General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is a favorite among Chinese takeout lovers. This dish brings together sweet and spicy flavors for a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or when you crave something comforting, this homemade version allows you to savor the unique taste right from your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of total cooking time, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of ginger, garlic, and soy sauce creates an irresistible flavor that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Customizable: Adjust the level of sweetness and spice according to your preference for a personalized dish.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cook everything in one skillet, making cleanup quick and easy after enjoying your meal.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This dish keeps well, so you can enjoy it again the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To make this General Tso’s Chicken Recipe successfully, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help you prepare and cook efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Platter for dredging

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures even cooking and prevents sticking, making it easier to handle the chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without making a mess; a must for preparing your sauce.
• Whisk: Helps blend sauce ingredients smoothly for a consistent flavor in every bite.

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 the ingredients for your sauce.
2. Whisk to combine thoroughly.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

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

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Add sauce to the skillet and bring it to a simmer while stirring.
2. Let it simmer for about 1 minute to cook off some vinegar’s sharpness; taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
3. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat evenly with sauce.
4. Serve garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Enjoy this homemade General Tso’s Chicken Recipe as part of your next meal!

How to Serve General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Serving General Tso’s Chicken is all about enhancing the flavors and ensuring a satisfying meal. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

With Steamed Rice

• White Rice: A classic choice that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier twist, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more fiber.

With Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli adds color and nutrients to your plate.
• Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy offers a mild flavor that complements the chicken.

As a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option that keeps your meal light.
• Spring Rolls: Serve with spring rolls for a crunchy texture contrast.

Accompanied by Dipping Sauces

• Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds an extra kick of sweetness and spice.
• Soy Sauce Mixture: A simple mix of soy sauce and vinegar for those who prefer more saltiness.

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How to Perfect General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

To achieve the best results with your General Tso’s Chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger provide vibrant flavors that dried spices cannot match.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches ensures even browning and crispiness of the chicken.
• Adjust Sauce to Taste: Feel free to tweak the levels of soy sauce and vinegar according to your preference.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the cooked chicken to sit for a few minutes before serving helps enhance its juiciness.
• Garnish Generously: Sprinkling extra sesame seeds or chopped green onions adds both flavor and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

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

1. Fried Rice: A flavorful mix of vegetables and protein makes it hearty.
2. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with veggies or meat add crunch to your meal.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad balances the richness of the chicken.
4. Miso Soup: Light miso soup provides warmth and complements Asian flavors well.
5. Chow Mein: Noodles stir-fried with vegetables add another layer of texture.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Tart pickled veggies can cleanse the palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your General Tso’s Chicken turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow the chicken to soak in seasoning for at least 15 minutes.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too much chicken at once can cause steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches to achieve that crispy texture.
• Not Using Enough Oil: Insufficient oil can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure there’s enough oil in the pan for even frying.
• Ignoring Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thin, it won’t coat the chicken well. Allow it to simmer until it thickens properly before adding the chicken back in.
• Using Regular Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce can make dishes too salty. Opt for low sodium soy sauce for better flavor balance.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Good for up to 2 months; allow it to cool completely before freezing.

Reheating General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe.

What is General Tso’s Chicken Recipe known for?

General Tso’s Chicken is famous for its sweet and spicy flavor profile, making it a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist on this recipe.

How do I make General Tso’s Chicken healthier?

To make it healthier, use skinless chicken breast, reduce sugar in the sauce, or bake instead of frying.

What should I serve with General Tso’s Chicken?

Pair it with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This General Tso’s Chicken Recipe offers an amazing combination of flavors that you can easily customize. Whether you prefer more spice or sweetness, you can adjust it according to your taste. Try making this delightful dish at home and enjoy restaurant-quality flavors right from your kitchen!