General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

General Tso’s Chicken is a beloved Chinese takeout classic that combines sweet and spicy flavors in a deliciously satisfying dish. This General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is perfect for family dinners, game nights, or impressing guests at your next gathering. Enjoy the convenience of making this restaurant favorite right in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from prep to plate, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The sweet and savory sauce, combined with tender chicken, creates a taste explosion that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, alongside vegetables, or even in a wrap for a fun twist.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste by adding more red pepper flakes or soy sauce.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Prevents sticking and allows for easy flipping of chicken pieces while frying.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine and whisk ingredients for the sauce thoroughly.
• Whisk: Ensures all sauce ingredients blend smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

To create this delightful General Tso’s Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

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

1. Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes.
2. Toss chicken in batches with corn starch, 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 until well combined.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 4: Add Aromatics

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

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring it to a simmer while stirring continuously.
2. Let it simmer for approximately one minute to cook off some of the vinegar’s acidity.
3. Taste the sauce; adjust with more soy sauce or rice vinegar if desired.
4. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat evenly with sauce.
5. Serve garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

With this simple General Tso’s Chicken Recipe, you’ll be able to whip up a delightful meal that rivals your favorite takeout! Enjoy!

How to Serve General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Serving General Tso’s Chicken is all about enhancing its flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your meal.

Pair with Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or jasmine rice serves as the perfect base for soaking up the rich sauce of General Tso’s Chicken.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light salad, such as a cucumber salad, offers a refreshing crunch that complements the dish’s sweetness.

Serve with Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Colorful stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli add nutrition and vibrant colors to your plate.

Include Egg Rolls

• Crispy egg rolls make for a delicious appetizer that pairs well with the sweet and spicy chicken.

Top with Green Onions

• Chopped green onions not only add flavor but also bring a pop of color when sprinkled on top of the finished dish.

Enjoy with Fried Rice

• Serve General Tso’s Chicken alongside fried rice for an extra hearty meal that combines delicious flavors.

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How to Perfect General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

To ensure your General Tso’s Chicken is restaurant-quality, keep these tips in mind:

• Use high-quality chicken: Fresh, boneless chicken thighs yield better flavor and texture than frozen options.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature, ensuring crispy chicken pieces.

• Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste; you can always add more for heat.

• Whisk sauce thoroughly: Make sure all ingredients in the sauce are well combined before adding it to the skillet for even flavor.

• Let it sit before serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking enhances the flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Complementing your General Tso’s Chicken with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fried Rice: Savory fried rice packed with vegetables adds depth and flavor alongside your main dish.

2. Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls filled with veggies or meat provide a delightful crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.

3. Chow Mein: Noodles stir-fried with vegetables offer additional texture and soak up any extra sauce wonderfully.

4. Sesame Broccoli: Steamed or sautéed broccoli tossed in sesame oil enhances both flavor and nutrition.

5. Garlic Noodles: Buttery garlic noodles add richness that pairs perfectly with the sweet notes of General Tso’s Chicken.

6. Miso Soup: A light miso soup can cleanse your palate while providing warmth and comfort during your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making General Tso’s Chicken can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that might ruin the dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the cornstarch dredge: Not coating the chicken with cornstarch can lead to a soggy texture. Make sure to toss the chicken pieces in cornstarch before frying for that crispy finish.

• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much chicken at once will lower the oil temperature, causing steaming instead of frying. Fry in batches to achieve perfectly crispy chicken.

• Ignoring sauce balance: Using too much vinegar or sugar can overpower the dish. Taste your sauce as you mix and adjust ingredients to ensure a balanced flavor.

• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Old garlic or ginger can diminish flavor. Always use fresh produce for the best taste in your General Tso’s Chicken recipe.

• Not letting the sauce simmer: Skipping the simmering step prevents flavors from melding together. Allow your sauce to simmer briefly for a harmonious taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover General Tso’s Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

• Freeze General Tso’s Chicken in airtight freezer bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy reference.

Reheating General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid or paper towel. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.

• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is General Tso’s Chicken Recipe?

General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is a popular Chinese-American dish featuring fried chicken tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar.

How can I make General Tso’s Chicken healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using skinless chicken breasts, reducing sugar content, or baking instead of frying. You can also add more veggies for added nutrition.

What sides pair well with General Tso’s Chicken?

Common sides include steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables. You can also serve it with spring rolls or dumplings for a complete meal.

Can I make General Tso’s Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them together just before serving.

How do I customize my General Tso’s Chicken Recipe?

Feel free to adjust spice levels by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with different protein sources like tofu or shrimp for variety.

Final Thoughts

This General Tso’s Chicken recipe brings comfort and joy right from your kitchen. With its sweet and spicy flavors, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels to suit your palate!