General Tso’s Chicken

General Tso’s Chicken is a beloved Chinese-American dish known for its irresistible combination of crispy chicken pieces tossed in a sticky, sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy sauce. It’s a classic takeout favorite that you can now recreate at home with this easy and delicious recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

General Tso’s Chicken is the perfect harmony of flavor and texture. The crispy fried chicken absorbs the bold, glossy sauce, making every bite a burst of sweet, savory, and spicy deliciousness. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or when you just want to skip the takeout without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s easier to make than you think!

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• Cornstarch
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Dried red chilies
• Green onions (optional for garnish)
• Soy sauce
• Hoisin sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Brown sugar
• Chicken broth or water
• Cornstarch slurry (for thickening)

directions

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks.
2. In a bowl, mix cornstarch and flour, then dip the chicken pieces into beaten eggs followed by the flour mixture.
3. Heat oil in a wok or deep pan. Fry the chicken in batches until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a separate pan, sauté garlic, ginger, and dried red chilies until aromatic.
5. Add soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens.
7. Toss the fried chicken into the sauce and stir until well coated.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot with rice or steamed vegetables.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Make it spicier: Add more dried chilies or a touch of chili oil.
• Lower sugar: Reduce the amount of brown sugar or substitute with a sugar alternative.
• Vegetarian version: Use crispy tofu or cauliflower instead of chicken.
• Gluten-free: Use tamari in place of soy sauce and ensure all sauces are gluten-free.
• Baked option: Bake the coated chicken at 425°F until crispy, flipping halfway through.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or use the microwave in short intervals. For best results and texture, reheat on the stovetop.

FAQs

What is General Tso’s Chicken?

It’s a popular Chinese-American dish featuring crispy fried chicken tossed in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce.

Is General Tso’s Chicken very spicy?

It has a mild to moderate heat, but you can easily adjust the spice level by adding or reducing dried chilies.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, both chicken breasts and thighs work well in this recipe depending on your preference.

What’s the difference between General Tso’s Chicken and Orange Chicken?

General Tso’s has a spicier, tangier sauce, while Orange Chicken is sweeter and citrus-based.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and fry the chicken in advance, but combine them just before serving to keep the chicken crispy.

Can I air fry the chicken instead of deep frying?

Yes, air frying works well for a lighter version. Coat the chicken and cook at 400°F until crispy.

What kind of oil is best for frying?

Use a neutral, high smoke point oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Can I freeze General Tso’s Chicken?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. The texture may change slightly when reheated.

What should I serve with General Tso’s Chicken?

Steamed rice, fried rice, lo mein, or steamed broccoli are great options.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce until it coats the back of a spoon.

Conclusion

General Tso’s Chicken is a bold, satisfying dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. With its perfect blend of sweetness, tang, and spice, and a crispy texture that holds up to the sauce, this recipe is sure to become a staple. Give it a try and enjoy a timeless takeout classic made from scratch.

Print