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When the craving for takeout strikes, there’s nothing quite like the satisfied smile that accompanies a plate of crispy General Tso’s Chicken. I can still hear the clattering of chopsticks and the laughter of friends around my dining table as we dug into this irresistible dish, brimming with bold flavors and an addictively crunchy texture. The marriage of sweet, savory, and spicy notes in a sticky sauce creates an explosion of taste that not only rivals any restaurant’s version but also warms the heart.

I first discovered my passion for making this classic Chinese-American favorite after a particularly tiring week. I just wanted something comforting, something homemade that could easily transform a dull evening into a celebratory feast. With just a few everyday ingredients and a bit of time, I crafted this delightful dish that soon became a staple in my kitchen. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or simply jazz up your weeknight meals, this recipe promises to deliver a delicious dose of joy and satisfaction. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into creating your very own Crispy General Tso’s Chicken with Homemade Sauce!

Why is General Tso’s Chicken so popular?

Familiar Flavor: This beloved dish brings together sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that cater to a variety of palates, making it a sure crowd-pleaser.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in no time, perfect for busy weekdays.
Crispy Delight: The crispy chicken, coated in a glossy, sticky sauce, creates a satisfying texture that will keep you coming back for more.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize the heat level or substitute ingredients, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this classic dish.
Comfort Food Upgrade: Ditch the takeout and indulge in homemade goodness that warms not just your belly, but your heart.

General Tso’s Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Cut into bite-sized cubes for even cooking and crispiness.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
• Eggs – Acts as a binding agent for cornstarch; can be omitted for a gluten-free version.
• Cornstarch – Creates a crispy coating; use half for dredging the chicken and half for thickening the sauce.
• Vegetable Oil – Ideal for frying; any neutral oil, like canola, will work as a substitute.

For the Sauce
• Reduced-Sodium Chicken Broth – Serves as the flavorful base; switch with vegetable broth for a lighter variation.
• Soy Sauce – Adds necessary saltiness and umami; I recommend using low-sodium soy sauce for balance.
• Hoisin Sauce – Provides sweetness and complexity; alternative sauces work if gluten-free is desired.
• Rice Vinegar – Balances the sauce’s sweetness; white vinegar can be used as a substitute if needed.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness; feel free to increase the amount for a sweeter sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Introduces heat; adjust based on your spice preference.
• Toasted Sesame Oil – Enhances the flavor profile with a touch of nuttiness.

For the Garnish
• Green Onions – Use both white and green parts for a fresh flavor and aesthetic appeal.
• Garlic – Minced for a rich, aromatic flavor; always fresh is best for impactful taste.
• Fresh Ginger – Offers warmth and depth; minced ginger works wonders in flavor infusion.

This ingredient list will guide you towards creating a sensational General Tso’s Chicken that your family and friends will love!

How to Make General Tso’s Chicken

Prepare the Chicken: Cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, then season with salt and pepper. Toss the cubes with beaten eggs, ensuring they’re well-coated.
Coat with Cornstarch: Sprinkle cornstarch over the chicken, covering each piece thoroughly. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful crispy texture.
Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot. You’ll know it’s ready when a small piece of chicken sizzles upon contact.
Fry the Chicken: Cook the chicken in batches for 5-6 minutes until golden and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even cooking. Once done, set the chicken aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together reduced-sodium chicken broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, and toasted sesame oil. Stir until well combined.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary and sauté the white parts of green onions, minced garlic, and fresh ginger until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Combine Sauce and Chicken: Add the sauce mixture to the skillet, bringing it to a simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Combine cornstarch with a splash of water to create a slurry, and stir it in to thicken the sauce.
Toss and Garnish: Return the crispy chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until all pieces are well-coated. Garnish with the green parts of green onions before serving.

Optional: Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for General Tso’s Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezer: Freeze General Tso’s Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.

Reheating: To maintain the sauce consistency, reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving General Tso’s Chicken out for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage. Always refrigerate promptly after serving.

General Tso’s Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste buds!

Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with extra-firm tofu, marinating to enhance flavor and texture for a delicious plant-based option. The tofu soaks up the sauce beautifully, offering a delightful bite.
Baked Chicken: For a healthier twist, bake the chicken pieces instead of frying. Toss in a little oil and season, then roast at 400°F until golden and crispy—your taste buds won’t miss the fryer!
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce. Just like the original, this version maintains all the savory richness—who says you need gluten for great flavor?
Crispier: Add a bit of baking powder to the cornstarch for an even crispier coating. This secret trick ensures each bite is delightfully crunchy—perfect for those who love a satisfying crunch.
Heat Adjustment: Increase spices by adding fresh sliced chilis or extra red pepper flakes for those who like a fiery kick. The heat balances beautifully with the sweetness of the sauce, elevating each mouthful.
Sweet & Sour Twist: Incorporate pineapple chunks into the sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor profile. The juicy bursts of pineapple add a refreshing contrast and a bit of tropical flair to your dish.
Add Vegetables: Toss in some broccoli or bell peppers during the sauté phase for added nutrition and vibrant colors. Not only do they add texture, but they also transform the dish into a more well-rounded meal.
Crispy Garlic: Fry garlic slices until golden and crispy to toss on top just before serving. This simple addition gives your dish a gourmet touch and a delightful crunch that’s sure to impress.

Expert Tips for General Tso’s Chicken

Crispy Coating: Ensure each chicken piece is fully coated in cornstarch for ultimate crispiness. Lack of coating can lead to soggy chicken.
Batch Cooking: Fry the chicken in small batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which ensures even cooking and prevents steaming.
Adjusting Sauce Thickness: If the sauce isn’t thickening as desired, mix a cornstarch slurry with water and incorporate it slowly, checking the consistency.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh garlic and ginger for a vibrant flavor boost that dried or jarred options simply can’t provide.
Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasoning levels based on your palate while making the General Tso’s Chicken, ensuring the final dish suits your taste.
Storage Secrets: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, and reheat with a little broth to maintain the delicious sauce’s consistency.

Make Ahead Options

These General Tso’s Chicken prep instructions are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken cubes in salt, pepper, and the beaten egg for up to 24 hours in advance, maintaining their tenderness and flavor. Prepare the sauce components—mixing the broth, soy sauce, hoisin, vinegar, sugars, and spices—up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the oil, fry the chicken, and combine it with your prepped sauce for that irresistible flavor. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making your weeknight meals a breeze!

What to Serve with General Tso’s Chicken?

Embarking on the flavorful adventure of General Tso’s Chicken opens the door to a delightful home-cooked feast. Let’s create a harmonious meal that builds on the sweet, spicy, and savory notes of this dish!

Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fluffy and fragrant base that soaks up the sauce beautifully, elevating each bite of crispy chicken.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds crunch and freshness, enhancing the meal’s nutrition and texture.
Cabbage Slaw: A tangy slaw with a hint of sesame oil brings a bright contrast to the richness of the chicken, keeping your palate refreshed.

As you plan your meal, consider serving a simple salad with a sesame dressing alongside the main course. It provides a delightful crunch while complementing the creamy textures of the chicken.

Egg Fried Rice: Savory with a hint of sweetness, this dish rounds out the meal while offering comfort and a familiar taste profile.
Hot and Sour Soup: A warming Chinese classic that brings spice and comforting depth, pairing beautifully with the bold flavors of General Tso’s Chicken.
Lychee Sorbet: For dessert, this light and refreshing sorbet cleanses the palate with a sweet tropical twist, making it a perfect ending to your meal.

Together, these pairings will create a well-rounded dining experience, ensuring every bite is enjoyed!

General Tso’s Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for making General Tso’s Chicken?
Boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook evenly and remain juicy. You can cut them into bite-sized cubes for the perfect crispy texture. If you prefer a more flavorful option, chicken thighs can be used, but remember they may require slightly longer cooking time.

How should I store leftover General Tso’s Chicken?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled down completely before sealing to minimize moisture build-up. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Always reheat with a little broth to keep the sauce from thickening too much.

Can I freeze General Tso’s Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth.

What if the sauce is too thick when I make General Tso’s Chicken?
If your sauce is too thick, don’t worry! Simply mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the sauce while it’s simmering, stirring continuously until it reaches your desired thickness. An optimal sauce should be glossy and coat the chicken lightly.

Can I make General Tso’s Chicken gluten-free?
Certainly! To make this dish gluten-free, simply replace soy sauce and hoisin sauce with gluten-free alternatives. Ensure that cornstarch is also labeled as gluten-free, and you can skip the eggs or use a substitute if needed. Everyone should be able to enjoy this hearty meal!

Are there any tips for achieving extra crispy chicken?
For the crispiest chicken, make sure each piece is thoroughly coated with cornstarch and fry in small batches. This prevents overcrowding and steaming, allowing each piece to reach that golden crispiness. Also, letting the chicken rest on a paper towel-lined plate after frying helps absorb excess oil.