluten worries!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for General Tso’s Chicken
Now, if you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), here’s how to store and reheat your delicious General Tso’s Chicken to keep that crispy goodness intact.
First off, let your chicken cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your crispy chicken soggy. Once it’s cool, transfer the chicken to an airtight container. If you have leftover sauce, you can store it separately to keep the chicken crispy longer. Just make sure to seal everything up tightly!
You can store your General Tso’s Chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Just pack the chicken in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty zip-top bag. It should last about 2 months in the freezer. Just remember to label it, so you know what’s waiting for you later!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best method is to reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. This way, you can bring back that crispy texture! Just add a splash of water or a bit of the reserved sauce to help steam it a little and keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through, and you’re good to go! You can also pop it in the microwave, but I recommend using a microwave-safe cover to prevent splatters. Heat it in short bursts, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
And there you have it—simple storage and reheating tips to make sure your General Tso’s Chicken is just as tasty the second time around!
Print
Delicious General Tso’s Chicken Recipe for Cozy Family Nights
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
General Tso’s Chicken is a popular Chinese dish featuring crispy chicken coated in a sweet and spicy sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic, and ginger.
- Coat chicken pieces in cornstarch.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry chicken until golden and cooked through.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- Add sauce mixture to the pan and bring to a boil.
- Add chicken back to the pan and toss to coat.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and green onions before serving.
Notes
- Serve with steamed rice.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh ingredients for best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: General Tso's Chicken, Chinese chicken recipe, stir fry chicken