Name: Savory General Tso Chicken: Your New Favorite Homemade Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds Chicken Thighs (Tender and juicy; can substitute with chicken breasts.); 0.5 cup Cornstarch (Essential for crispy texture.); 0.5 cup All-Purpose Flour (Can use gluten-free flour.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Sea salt can be used.); 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (Can substitute with white pepper.); 2 cups Vegetable Oil (Canola or peanut oil works well.); 3 cloves Garlic (Fresh is best; can use garlic powder.); 1 tablespoon Ginger (Use fresh for best results.); 3 pieces Dried Red Chilies (Adjust quantity for spice level.); 0.5 cup Soy Sauce (Gluten-free soy sauce available.); 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar (White vinegar can substitute.); 1 tablespoon Sugar (Brown sugar can be used for deeper flavor.); 2 tablespoons Hoisin Sauce (Skip for less sweet sauce.); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (For thickening, mix with water.); 1 tablespoons Water; 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil (Optional for nutty note.); 1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (Optional; adjust to taste.); 2 stalks Green Onions (Finely sliced for garnish.)

“With a glorious crunch that gives way to juicy chicken, General Tso Chicken is a dish that can whisk you away to the streets of culinary delight. The combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors will have your taste buds celebrating, making this recipe not just another meal, but an experience. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something comforting yet exciting, and the best part? The straightforward preparation lets even novice cooks shine in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking to impress your loved ones or simply indulge in a homemade version of this classic, this General Tso Chicken recipe is sure to become a staple in your rotation. Ready to dive into crispy bliss and delightful aromas? Let’s get cooking!”

Why is General Tso Chicken a Must-Try?

Savory Satisfaction: This dish perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, creating an explosion of taste with every bite.

Crispy Texture: The method delivers a golden, crispy coating that contrasts beautifully with tender chicken, making every mouthful a delightful experience.

Easy Prep: With simple steps, this recipe invites even novice cooks to create a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends, this classic dish is a surefire hit that brings smiles all around.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with veggies like bell peppers or broccoli, or switch proteins for a unique twist to your dish! Enjoy this weeknight wonder alongside Healthy Sticky Chicken or a fresh Greek Chicken Gyro for variety.

General Tso Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Tender and juicy, chicken thighs are perfect for this dish; you can use chicken breasts for a leaner option.
For the Coating
• Cornstarch – Essential for creating that light, crispy texture that everyone loves; avoid substituting it to maintain the crunch.
• All-Purpose Flour – This adds structure to the coating; gluten-free flour can be used for those needing a substitute.
• Salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken; feel free to use sea salt for a touch of richness.
• Black Pepper – Adds a hint of heat; opt for white pepper for a milder alternative.
For Frying
• Vegetable Oil – Perfect for frying due to its high smoke point; canola or peanut oil works well too.
For the Sauce
• Garlic – Fresh garlic brings a savory depth to the dish; if needed, garlic powder can stand in but the flavor will differ.
• Ginger – Provides vibrant, peppery notes; always use fresh for the best results, though powdered ginger is an option.
• Dried Red Chilies – Contribute heat and smokiness; adjust quantity based on your preferred spice level in this General Tso Chicken.
• Soy Sauce – Adds a rich umami flavor; use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari if needed.
• Rice Vinegar – Imparts a necessary acidity to the sauce; white vinegar can be used as an alternative.
• Sugar – Balances the sauce with sweetness; consider using brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Hoisin Sauce – This adds complexity to the dish; skip it for a less sweet sauce but try to keep it in for authentic flavor.
• Cornstarch and Water (for the sauce) – Necessary for thickening; adjust based on how thick you like your sauce.
• Sesame Oil – A drizzle at the end adds a lovely nutty note; can be omitted if you don’t have it on hand.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For an added kick of heat; adjust the amount according to personal preference.
• Green Onions – Finely sliced for garnish, they add freshness; chives can replace them if desired.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for General Tso Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine cornstarch and all-purpose flour with salt and black pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture until evenly coated, ensuring a robust layer of batter. Set the coated chicken aside for about 10 minutes to allow the coating to adhere properly.

Step 2: Fry Chicken
In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding for optimal frying. Fry for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
After draining the fried chicken, discard the excess oil from the skillet, leaving about a tablespoon. Over medium heat, add minced garlic, ginger, and the dried red chilies to the skillet. Sauté these aromatics for about 30 seconds or until fragrant—be careful not to burn them as this can lead to bitterness in your General Tso Chicken.

Step 4: Mix Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, and water until well combined. This mixture will create the rich sauce that characterizes General Tso Chicken. Ensure there are no lumps from the cornstarch for a smooth texture, setting this sauce aside for later use.

Step 5: Simmer Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the sautéed garlic, ginger, and chilies. Turn the heat to medium-high and bring it to a simmer. Stir the sauce continuously for about 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency, becoming glossy and fragrant.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, carefully add the fried chicken back into the skillet. Toss the chicken in the sauce to ensure it’s evenly coated, letting it cook for an additional 2 minutes to absorb the flavors. This step will elevate your General Tso Chicken to a delightful medley of taste and texture.

Step 7: Finish with Sesame Oil
Remove the skillet from the heat and drizzle sesame oil over the dish for a nutty finish. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes to taste. Give everything one last gentle toss to combine, infusing the General Tso Chicken with aromatic richness.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
To serve, plate the General Tso Chicken over a bed of steamed rice for a complete meal. Garnish with freshly sliced green onions, adding a vibrant touch and a refreshing crunch. Dive into your homemade creation and relish each flavorful bite!

