General Tso’s Chicken: Crispy, Sweet, and Spicy
Ever crave that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors from your favorite takeout? Finding a recipe that truly delivers restaurant-quality General Tso’s Chicken at home can feel impossible.
Imagine biting into soggy, bland chicken that falls short of the crispy, flavorful experience you love. Don’t settle for less when you can easily recreate the magic of this classic dish in your own kitchen.
This General Tso’s Chicken recipe is your answer! With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll achieve crispy chicken coated in a bold, sticky sauce that rivals your favorite takeout spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Better than Takeout: Enjoy restaurant-quality flavor without leaving your kitchen.
- Crispy Perfection: The chicken is double-coated for a golden, crunchy texture.
- Balanced Flavor: The sauce is sweet, tangy, and has just the right amount of heat.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level and sweetness to suit your taste.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, it’s accessible to cooks of all levels.
Required Kitchen Tools
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Large skillet or wok
- Tongs or a slotted spoon
- Meat thermometer
- Paper towels
Ingredients for General Tso’s Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup corn starch
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
- 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon corn starch
Variations for General Tso’s Chicken
- Make it Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of Sriracha.
- Add Veggies: Toss in broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Use Chicken Breast: Swap thighs for leaner chicken breast pieces.
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace flour and soy sauce with gluten-free alternatives.
- Lightened Version: Bake the chicken instead of frying for a healthier twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Set up a dredging station: one bowl with beaten eggs, another with a mixture of flour and corn starch.
- Coat each chicken piece in the flour mixture, dip it in the egg, and then coat it again in the flour mixture. This double coating ensures maximum crispiness.
2. Fry the Chicken
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat (about 350°F).
- Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, cooking for 3-5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
3. Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and corn starch. Set aside.
- Heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Sauté the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Pour in the sauce mixture and stir constantly until it thickens and bubbles, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine and Serve
- Add the fried chicken pieces to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through and well coated.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired.
Serving and Decoration
General Tso’s Chicken pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice. For added color and texture, serve it alongside steamed broccoli or snap peas. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a polished, restaurant-style presentation.
How to Serve General Tso’s Chicken
This versatile dish can be served in various ways:
- Over Rice: Pair with steamed jasmine or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- With Noodles: Serve over lo mein or stir-fried noodles for a comforting meal.
- In Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the chicken into crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
- With Veggies: Add sautéed or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate.
Storing General Tso’s Chicken
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to retain crispiness.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
General Tso’s Chicken FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and fry the chicken in advance. Combine and reheat just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
What is the best oil for frying?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Absolutely! Coat the chicken as directed, then bake on a greased baking sheet at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I adjust the spice level?
Increase or decrease the red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
Conclusion
General Tso’s Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy coating and bold, flavorful sauce, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this recipe will become a go-to favorite. Try it today, and bring the delicious taste of takeout to your home!
