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Growing up in Chicago, my kitchen was always bustling with the aromas of my Babcia’s Polish dishes mingling with the diverse scents of our vibrant neighborhood. But it wasn’t until I married my husband and started exploring beyond my culinary comfort zone that I stumbled upon General Tso’s Chicken. This dish, with its perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, quickly became a family favorite. My kids, Ella and Peter, love it just as much as their grandmother Elizabeth’s famous apple cake. It’s a delightful twist on comfort food that brings a little bit of adventure to our dinner table, and I’m excited to share this recipe with you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
General Tso’s Chicken is the perfect balance of crispy, tender chicken coated in a luscious sauce that’s both sweet and spicy. It’s a dish that satisfies cravings for something indulgent yet comforting. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home, allowing you to skip the takeout line. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress with its restaurant-quality taste.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and the egg. Mix well and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Coat the marinated chicken pieces in cornstarch, shaking off the excess.
- Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-6 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
- In a separate pan, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Once the sauce thickens, add the fried chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for any occasion
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
For the crispiest chicken, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. You can test this by dropping a small piece of batter into the oil; it should sizzle immediately. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil temperature. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes to suit your taste!
Amazon Affiliate Cooking Tools
When I make this recipe, my go-to tool is the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife for chopping the chicken and vegetables with ease. The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 is perfect for quickly preparing the rice to serve alongside this dish, making the whole process smoother and more enjoyable.
Variations and Substitutions
For a healthier twist, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Simply toss the chicken pieces in cornstarch and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes or until crispy. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition. If you’re gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
Serving Suggestions
General Tso’s Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice. For a complete meal, serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad. A cold glass of iced tea or a light beer complements the flavors perfectly.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken in advance. Fry the chicken just before serving to ensure it stays crispy.
What can I do with leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the chicken’s crispiness.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making and eating this General Tso’s Chicken as much as my family does. It’s a dish that brings warmth and a bit of culinary adventure to our table, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. Please feel free to share your cooking experiences and any fun twists you add to the recipe!
👉 I hope you loved making this General Tso’s Chicken—it’s a delightful balance of flavors that brings a touch of restaurant magic to your home kitchen. If you’re in the mood for more culinary adventures, why not try my Sweet and Sour Chicken or Orange Chicken Stir-Fry? For a cozy night in, my Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is a must-try. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group — and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
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General Tsos Chicken: 6 Must-Try Recipes for Dinner
A delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, perfect for a family dinner.
Keep the screen of your device on while you follow the steps.
- In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and the egg. Mix well and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Coat the marinated chicken pieces in cornstarch, shaking off the excess.
- Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-6 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
- In a separate pan, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Once the sauce thickens, add the fried chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.