general tso chicken recipe
The Best general tso chicken recipe
General Tso chicken is one of those recipes that just works every single time. It’s crispy, tangy, sweet, and a little spicy—everything you want in a takeout-style dish but made right in your own kitchen. I first tried making it years ago when my kids were little and begging for Chinese food, but I wanted something with less grease and more control over the ingredients. This version checks all the boxes: it’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough for company, and it reheats like a dream if you happen to have leftovers (which, let’s be honest, rarely happens in my house).
What I love most about this recipe is how balanced it is. The chicken gets a light cornstarch coating for that perfect crunch without deep-frying, and the sauce is a simple mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and a touch of chili paste—no mystery ingredients or excessive sugar. My kids love it because it’s familiar and fun, and I love it because it’s packed with protein and way healthier than the restaurant version. Plus, it pairs perfectly with steamed broccoli or a simple fried rice, making it a complete meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether it’s a busy Tuesday or a casual weekend dinner, this dish never disappoints.
General Tso’s Chicken
A classic Chinese-American dish featuring crispy fried chicken tossed in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce. This crowd-pleasing recipe delivers bold flavors with a perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 tbsp rice vinegar
- 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp minced ginger
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
- Steamed white rice (for serving)
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces with cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated. Dip each piece in beaten egg, letting excess drip off.
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2 Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
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3 In a wok or large skillet, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, honey, brown sugar, sriracha, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
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4 Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.
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5 Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss gently until fully coated. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with steamed rice.
🔧Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Paper towels
- Wok or large skillet
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How General Tso’s Chicken Works
General Tso’s chicken is one of those recipes that just works every time—crispy, sweet, and tangy with just enough heat to keep things interesting. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for company, and my family always asks for seconds. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a bigger gathering, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About General Tso’s Chicken
1. What is General Tso Chicken?
General Tso Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish featuring crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce. The dish is named after Zuo Zongtang (General Tso), a Qing dynasty military leader, though it was created in the U.S. and is not a traditional Chinese recipe.
2. How spicy is General Tso Chicken?
The spiciness varies depending on the recipe, but it’s typically mild to moderately spicy. The heat comes from dried red chili peppers or chili flakes, which can be adjusted to taste. For a milder version, reduce or omit the chili, and for extra heat, add more or include fresh chilies.
3. Can I make General Tso Chicken without deep-frying?
Yes! For a healthier version, you can bake or air-fry the chicken instead of deep-frying. Toss the chicken pieces in a little oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy. The sauce can be prepared the same way and tossed with the cooked chicken.
4. What can I serve with General Tso Chicken?
General Tso Chicken pairs well with steamed white or brown rice, fried rice, or noodles. For a complete meal, add side dishes like stir-fried vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas), egg rolls, or a simple cucumber salad. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for extra flavor.
5. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent drying. Avoid reheating in the oven, as it can make the chicken tough. The sauce may thicken when refrigerated, so stir in a little water or broth when reheating.
