General Tso Chicken

Craving that sweet, savory, and slightly spicy goodness of General Tso’s Chicken but don’t want to order takeout? I’ve got you covered! This recipe is surprisingly simple to make at home, and trust me, it tastes even better than what you’d get from your local Chinese restaurant157.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Forget spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe comes together in under an hour1.
• Customizable Spice Level: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes1.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ginger and garlic makes a world of difference1.
• Better Than Takeout: Seriously, once you make this, you won’t go back to ordering in157.

Quick Facts

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Serving size: 4-6 people

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 2 lb chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces1
• 1/2 cup corn starch1
• 1/4 cup extra light olive oil, for frying, plus more as needed1

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup cold water1
• 5 tbsp low sodium soy sauce1
• 3 tbsp rice vinegar, or more to taste1
• 1 1/2 tbsp hoisin sauce1
• 4 tbsp granulated sugar1
• 1 1/2 tbsp cornstarch1
• 2 tbsp minced ginger, from a 2-inch piece of ginger1
• 3 cloves garlic, or 1 Tbsp grated or finely minced1
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, or added to taste1
• 1 tsp sesame seeds, optional for garnish1

Let’s Get Cooking!

1. Prep the Chicken: Cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes and toss in batches with cornstarch, tapping off the excess1. Set aside on a platter1.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a separate dish, whisk together all the sauce ingredients until well combined2.
3. Cook the Chicken: Preheat a non-stick skillet with oil1. Cook the chicken in 2-3 batches, sautéing until golden on all sides and cooked through1. Remove the chicken and transfer to a bowl1.
4. Sauté Aromatics: Leave at least 1 Tbsp oil in the pan. Add the garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes1. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant1.
5. Add Sauce and Combine: Add the sauce to the skillet and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly1. Let it simmer for 1 minute to cook off the vinegar1. Taste the sauce and adjust soy sauce or rice vinegar as needed1. Add the chicken and toss to coat1.
6. Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired, and serve immediately1.

Serving Suggestions

• Rice: Serve over hot steamed rice2.
• Vegetables: Pair with stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers4.
• Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced scallions for extra flavor and visual appeal4.

Tips for the Best General Tso’s Chicken

• Prepare ingredients ahead of time: This recipe moves quickly, so having everything prepped makes it easier1.
• Adjust the spice: Add more or less red pepper flakes to suit your taste1.
• Use fresh ginger and garlic: Avoid powdered versions for the best flavor1.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches to ensure it gets crispy1.
• Serve immediately: The sauce can make the chicken soggy if it sits for too long1.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Chicken thighs are more flavorful and juicy, but chicken breasts can be used. Just be careful not to overcook them1.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time? The sauce can be made ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the chicken right before serving to maintain its crispiness1.
• How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave1.
• Can I add other vegetables to the sauce? Absolutely! Feel free to add broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, or snap peas to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking4.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)

• Calories: 400-450
• Protein: 30-35g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Fat: 15-20g

Note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.Enjoy your delicious, homemade General Tso’s Chicken! I hope this becomes a new favorite in your kitchen.