General Tso Chicken is a beloved Chinese-American dish known for its crispy fried chicken pieces tossed in a bold, sweet, and tangy sauce. Its harmonious blend of savory soy sauce, sweet sugar, tangy vinegar, and a hint of spice creates a flavor profile that’s both indulgent and satisfying. While it’s a popular takeout choice, making General Tso Chicken at home allows you to enjoy a fresher, healthier version tailored to your taste.
The crispy coating on the chicken perfectly balances the sticky glaze, creating a dish that’s a textural delight. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables, making it a versatile option for both casual family dinners and more elaborate gatherings.
This recipe is quick to prepare and uses pantry staples, ensuring it’s accessible for home cooks of all levels. Whether you’re a fan of traditional flavors or looking to spice things up, General Tso Chicken is a dish that will impress every time.
Why You’ll Love This General Tso Chicken Recipe
1. Perfect Balance of Flavors
This dish offers a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, savory, and slightly spicy notes. The sauce clings beautifully to the crispy chicken, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
2. Easy to Make at Home
You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to master this recipe. With simple ingredients and clear instructions, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen.
3. Highly Customizable
General Tso Chicken can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. Adjust the spice level, add vegetables, or swap the protein for tofu or shrimp for a personalized twist.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 460
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
Ingredients for General Tso Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Optional Garnishes:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Serving Suggestions:
- Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice
- Stir-fried vegetables (broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy)
Step-by-Step Instructions for General Tso Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the chicken.
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with cornstarch, one with beaten eggs, and one with flour. Coat each piece of chicken in cornstarch, dip it in the eggs, and then dredge it in flour. Set aside.
Step 2: Fry the chicken.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F), fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 3: Make the sauce.
In a medium saucepan, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Combine chicken and sauce.
Transfer the fried chicken to a large skillet or wok. Pour the sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Cook for 1–2 minutes to ensure the chicken absorbs the flavors.
Step 5: Garnish and serve.
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice with your favorite sides.
Ingredient Background
Chicken Thighs or Breasts
Chicken thighs are prized for their juiciness and rich flavor, making them an excellent choice for General Tso Chicken. The natural fat content in thighs ensures a moist texture, even after frying. On the other hand, chicken breasts offer a leaner alternative, making the dish lighter while still delivering satisfying results. To ensure even cooking, cut the chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Proper preparation helps the chicken cook evenly and absorb the flavorful sauce.
Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is a cornerstone ingredient in Asian cuisine, and low-sodium soy sauce is ideal for this recipe. It provides a robust umami flavor while keeping the dish from becoming too salty. Soy sauce not only enhances the savory profile but also helps balance the sweetness from the sugar and hoisin sauce. For added depth, consider using a mix of light soy sauce and a dash of dark soy sauce.
Hoisin Sauce
Often referred to as “Asian barbecue sauce,” hoisin sauce delivers a rich, slightly sweet, and savory depth to the dish. Its velvety texture thickens the sauce, while its unique flavor pairs beautifully with the tangy rice vinegar. The inclusion of hoisin sauce elevates the sauce’s complexity, making it a standout feature in this recipe.
Cornstarch
Cornstarch serves two vital purposes in this recipe. First, it creates a light, crispy coating on the chicken when fried, adding texture that contrasts beautifully with the sticky sauce. Second, it acts as a thickening agent for the sauce, giving it a glossy finish that clings perfectly to the chicken. Be sure to coat the chicken evenly and mix the cornstarch slurry thoroughly to avoid clumping.
Garlic and Ginger
These aromatics are essential for the bold flavor of General Tso Chicken. Fresh garlic adds a pungent, savory element, while grated ginger provides a subtle heat and warm spice. Together, they create a fragrant base that enhances the sweet and tangy notes of the sauce. Using fresh ingredients is key to achieving the dish’s signature depth of flavor.
Technique Tips for the Best General Tso Chicken
1. Fry in Small Batches
Overcrowding the frying pan can lead to uneven cooking and soggy chicken. Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain consistent oil temperature and achieve a golden, crispy exterior. This step is crucial for replicating the restaurant-quality texture that makes General Tso Chicken so appealing.
2. Maintain Oil Temperature
Keeping the oil at a consistent 350°F is vital for perfectly fried chicken. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy. Conversely, oil that’s too hot can burn the coating before the chicken is fully cooked. Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the oil temperature, adjusting the heat as needed during cooking.
3. Adjust the Spice Level
General Tso Chicken is known for its balance of sweet and spicy flavors, but the spice level can easily be adjusted to your liking. For more heat, add extra red pepper flakes, fresh chili peppers, or a splash of Sriracha. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the red pepper or omit it entirely. The flexibility of the spice level makes this dish appealing to a wide range of palates.
4. Thicken the Sauce Correctly
A well-thickened sauce is key to the dish’s glossy, clingy texture. Slowly add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering sauce while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a splash of water, chicken broth, or soy sauce. Proper sauce consistency ensures that every piece of chicken is perfectly coated.
