General Tso’s Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish featuring crispy chicken pieces coated in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce. This homemade version allows you to enjoy this restaurant favorite in the comfort of your own kitchen. 

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 egg, beaten

Sauce Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

Additional Ingredients:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions

Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, cornstarch, and beaten egg. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Preparing the Sauce:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar until well combined.
2. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
4. Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Making the Sauce:

1. In the same skillet or wok, remove excess oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon for cooking the sauce.
2. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Pour in the prepared sauce mixture and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

Combining the Chicken and Sauce:

1. Add the fried chicken pieces to the skillet with the thickened sauce.
2. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 296 kcal
• Total Fat: 11.4 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.3 g
• Cholesterol: 62 mg
• Sodium: 1,330 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 23.5 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Sugars: 15 g
• Protein: 25 g

General Tso’s Chicken Overview

General Tso’s Chicken is a classic Chinese-American dish known for its crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce. It has become a staple in Chinese takeout cuisine, widely appreciated for its bold flavors and satisfying texture. While the authentic origins of this dish are often debated, its popularity in Western cuisine is undeniable. Many credit its creation to Chinese chefs in the United States who adapted traditional recipes to suit American palates. The signature sauce, typically a blend of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar, gives the chicken its characteristic glossy finish. Adding garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes enhances the complexity of the dish, creating a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Whether enjoyed as a main course or part of a larger meal, General Tso’s Chicken remains a favorite choice for family dinners and special occasions.

Flavor Profile and Texture

The flavor of General Tso’s Chicken is a harmonious combination of savory, sweet, and spicy elements. The deep-fried chicken offers a crunchy outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the sticky, flavorful sauce. The sauce’s sweetness comes from the addition of sugar, while the rice vinegar introduces a subtle tang. Soy sauce and hoisin sauce provide a deep umami flavor, enhancing the overall richness. Red pepper flakes or dried chilies can be adjusted to control the spice level, allowing the dish to cater to different taste preferences. Garlic and ginger contribute aromatic warmth, rounding out the sauce’s flavor profile. The chicken remains tender and juicy inside, ensuring each bite is bursting with deliciousness.

Cooking Methods and Tips

Achieving the perfect General Tso’s Chicken requires attention to detail during the frying and sauce preparation process. Coating the chicken in cornstarch before frying is essential for developing a crispy, golden exterior. Marinating the chicken beforehand enhances its flavor and tenderness. When frying, maintaining the oil temperature at around 350°F (175°C) is crucial for achieving even browning and preventing the chicken from becoming greasy. After frying, the chicken pieces should be set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. For the sauce, a well-balanced mixture of ingredients should be whisked together and simmered until thickened. Tossing the fried chicken in the sauce just before serving ensures it remains crispy while being fully coated in the flavorful glaze.

Popular Variations

While the traditional General Tso’s Chicken recipe remains a favorite, many variations exist to cater to different dietary preferences and culinary innovations. For a healthier option, some choose to bake or air fry the chicken instead of deep frying. This reduces the overall fat content while maintaining a satisfying crunch. Vegetarian versions often substitute tofu or cauliflower for the chicken, creating a plant-based alternative that retains the dish’s signature flavors. Additionally, adjusting the sauce ingredients can add a unique twist to the dish. Some recipes incorporate honey for a natural sweetness, while others may increase the spice level with additional red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

Serving Suggestions

General Tso’s Chicken pairs perfectly with steamed white rice, which soaks up the flavorful sauce and complements the crispy chicken. For a balanced meal, consider serving it with stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snow peas. The vibrant colors and fresh textures of the vegetables enhance the visual appeal and nutritional value of the dish. Fried rice or lo mein noodles are also popular side options, adding a savory and filling component to the meal. For a complete dining experience, General Tso’s Chicken can be served alongside egg rolls, dumplings, or wonton soup.

Nutritional Information

While General Tso’s Chicken is undeniably delicious, it is also relatively high in calories, fat, and sodium. On average, one serving contains approximately 296 calories, with 11.4 grams of total fat, including 2.3 grams of saturated fat. The cholesterol content is around 62 milligrams per serving, while the sodium levels can reach 1,330 milligrams, depending on the sauce’s preparation. The dish also provides around 23.5 grams of carbohydrates and 25 grams of protein, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. For a healthier alternative, using low-sodium soy sauce and reducing the sugar content can help lower the overall calorie and sodium intake.

Conclusion

General Tso’s Chicken is a testament to the adaptability and creativity of Chinese-American cuisine. Its crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces enveloped in a rich, flavorful sauce make it a standout dish that continues to captivate taste buds. Whether prepared for a family dinner or a festive gathering, General Tso’s Chicken offers a delightful dining experience that brings people together. By mastering the balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, home cooks can recreate this restaurant favorite in their own kitchens. Adjusting the recipe to suit individual preferences, experimenting with variations, or incorporating additional vegetables allows for endless customization. Embracing the joy of cooking General Tso’s Chicken at home not only satisfies cravings but also celebrates the enduring appeal of this iconic dish.