General Tso Chicken: The Ultimate Guide to Making It at Home

General Tso Chicken: the name alone conjures images of crispy, saucy, and utterly irresistible chicken bites. Have you ever wondered about the story behind this iconic dish that graces the menus of countless Chinese restaurants across the globe? It’s a culinary creation that, despite its name, has surprisingly little to do with the historical General Tso Tsung-t’ang of the Qing Dynasty. In fact, this sweet and savory sensation is largely an American invention, born from the ingenuity of chefs seeking to tantalize the palates of Western diners.

While its origins may be debated, the appeal of General Tso Chicken is undeniable. The perfectly crisp, deep-fried chicken, coated in a tangy, slightly spicy, and wonderfully sweet sauce, creates a symphony of flavors and textures that keeps us coming back for more. It’s the ultimate comfort food, satisfying cravings with its delightful combination of savory and sweet. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Join me as we embark on a culinary adventure to recreate this beloved classic in your own kitchen!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• For the Sauce:
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• For Aromatics and Garnish:
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 2-3 dried red chilies, optional
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Chopped green onions, for garnish

Preparing the Chicken:

Okay, let’s get started with the chicken! This is a crucial step, as we want it to be nice and crispy.

1. Cut the Chicken: First, make sure your chicken thighs are cut into even, 1-inch cubes. This ensures they cook evenly. I find that trimming off any excess fat at this stage is helpful too.
2. Prepare the Breading: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg, cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. This mixture will create a light and crispy coating for the chicken. Make sure there are no lumps in the mixture.
3. Coat the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the bowl with the breading mixture. Toss well to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. I like to use my hands for this to really get the breading into all the nooks and crannies.

Making the General Tso’s Sauce:

Now, let’s move on to the star of the show – the sauce! This is where all the magic happens, and we’ll be creating that signature sweet, savory, and spicy flavor.

1. Combine the Sauce Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, ground ginger, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and chicken broth. Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to prevent any lumps in the final sauce.
2. Taste and Adjust: Give the sauce a taste! This is your chance to adjust the flavors to your liking. If you want it spicier, add more red pepper flakes. If you prefer it sweeter, add a little more sugar. If it’s too tangy, add a touch more sugar to balance it out.

Frying the Chicken:

Time to fry the chicken! This is where we get that beautiful golden-brown color and crispy texture. Safety first – be careful when working with hot oil!

1. Heat the Oil: Pour enough vegetable oil into a large, deep skillet or wok to reach a depth of about 1-2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350-375°F (175-190°C). You can use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature, or test it by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil – it should sizzle and turn golden brown in about 30 seconds.
2. Fry in Batches: Carefully add the chicken to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per batch, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
3. Drain the Chicken: Use a slotted spoon or spider to remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This will help keep the chicken crispy.

Cooking the Sauce and Combining:

Almost there! Now we’ll bring everything together to create the perfect General Tso’s Chicken.

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, minced ginger, and dried red chilies (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the aromatics. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The cornstarch in the sauce will help it thicken quickly.
3. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the fried chicken to the skillet with the thickened sauce. Toss well to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce. Make sure every piece is glistening with that delicious General Tso’s flavor!
4. Simmer Briefly: Let the chicken and sauce simmer together for another minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld together. This will also help the chicken stay crispy.

Serving and Garnishing:

Finally, it’s time to serve and enjoy your homemade General Tso’s Chicken!

1. Serve Immediately: Serve the General Tso’s Chicken immediately over steamed rice. I like to use jasmine rice, but any type of rice will work.
2. Garnish: Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. These add a nice visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor.
3. Optional Additions: You can also add steamed broccoli or other vegetables to the dish for a more complete meal. Some people also like to add a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavor.

Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken:

• Double Fry: For extra crispy chicken, you can fry it twice. Fry it once at a lower temperature (325°F) for about 5 minutes, then let it cool slightly. Then, fry it again at a higher temperature (375°F) for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
• Use Potato Starch: If you have potato starch on hand, you can substitute it for the cornstarch in the breading mixture. Potato starch tends to create a crispier coating.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: As mentioned earlier, overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry in batches to ensure the chicken stays crispy.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Spicier Sauce: If you like your General Tso’s Chicken extra spicy, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil to the sauce.
• Less Sweet Sauce: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe.
• Vegetarian Option: You can substitute the chicken with tofu or cauliflower florets for a vegetarian version. Just make sure to press the tofu to remove excess water before breading and frying.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.

Storage Instructions:

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Keep in mind that the chicken may lose some of its crispiness when reheated.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe for General Tso’s Chicken! It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the flavors and adjust the recipe to your liking. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This isn’t just another recipe; it’s your ticket to restaurant-quality General Tso Chicken right in your own kitchen. I know, I know, it might seem a little daunting at first glance, but trust me, the incredible flavor payoff is absolutely worth every single step. From the perfectly crispy chicken to that sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce, this dish is a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more.

Why is this a must-try? Well, beyond the sheer deliciousness, it’s about control. You get to control the ingredients, ensuring you’re using high-quality chicken and avoiding any unwanted additives or excessive sodium often found in takeout versions. Plus, there’s a certain satisfaction that comes from creating something so amazing from scratch. It’s a dish that’s guaranteed to impress your family and friends, and honestly, it’s a pretty impressive feat to pull off!

But the fun doesn’t stop there! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick. Want to lighten things up? Serve it over steamed broccoli or cauliflower rice instead of white rice. You could even use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer, more flavorful experience.

Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started:

• Serve over fluffy white rice or brown rice for a classic pairing.
• Add a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a balanced meal.
• Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a beautiful presentation.
• For a spicier kick, add a drizzle of sriracha or chili oil.
• Try serving it with egg rolls or spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired feast.

And if you’re looking to switch things up, consider these variations:

• General Tso’s Tofu: Substitute the chicken with firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed. Follow the same breading and frying instructions for a delicious vegetarian option.
• General Tso’s Shrimp: Use large shrimp, peeled and deveined, instead of chicken. Reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
• General Tso’s Cauliflower: For a low-carb alternative, use cauliflower florets. Steam or blanch them briefly before breading and frying.

I’ve poured my heart and soul into perfecting this General Tso Chicken recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s a crowd-pleaser, a flavor bomb, and a guaranteed success.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I promise you won’t regret it. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Cooking should be fun, so relax, enjoy the process, and savor the delicious results.

Once you’ve tried this recipe, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to improve and create even more amazing recipes for you. Happy cooking!