Craving that sweet, savory, and slightly spicy kick of General Tso’s Chicken? Forget takeout! This recipe brings the authentic, irresistible flavors of your favorite Chinese restaurant dish right to your kitchen. Imagine perfectly crispy chicken coated in a glossy, umami-rich sauce – that’s exactly what you’ll achieve with this easy-to-follow guide. We’ll walk you through every step, from prepping the chicken to creating the perfect sauce, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal every time. This General Tso’s Chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to make.
Let’s dive into the details and see what makes this General Tso’s Chicken recipe so special.
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 25 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Difficulty | Medium |
Nutrition per serving (approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 550-650 kcal |
| Protein | 40-50g |
| Fat | 25-35g |
| Carbohydrates | 40-50g |
Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Remember that deep-fried dishes will naturally be higher in calories and fat content.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Thighs | 1.5 lbs, boneless, skinless, cut into 1-inch pieces | Chicken breasts can be substituted, but thighs are more tender and flavorful. |
| Cornstarch | 1/2 cup, plus more for dredging | Essential for a crispy coating. |
| Egg | 1 large | Helps the cornstarch adhere to the chicken. |
| Soy Sauce | 2 tablespoons | Use low-sodium to control the salt level. |
| Sesame Oil | 1 teaspoon | Adds a nutty aroma. |
| Vegetable Oil | 3 cups, for frying | Peanut oil also works well. |
| For the Sauce: | ||
| Chicken Broth | 1/2 cup | Low-sodium preferred. |
| Soy Sauce | 3 tablespoons | Again, low-sodium is recommended. |
| Rice Vinegar | 2 tablespoons | Adds a tangy flavor. |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup | Adjust to your preferred sweetness. |
| Hoisin Sauce | 1 tablespoon | Adds depth and umami. |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon, mixed with 2 tablespoons water | For thickening the sauce. |
| Ginger | 1 tablespoon, minced | Fresh ginger is best. |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Adds pungent flavor. |
| Dried Red Chili Peppers | 4-5, or to taste | Adds heat; adjust according to your preference. Can substitute with chili flakes. |
| Green Onions | 2, chopped, for garnish | Adds freshness and color. |
Cooking Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1/2 cup cornstarch, egg, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes. This crucial step ensures the chicken remains tender and absorbs flavors effectively.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and hoisin sauce. Set aside.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Dredge the marinated chicken in additional cornstarch, shaking off any excess. Fry in batches for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. The key to crispy General Tso’s Chicken lies in frying at the correct temperature and avoiding overcrowding the pot.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large wok or skillet, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced ginger, garlic, and dried red chili peppers. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine Sauce and Chicken: Pour the prepared sauce into the wok and bring to a simmer. Add the cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and stir constantly until the sauce thickens. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes.
- Coat the Chicken: Add the fried chicken to the wok and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Ensure every piece of General Tso’s Chicken is generously covered in the sweet and savory glaze.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately over steamed rice. The vibrant green adds visual appeal and a fresh bite.
This General Tso’s Chicken recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The symphony of flavors and textures will transport you straight to your favorite Chinese restaurant. Plus, making it at home means you control the ingredients and can adjust the spice level to your liking!
Serving Suggestions
General Tso’s Chicken is fantastic served over steamed white or brown rice. For a more balanced meal, consider adding a side of steamed broccoli, bok choy, or stir-fried vegetables. Egg rolls or spring rolls also make a great appetizer to complete the restaurant experience. A simple cucumber salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the General Tso’s Chicken.
Tips and Variations for Perfect General Tso’s Chicken:
- Crispy Chicken Secret: Double frying the chicken is a pro-tip for extra crispiness. Fry once, let it rest for a few minutes, then fry again for a minute or two.
- Spice It Up: For a spicier kick, add more dried red chili peppers or a dash of chili oil to the sauce.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the amount of sugar in the sauce to suit your personal preference. Some people prefer a sweeter sauce, while others prefer a more balanced flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or cauliflower florets for a vegetarian-friendly version. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it before adding the fried chicken. However, it is best to fry and add chicken just before serving to maintain crispness.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Also, ensure that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: When frying, do not overcrowd the pan. This will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry in batches to maintain the crispiness.
- Use a thermometer: Use a thermometer to ensure that the oil temperature stays consistent for optimal frying results.
This recipe delivers authentic General Tso’s Chicken flavor without the mystery ingredients or high sodium content often found in takeout versions. By following these simple steps, you’ll impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. So, ditch the phone and get cooking! You’re just a few steps away from enjoying a truly amazing homemade General Tso’s Chicken experience. Enjoy your delicious and authentic General Tso’s Chicken!
Variations to Explore:
- Sesame Seeds: Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds as a final garnish for added texture and nutty flavor.
- Orange Peel: A small amount of orange zest or dried orange peel can enhance the citrus notes in the sauce, creating a General Tso’s Chicken with an orange twist.
- Pineapple Chunks: If you enjoy a sweet and sour element, consider adding pineapple chunks to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
Making your own General Tso’s Chicken allows you to customize the recipe to your exact preferences. Want less sugar? No problem! Prefer more heat? Simply add more chili peppers. The possibilities are endless! With this recipe, you’ll never have to settle for mediocre takeout again. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to create your own signature version of this classic dish. Ultimately, the best General Tso’s Chicken is the one you love the most. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece! This General Tso’s Chicken recipe is not just about following instructions; it’s about embracing the joy of cooking and creating something delicious from scratch. With each step, you’ll gain confidence and discover new ways to enhance the flavors and textures of this beloved dish. So, don’t be afraid to experiment, have fun, and most importantly, enjoy the process!
So, the next time you crave that irresistible sweet and spicy flavor, remember this recipe and create your own restaurant-quality General Tso’s Chicken right in your own kitchen! The key is in the preparation, the quality of ingredients, and the love you put into it. Happy cooking! You can make the General Tso’s Chicken spicier by adding more chili flakes or adding a dash of cayenne pepper. Try adding different veggies like bell peppers or broccoli. Adding a touch of ginger to the sauce can change the depth of the dish.
