General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in a plate of General Tso’s Chicken. Crispy fried chicken coated in a glossy, sticky sauce with just the right amount of heat makes this a standout dish in Chinese-American cuisine.

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I remember the first time I tried General Tso’s Chicken at a local takeout spot—it was love at first bite. But once I learned to make it at home, I never looked back. This homemade version delivers all the flavor you crave, with fresher ingredients and less grease. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or wowing guests, this dish is always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This General Tso’s Chicken

This General Tso’s Chicken recipe is the ultimate comfort food that checks all the boxes:

First, it’s better than takeout. The homemade sauce is bursting with flavor, and you control the ingredients, making it fresher and healthier.

It’s quick and easy to make. In under 40 minutes, you can have restaurant-quality chicken on your table, perfect for busy weeknights.

The dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or even a side of sautéed vegetables to round out your meal.

Finally, it’s crowd-pleasing. The crispy chicken and bold flavors will have everyone reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds).

Ingredients Notes

This recipe uses simple ingredients to create big flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their juicy texture, but chicken breasts work well too.
• Cornstarch and Flour: This combination creates a crispy coating when fried.
• Egg: Acts as a binder for the coating mixture.
• Oil: Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for frying.

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: Use regular soy sauce for a salty, umami base. For less sodium, opt for a low-sodium version.
• Rice Vinegar: Adds a tangy kick to balance the sweetness.
• Hoisin Sauce: This thick, savory sauce is key to achieving the signature flavor of General Tso’s Chicken.
• Sugar: A touch of sugar brings out the sweetness in the sauce.
• Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger add depth and warmth.
• Dried Red Chili Peppers: These give the dish its signature heat. Adjust the quantity to your spice preference.
• Cornstarch Slurry: A mix of cornstarch and water thickens the sauce to that glossy perfection.

How to Make General Tso’s Chicken

Creating this iconic dish at home is simpler than you might think. Here’s the step-by-step process:

1. Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and pat dry with a paper towel. In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, and a pinch of salt. Beat the egg in a separate bowl. Dip each chicken piece in the egg, then coat it in the flour mixture.

2. Fry the Chicken

Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F), fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4–5 minutes per batch. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sugar, and a splash of water. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Sauté the minced garlic, ginger, and dried chili peppers until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the sauce mixture and bring to a simmer.

4. Thicken the Sauce

Create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir the slurry into the sauce and cook until it thickens and becomes glossy, about 1–2 minutes.

5. Toss the Chicken

Add the fried chicken to the wok and toss until each piece is fully coated in the sauce.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the General Tso’s Chicken hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for the ultimate meal.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your General Tso’s Chicken:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: While the sauce freezes well, the chicken may lose some crispiness. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat to maintain its texture. Add a splash of water to the sauce if it thickens too much.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is easy to customize. Here are some ideas:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or cauliflower for a plant-based twist.
• Different Proteins: Try shrimp or pork instead of chicken for a fresh take on this classic dish.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer less spice, reduce the number of dried chili peppers or omit them entirely. For more heat, add a dash of sriracha or chili garlic paste to the sauce.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch instead of flour for a gluten-free version.

With its crispy chicken, bold sauce, and unbeatable flavor, this General Tso’s Chicken is sure to become a family favorite. Skip the takeout and enjoy this homemade classic anytime!

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