General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Chinese takeout right in your kitchen. This recipe combines tender chicken pieces with a sweet and spicy sauce, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. It’s easy to prepare and offers a unique flavor profile that will impress your guests. Enjoy this classic dish any night of the week for a satisfying meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this General Tso’s Chicken recipe fits perfectly into busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: Enjoy the balance of sweetness and heat, making each bite an exciting experience.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that suits everyone at the table.
- Homemade Goodness: Skip takeout and make this delicious dish at home, controlling ingredients for a healthier option.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family gatherings or dinner parties; it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Platter for chicken
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick skillet: Ensures even cooking and prevents sticking, making cleanup easier.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining sauce ingredients thoroughly.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth sauce by blending all components well.
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
How to Make General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes.
- Toss chicken in batches with corn starch, tapping off the excess.
- Set dredged chicken on a platter and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a separate dish, combine all the ingredients for your sauce.
- Whisk to ensure everything is blended well.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat with oil.
- Cook chicken in 2 to 3 batches, sautéing until golden brown on both sides and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from pan and transfer it 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
- Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to the skillet.
- Sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet.
- Bring it to a simmer while stirring continuously; let it simmer for about 1 minute.
- Taste the sauce; adjust with more soy sauce or rice vinegar if desired.
- Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Enjoy your homemade General Tso’s Chicken alongside rice or noodles!
How to Serve General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
General Tso’s Chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.
Pair with Steamed Rice
- Steamed white rice is the perfect base for this dish, soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Add Some Vegetables
- Fresh stir-fried or steamed vegetables add color and nutrients. Broccoli and bell peppers work particularly well.
Use as a Filling for Wraps
- Try wrapping General Tso’s Chicken in lettuce leaves or tortillas for a fun twist on the traditional serving style.
Serve Over Noodles
- For a heartier meal, serve the chicken over lo mein or rice noodles, drizzled with extra sauce.
Create a Feast with Appetizers
- Start your meal with appetizers like spring rolls or dumplings to complement the flavors of General Tso’s Chicken.
Garnish Creatively
- Enhance presentation by garnishing with sliced green onions or additional sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.
How to Perfect General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
To achieve an authentic taste and texture of General Tso’s Chicken, consider these helpful tips.
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Choose the Right Chicken: Use chicken thighs for juiciness. They hold up better during cooking compared to breast meat.
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Dust with Cornstarch: Ensure all chicken pieces are evenly coated with cornstarch. This helps create that crispy exterior when frying.
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Control the Heat: Frying at medium-high heat allows for an even cook while keeping the outside crispy without burning.
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Taste as You Go: Always adjust your sauce to your preference. A little more soy sauce or vinegar can make a big difference in flavor.
Best Side Dishes for General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
When enjoying General Tso’s Chicken, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent suggestions:
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Fried Rice: A classic side that adds flavor and texture. Try making it with peas, carrots, and scrambled eggs for extra color.
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Egg Rolls: Crunchy on the outside and filled with savory veggies and meat; they make a perfect appetizer.
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Wonton Soup: A light broth-based soup that pairs wonderfully with the spiciness of General Tso’s Chicken.
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Asian Slaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage and carrots dressed in sesame oil adds crunch and balances the meal’s richness.
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Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with pork or vegetables complement the sweet and spicy notes of the chicken nicely.
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Chili Garlic Green Beans: These stir-fried green beans provide heat and freshness, making them an ideal side dish choice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making General Tso’s Chicken, it’s easy to run into common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Chicken: This can lead to dry and tough pieces. Make sure to cook the chicken just until golden and cooked through.
- Skipping the Cornstarch: Not using cornstarch or not coating the chicken properly can result in a less crispy texture. Be sure to coat each piece evenly.
- Neglecting Flavor Balance: Using too much or too little soy sauce or vinegar can throw off the flavor. Always taste your sauce and adjust as needed.
- Not Preparing Ingredients Ahead: Failing to have all ingredients ready can lead to overcooked garlic or ginger. Prep everything before you start cooking.
- Ignoring Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too watery, it won’t cling well to the chicken. Allow it to simmer longer if needed to thicken.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover General Tso’s Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
- Freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be stored for up to 2-3 months; however, it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil. Add chicken and stir until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish:
What is General Tso’s Chicken Recipe known for?
General Tso’s Chicken is loved for its perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, making it a favorite among Chinese takeout dishes.
Can I make General Tso’s Chicken Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch to ensure this dish fits a gluten-free diet while still being delicious.
How do I make General Tso’s Chicken Recipe healthier?
To make it healthier, consider baking the chicken instead of frying or reducing the sugar amount in the sauce.
What sides pair well with General Tso’s Chicken Recipe?
Serve this dish with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Its sweet and spicy flavors are sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize the spice level or add extra veggies for added nutrition!
General Tso’s Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Experience the delightful flavors of homemade General Tso’s Chicken, a beloved Chinese takeout classic that brings a sweet and spicy kick right to your kitchen. This recipe features tender chicken thighs coated in a crispy cornstarch crust, tossed in a luscious sauce made with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that captures the essence of comfort food.
Ingredients
- 2 lb chicken thighs (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup extra light olive oil
- 2 tbsp minced ginger
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 5 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 3 tbsp rice vinegar
- 4 tbsp granulated sugar
Instructions
- Coat chicken pieces in cornstarch, shaking off excess.
- In a bowl, mix ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar to create the sauce.
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown, then set aside.
- Sauté garlic and ginger in the remaining oil until fragrant.
- Add sauce mixture to the skillet; simmer briefly before returning chicken to coat evenly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