How to Store and Freeze General Tso Chicken

Room Temperature: Allow General Tso Chicken to cool completely before serving. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store leftover General Tso Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop for best results.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze General Tso Chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat in a skillet until warmed through.
Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat General Tso Chicken in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until just heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Avoid sogginess by not using a microwave alone!

Make Ahead Options

These General Tso Chicken preparations are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can coat and fry the chicken components up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container after cooling to preserve their crispiness. The savory sauce can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days—simply whisk the ingredients together and store them until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, reheat the sauce in a skillet, toss in the fried chicken, and allow it to absorb the flavors for a couple of minutes. This method ensures that your General Tso Chicken remains just as delicious and satisfying, giving you a quick, homemade meal at your fingertips!

What to Serve with General Tso Chicken

Elevate your dining experience by pairing the flavorful General Tso Chicken with dishes that give every bite a delightful twist.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Serves as the perfect bed for your General Tso Chicken. Its fluffy texture soaks up the tangy sauce, making each bite heavenly.
Garlic Bok Choy: Fresh and vibrant, this quick sautéed vegetable dish brings a hint of garlic that complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
Crispy Spring Rolls: The crunchy texture alongside the juicy chicken creates a wonderful contrast. Filled with vegetables, they add a fresh element to your meal.
Fried Rice with Vegetables: A hearty side that adds depth to your meal. The savory elements in the fried rice harmonize beautifully with the sweet and spicy notes of General Tso Chicken.
Asian Slaw: This crunchy salad, dressed in sesame vinaigrette, provides a refreshing balance to the rich main dish. It’s a great way to incorporate more veggies into your dinner.
Hot and sour soup: A comforting starter that peek into the authentic flavors of Asian cuisine. Its spicy and tangy notes prepare your palate for the feast ahead.
Chilled Sake or Green Tea: Pair your meal with a light drink that won’t overpower the dish. Chilled sake enhances the umami, while green tea cleanses the palate.
Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a tangy fruit sorbet offers a light and refreshing end to your meal. It’s a delightful way to cleanse your palate from the savory richness of the chicken.
Sesame Noodles: Creamy, nutty noodles coated in sauce are another crowd-pleasing companion. They bring a welcome texture that contrasts perfectly with your crispy chicken.

Expert Tips for General Tso Chicken

Crispiness Secret: Let the coated chicken sit for 10 minutes before frying to enhance the crispiness. This helps the coating adhere better during cooking.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in batches and avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain that desired crunchy texture in your General Tso Chicken.
Check Temperature: Make sure your oil is at the right temperature (350°F or 175°C) before adding the chicken. This prevents greasy chicken and achieves the perfect golden-brown color.
Prep Ingredients First: Have all your ingredients prepped and measured before you start cooking. This will keep your cooking flow smooth and hassle-free.
Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to tailor the heat by adding more or fewer dried red chilies or crushed red pepper flakes according to your taste. This lets you customize your General Tso Chicken experience!

General Tso Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your General Tso Chicken and experiment with these delightful variations that enhance flavor and fit various dietary needs!

Lean Protein: Swap chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lighter option. While the dish will be less rich, breasts still provide a satisfying texture.
Shrimp Delight: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist! Just remember to cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, adding a playful variation to this classic dish.
Gluten-Free: Replace soy sauce with gluten-free tamari and use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish.
Vegetable Boost: Mix in colorful bell peppers or nutritious broccoli during the sauté stage for added nutrition and a vibrant presentation. These veggies not only enhance flavors but also brighten the dish visually.
Vinegar Substitute: If you don’t have rice vinegar, try apples cider vinegar for a similar zing. The slight sweetness complements the other flavors beautifully.
Heat It Up: For those who crave more spice, add fresh sliced jalapeños or extra crushed red pepper flakes. Tailoring the heat level makes it even more enjoyable for spice lovers!
Sweetness Adjustment: Substitute brown sugar with honey or agave syrup for an alternative natural sweetness that transforms the overall flavor profile subtly.

Customizing your General Tso Chicken can lead to delicious discoveries, just like with my other favorites such as Paprika Chicken Cozy or Karaage Chicken Umami. Dive into the flavors and make this dish uniquely yours!

General Tso Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for General Tso Chicken?
I absolutely recommend using chicken thighs for General Tso Chicken! They provide a juicier, more flavorful bite than chicken breasts. However, if you’re looking for a leaner version, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be substituted, but keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly.

How should I store leftover General Tso Chicken?
To keep your General Tso Chicken fresh, allow it to cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stovetop to maintain that delicious crispiness!

Can I freeze General Tso Chicken?
Yes, you can definitely freeze General Tso Chicken! To do this, let the dish cool down completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in a skillet over medium heat for best results.

Why is my General Tso Chicken not crispy?
Very common! If your chicken isn’t as crispy as you’d like, make sure to let it sit for about 10 minutes after coating it with cornstarch and flour. This helps the coating adhere better during frying. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to sogginess while frying.

Can I make General Tso Chicken gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version of General Tso Chicken, simply substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Additionally, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour without sacrificing flavor.

What should I serve with General Tso Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or fried rice for a wholesome meal. You might also consider serving it alongside fresh vegetables or a crunchy salad to balance out the richness of the sauce. Enjoy every bite!