As the aroma of sizzling chicken fills the kitchen, memories of countless takeout runs come rushing back. But why settle for store-bought when you can whip up a delightful homemade dish? This General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is both satisfying and super simple, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. With tender, crispy chicken pieces enveloped in a sweet and spicy sauce, you’ll create a meal that’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also a healthier alternative to fast food. Plus, with a gluten-free option available, everyone at your table can dig in worry-free! Curious how such deliciousness can be achieved in under half an hour? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe together!
Why is This General Tso’s Chicken Recipe Amazing?
Simplicity at its finest: In just 25 minutes, you can have a meal that rivals takeout, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor-packed goodness: The balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors guarantees every bite is bursting with taste.
Flexible options: Whether you prefer a classic fry or a healthier oven-baked version, this recipe adapts to your needs, ensuring everyone is satisfied.
Gluten-free alternative: Substituting cornstarch for flour, everyone can enjoy this dish without worry.
Crowd-pleaser: This General Tso’s Chicken is ideal for family gatherings or impressing guests, making it your new go-to recipe! Check out my Garlic Butter Chicken for another delicious option.
General Tso’s Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Use boneless, skinless chicken for tender bites that fry up perfectly.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and crispiness; substitute with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
• Paprika – Adds a touch of color and mild flavor to the coating.
• Garlic Salt – Enhances the overall taste; you can substitute with fine sea salt and fresh garlic for a deeper flavor.
For the Sauce
• Sugar – The key sweetness base that balances the sauce; honey can be used as a substitute for a unique twist.
• Water – Adjusts the sauce consistency for the perfect glaze; no substitution necessary.
• White Distilled Vinegar – Adds acidity and balances sweetness; apple cider vinegar works as a substitute.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor; no substitution needed.
• Soy Sauce – Provides crucial umami and saltiness to the dish; tamari is a gluten-free alternative.
• Red Chili Pepper Flakes – Optional for heat; feel free to adjust to your heat preference or use fresh chili instead for more spice.
Elevate your homemade General Tso’s Chicken Recipe to delicious heights with these simple yet effective ingredients!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Begin by cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes. In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour or cornstarch with paprika and garlic salt. Toss the chicken pieces in the mixture until evenly coated, ensuring each piece is covered thoroughly for that crispy exterior you crave in this General Tso’s Chicken recipe.
Step 2: Fry Chicken
In a large frying pan, heat up about half an inch of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each side for 3-6 minutes until the chicken turns golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Step 3: Make Sauce
While the chicken is frying, start preparing the sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, water, white distilled vinegar, salt, soy sauce, and red chili pepper flakes. Mix until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a vibrant sauce ready to enhance your General Tso’s Chicken. Set aside so the flavors can meld while you finish frying the chicken.
Step 4: Combine
After frying all the chicken, reduce the heat in the pan to medium. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring an even coating. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring, then lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 12 minutes. This simmering will thicken the sauce, allowing it to cling beautifully to each piece of chicken.
Step 5: Serve
Once the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat. To elevate your dish, garnish your General Tso’s Chicken with sesame seeds or chopped green onions. Serve the chicken hot, accompanied by steamed rice or fresh vegetables, for a delightful meal that’s both inviting and satisfying. Enjoy the amazing flavors you’ve created right at home!
Tips for the Best General Tso’s Chicken
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Dredging Essential: Make sure each chicken piece is well-coated in flour or cornstarch to achieve the ultimate crispiness without any sogginess.
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Oil Temperature: Always ensure the oil is properly heated before adding chicken. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
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Batch Frying: Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking, preventing crowded, unevenly cooked pieces.
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Sauce Thickness: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer without a lid. Just remember to keep stirring to avoid burning!
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Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to enhance the sauce with fresh ginger or garlic, elevating the overall flavor profile of your General Tso’s Chicken recipe.
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Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently for the best texture!
Storage Tips for General Tso’s Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled before sealing to preserve freshness.
Freezer: Freeze General Tso’s Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best results, separate the chicken and sauce before freezing to maintain texture.
Reheating: To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Make-Ahead: If preparing ahead, fry the chicken and store it separately in the fridge, then combine with sauce just before serving for optimal crispiness!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing this General Tso’s Chicken Recipe ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate and bread the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its texture. Additionally, you can pre-make the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat the sauce on the stovetop before combining it with the fried chicken. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the chicken as directed, then mix it with the warmed sauce for a quick and delicious meal that’s ready in no time!
