General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving sweet, tangy, and crispy chicken, this General Tso’s Chicken recipe is exactly what you need.

This dish is bold in flavor, easy to make, and better than takeout. With a perfect balance of sweet and spicy sauce coating crispy fried chicken, it satisfies every time.

Unlike many other Chinese-American classics, General Tso’s stands out for its deep, caramelized sauce and bold garlic-ginger notes. It’s a fan favorite in homes and restaurants alike.

This recipe will walk you through every step to make this iconic dish. From ingredients to pro tips, it’s all covered here.

Whether it’s your first try or you’ve made it before, this General Tso’s Chicken recipe will help you master it. Be sure to follow the tips and serve it with one of our tasty sides. Let’s bring restaurant flavor to your table!

When I First Introduced to General Tso’s Chicken

I first tried General Tso’s Chicken recipe at a friend’s dinner. It instantly became a favorite. The crispy coating, sticky sauce, and bold spices blew me away.

Equipment List

• Large mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
• Wire rack or paper towels
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wok or large skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Tongs

Ingredients List

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless chicken thighs (cut into cubes)
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 tbsp rice vinegar
• 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Marinate the Chicken: Mix chicken, soy sauce, egg, and salt. Let sit 20 mins.

2. Make the Coating: Combine cornstarch and flour in a bowl.

3. Coat the Chicken: Dredge marinated chicken in the dry flour mixture.

4. Heat the Oil: Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C).

5. Fry in Batches: Fry coated chicken until golden and crisp.

6. Drain Excess Oil: Place chicken on a wire rack or paper towels.

7. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, vinegar, hoisin, sugar, broth, and cornstarch.

8. Cook the Sauce: Heat a wok. Add garlic, ginger, and pepper flakes. Sauté briefly.

9. Add Sauce to Wok: Pour sauce into the wok and cook until thickened.

10. Combine Chicken with Sauce: Add fried chicken to the wok. Toss to coat well.

Recipe Tips

1. Use thigh meat for extra juiciness.
2. Double-fry for a crispier texture.
3. Adjust spice with chili flakes.
4. Do not overcrowd the frying pan.
5. Serve immediately for best crunch.
6. Sauce thickens more as it cools.
7. Add broccoli for a veggie twist.

What Can You Serve With General Tso’s Chicken?

Here are 10 delicious sides to pair with this General Tso’s Chicken recipe:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice
   A neutral base that balances the sauce’s richness.
2. Fried Rice
   Savory, loaded with eggs and veggies. A filling choice.
3. Garlic Noodles
   A flavorful noodle option to soak up extra sauce.
4. Stir-Fried Broccoli
   Adds crunch and color. Pairs well with the sticky sauce.
5. Vegetable Spring Rolls
   Crispy, light, and great for dipping in sweet chili sauce.
6. Asian Slaw
   Fresh and tangy. A great contrast to fried chicken.
7. Egg Drop Soup
   Warm and comforting. Light enough to start your meal.
8. Sesame Green Beans
   Nutty and bright. Quick to make and goes with any Asian dish.
9. Cucumber Salad
   Cool and refreshing. Cuts through the dish’s richness.
10. Lo Mein Noodles
    Soft and savory. A popular side with any Chinese main.

Conclusion

This General Tso’s Chicken recipe is crispy, saucy, and flavorful. It’s a classic for a reason. Make it at home with simple steps and ingredients.

Impress guests or enjoy it solo. Once you try this version, takeout won’t compare.