5. Serve Immediately
For the best texture and flavor, serve General Tso Chicken immediately after tossing it with the sauce. The crispy coating may soften if it sits too long, so keep the chicken and sauce separate if preparing ahead of time. Combine them just before serving for a fresh, restaurant-quality experience.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
1. Spicy General Tso Chicken
Crank up the heat by adding extra red pepper flakes, thinly sliced fresh chili peppers, or a drizzle of chili oil. This version pairs beautifully with a cooling side like cucumber salad or steamed greens. Adjust the spice to your preference, making it as mild or fiery as you’d like.
2. General Tso Stir-Fry
Elevate the dish by incorporating a variety of fresh vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Stir-fry the vegetables for 2–3 minutes before adding the cooked chicken and sauce. The added color and texture make this an even more satisfying meal.
3. General Tso Tacos
For a fusion-inspired twist, use soft tortillas as a base. Fill them with General Tso Chicken, shredded cabbage or lettuce, and a drizzle of sauce. Top with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an unexpected but delicious taco night treat.
4. Rice Bowl
Transform General Tso Chicken into a hearty rice bowl. Serve it over jasmine or brown rice, then add stir-fried vegetables and garnish with fresh cilantro or extra green onions. For a low-carb version, use cauliflower rice instead.
5. Baked General Tso Chicken
For a healthier preparation, bake the chicken pieces at 400°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Once cooked, toss the baked chicken in the sauce for a lighter take on this classic dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture.
Freezing and Storing General Tso Chicken
Storing Leftovers
Allow both the chicken and sauce to cool completely before storing. Keep them in separate airtight containers to maintain the chicken’s crispness. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm the chicken in an oven or air fryer to restore its texture and heat the sauce gently on the stovetop.
Freezing General Tso Chicken
To freeze, store the cooked chicken and sauce in separate freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. This method ensures the chicken stays crispy and the sauce retains its rich flavors.
Reheating Tips
For the best results, reheat the chicken in an air fryer or oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, which restores its crunch. Heat the sauce separately on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to maintain a smooth texture. Combine the two just before serving for a freshly prepared taste.
Healthier Twist Ideas
1. Bake Instead of Fry
Skip the frying and bake the chicken pieces at 400°F for a healthier yet crispy alternative. Coat the chicken lightly in cornstarch before baking to mimic the fried texture.
2. Use Lean Protein
Replace chicken with turkey, shrimp, or tofu for a leaner or vegetarian-friendly option. These alternatives soak up the flavorful sauce beautifully while offering unique textures.
3. Reduce Sugar
Cut back on the brown sugar in the sauce and add a splash of orange juice or pineapple juice for natural sweetness. This modification creates a tangier, lighter glaze.
4. Gluten-Free Option
Make this dish gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. For dredging, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative or stick to cornstarch alone.
5. Add Vegetables
Incorporate stir-fried or steamed vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or snow peas for added nutrition and variety. Vegetables complement the tangy, savory sauce and add vibrant colors to the plate.
Serving Suggestions for Events
Family Dinners
For a comforting family meal, pair General Tso Chicken with steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, and crispy spring rolls. This combination offers a balanced, flavorful dinner that’s sure to be a hit.
Party Appetizers
Turn General Tso Chicken into a crowd-pleasing finger food by skewering bite-sized pieces with toothpicks. Serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping, and garnish with sesame seeds for an elegant touch.
Date Night
Impress your partner with a restaurant-style dinner by serving General Tso Chicken alongside sesame noodles and sautéed garlic green beans. Pair with a glass of chilled white wine for a romantic, elevated meal.
Meal Prep
Divide cooked chicken and sauce into meal prep containers with rice or noodles and a side of vegetables. This dish reheats well and provides a flavorful, nutritious lunch or dinner option throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make General Tso Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the chicken and sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers and combine them just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
2. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Absolutely! Bake the chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier option.
3. How do I make General Tso Chicken gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch.
4. Can I freeze General Tso Chicken?
Yes, freeze the chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before combining.
5. What’s a good vegetable to pair with General Tso Chicken?
Broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots are excellent choices. Stir-fry or steam them to serve alongside or mix into the dish.
6. Can I make the sauce less sweet?
Certainly! Reduce the amount of brown sugar and add a splash of rice vinegar for a tangier flavor.
7. Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can use shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a delicious variation that suits your preferences.
8. What’s another delicious recipe to try?
Try our Apple Orchard Chicken for a savory-sweet dish featuring tender chicken in a rich apple glaze. It’s a perfect fall-inspired meal!
Conclusion
General Tso Chicken is a timeless dish that combines crispy fried chicken with a sticky, tangy-sweet sauce. Its bold flavors and satisfying textures make it a favorite for takeout lovers and home cooks alike. By making this dish at home, you can enjoy a fresher, healthier version that’s easy to customize.
This recipe’s versatility ensures it fits a variety of occasions, from cozy weeknight meals to festive gatherings. Whether you prefer it spicy, packed with vegetables, or served in tacos or rice bowls, General Tso Chicken can be adapted to suit your taste and style.
Mastering this recipe means you’ll always have a go-to dish that impresses family and friends. With its irresistible flavor and endless presentation options, General Tso Chicken will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.