General Tso’s Chicken Recipe Variations
Don’t hesitate to get creative! Elevate this homemade dish with some exciting twists and tweaks.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch for a gluten-free option that still delivers on flavor and crunch.
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Sweet & Spicy: Add a drizzle of sriracha or some chopped fresh chilies for a fiery kick that perfectly complements the sweetness of the sauce.
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Oven-Baked: For a healthier spin, coat the chicken and bake it at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness. Enjoy guilt-free, crispy chicken without the extra oil!
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in some bell peppers or broccoli during the last few minutes of simmering for added color and nutrition. This not only enhances the dish visually but also packs it with additional flavor.
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Honey Twist: Swap sugar for honey in the sauce to impart a delightful floral sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the spicy notes.
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Crockpot Simmer: If you prefer a hands-off approach, use a crockpot. Brown the chicken first, then combine it with the sauce and cook on low for 6-8 hours for tender, flavorful chicken.
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Sesame Crunch: For a nutty flavor, add toasted sesame oil to the sauce or garnish with toasted sesame seeds. This small addition brings depth and nuance to your dish.
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Garlic Infusion: Elevate the flavor profile by adding minced garlic or fresh ginger to the sauce for an aromatic boost that harmonizes with the other ingredients beautifully.
For more delicious chicken ideas, don’t miss my comforting Cranberry Orange Chicken or give the sweet and spicy allure of Sweet Chili Chicken a try!
What to Serve with Better-than-Takeout General Tso’s Chicken
Pairing the vibrant flavors of General Tso’s Chicken with delightful sides creates an unforgettable meal experience.
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Steamed Broccoli: The tender, bright green florets add a fresh crunch, balancing the savory sweetness of the chicken.
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Fried Rice: A classic side, packed with vegetables and a hint of soy sauce, complements the bold flavors beautifully. Plus, it soaks up any extra sauce wonderfully!
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Sesame Noodles: Cold or warm, the nutty flavor of sesame oil harmonizes with the spicy undertones, creating a delightful contrast to the chicken’s taste.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites filled with vegetables are perfect for dipping into sweet chili sauce, making for a fun and textural pairing.
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Egg Drop Soup: A warm bowl of this silky soup offers comfort alongside your chicken, with its delicate flavors highlighting the main dish.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing, light, and slightly tangy, this salad provides a wonderful cooling effect to balance the heat of the General Tso’s Chicken.
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Jasmine Rice: Serve the chicken over fluffy jasmine rice, allowing its fragrant nature to absorb the sticky sauce for a deliciously cohesive dish.
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Green Tea: Sipping on this aromatic beverage before or after your meal helps cleanse the palate, enhancing your overall dining experience.
General Tso’s Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for General Tso’s Chicken?
For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They provide tender and juicy pieces that fry beautifully, ensuring each bite is flavorful and satisfying. If you prefer dark meat, boneless chicken thighs also work wonderfully and can add extra moisture.
How should I store leftover General Tso’s Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled down a bit before sealing it up to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze General Tso’s Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze General Tso’s Chicken for up to 2 months. It’s best to separate the chicken and sauce before freezing. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop until warm.
What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth during simmering to achieve the desired consistency. For a thinner sauce, let it simmer longer without a lid to allow more moisture to evaporate. For best results, stir occasionally and keep an eye on it!
Is there a gluten-free option for this General Tso’s Chicken Recipe?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch for dredging the chicken, and use tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious dish without any worries about gluten!
Delicious General Tso’s Chicken Recipe in 25 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes. In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour or cornstarch with paprika and garlic salt. Toss the chicken pieces in the mixture until evenly coated.
- In a large frying pan, heat up about half an inch of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each side for 3-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- While the chicken is frying, whisk together sugar, water, white distilled vinegar, salt, soy sauce, and red chili pepper flakes in a separate bowl until the sugar dissolves.
- After frying the chicken, pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring, then let it simmer uncovered for about 12 minutes.
- Once the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish your General Tso’s Chicken with sesame seeds or chopped green onions and serve hot.
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