As the sun dips below the horizon, the comforting aroma of ginger and garlic fills my kitchen, making it feel like a cozy haven. I recently found myself craving the bold flavors of takeout but with a homemade twist. That’s when I discovered the magic of Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken. With its perfectly caramelized sauce and tender chicken, this dish not only satisfies my cravings but is also a breeze to whip up, cutting out the stress of long prep times.
Whether you’re a busy chef in need of a quick weeknight meal or simply someone looking to escape the cycle of fast food, this recipe is here to elevate dinner. It effortlessly combines convenience with flavors that dance on the palate—a delightful marriage of sweet, savory, and a hint of heat. So, grab your Instant Pot and let’s transform dinner from mundane to magnificent in just 10 minutes!
Why is Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: Your taste buds will be treated to a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors that rival takeout.
Quick Cooking: With just 10 minutes of cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
Easy Preparation: The step-by-step instructions make it simple, even for those new to cooking or using the Instant Pot.
Versatile Serving: Pair it with steamed rice or fresh veggies for a complete meal that suits everyone’s taste.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Impress your family or guests with this restaurant-quality meal that everyone will rave about!
Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken thighs – Tender and flavorful, these thighs provide the perfect base for our General Tso’s Chicken.
- Cornstarch – This helps create a crispy coating on the chicken when sautéing.
For the Sauce
- General Tso’s sauce – This is the star of the dish, bringing that sweet, savory flavor we love!
- Rice vinegar – Adds a nice tang that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
- Soy sauce – Brings a depth of flavor; feel free to use low-sodium for a healthier option.
- Hoisin sauce – This contributes to the rich, sweet notes in the sauce.
- Granulated sugar – Enhances the sweetness in the sauce; you can substitute with honey if desired.
- Water – Helps to dissolve the sauces and creates the right consistency.
- Sesame oil – Adds a nutty flavor that elevates the entire dish.
For the Aromatics
- Fresh ginger – This brings warmth and flavor; freshly grated is always best!
- Garlic – Crucial for that aromatic base, adding depth to the dish.
- Red chili flakes – Optional, but they provide a kick for those who enjoy a little heat.
For Serving
- Cooked rice – A must to soak up that delicious sauce – jasmine or basmati works great!
- Toasted sesame seeds – These add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor on top.
- Chopped green onion – Enhances color and freshness when sprinkled on top.
Get ready to savor the irresistible taste of Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken, all while whipping it up in no time!
How to Make Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken
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Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-size pieces (about 1 inch) and coat them with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch for a perfect crispy texture.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Once hot, toss in 2 tablespoons of grated ginger and 2 cloves of minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
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Brown the Chicken: Add the coated chicken pieces to the pot and cook them, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
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Mix in the Sauce: Pour in 1 cup of General Tso’s sauce and sprinkle 1 teaspoon of red chili flakes (if using) over the chicken. Stir well to combine everything, ensuring each piece is coated in that luscious sauce.
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Cook Under Pressure: Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. It’s time to let those flavors meld together beautifully!
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Release the Pressure: After the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release of pressure for 5 minutes, then do a quick release for any remaining pressure before opening the lid carefully.
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Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water. Stir this slurry into the sauce in the pot to thicken it up slightly, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until well blended.
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Serve it Up: Dish out the chicken over a bed of warm cooked rice. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and a generous handful of chopped green onion for that extra flavor and color!
Optional: Serve with steamed broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prep the chicken by cutting it into bite-sized pieces and coating it with the cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Additionally, you can mix the sauce ingredients (General Tso’s sauce, rice vinegar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil) and store the mixture in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the ginger and garlic, add the prepped chicken, pour in the sauce, and follow the cooking instructions. This way, you’ll have that restaurant-quality dish ready with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the chicken cool down before sealing to retain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze the chicken in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Label the bag with the date for easy tracking!
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it, covered, for about 1-2 minutes.
Serving Suggestions: For a quick meal, serve with fresh rice or steamed veggies when reheating—this Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken is just as delightful the second time around!
What to Serve with Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken?
Elevate your homemade Asian feast with delightful sides that complement every bold bite of this savory chicken.
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Steamed Broccoli: Adds a vibrant green and crunchy texture, balancing the richness of the chicken with fresh nutrients.
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Fried Rice: A classic pairing, this dish offers a hearty, savory side that soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully.
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Crispy Egg Rolls: These delightful appetizers not only enhance the Asian theme but also provide a satisfying crunch with each bite. Dipping them in sweet and sour sauce takes indulgence to another level!
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Garlic Noodles: Rich and garlicky, these noodles make the perfect vessel for the sauce and enhance the overall flavor profile of your meal.
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Asian Slaw: Made with crunchy cabbage and vibrant carrots, this slaw offers a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the chicken.
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Sesame Green Beans: Tossed in sesame oil and sprinkled with sesame seeds, these beans add a nutty flavor that’s a lovely complement to the General Tso’s Chicken.
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Hot and Sour Soup: The perfect starter, this warming soup adds a complex layer of flavors and pairs well with the bold taste of your chicken.
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Chilled Sake: This smooth, slightly sweet rice wine enhances the flavors of your meal, making it a sophisticated beverage choice to enjoy with your dish.
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Green Tea Ice Cream: For dessert, this creamy treat is a light and refreshing end to your meal, beautifully contrasting the rich flavors and spice of the chicken.
Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken Variations
Feel free to personalize this dish and make it uniquely yours—there are so many delicious twists to explore!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free cornstarch to keep the flavors intact without the gluten.
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Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version that absorbs all the savory flavors of the sauce.
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Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli during the sauté step for an extra crunch and burst of color.
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Sweet and Sour Twist: Mix pineapple chunks into the sauce for a hint of sweetness that complements the spicy notes beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Introduce sliced fresh chili peppers or increase the amount of red chili flakes to ramp up the heat!
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Hoisin Honey: Drizzle a little honey into the sauce for an extra layer of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements.
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Crispy Finish: Broil the chicken for a couple of minutes after cooking to create a caramelized, crispy layer that will have your taste buds dancing!
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Szechuan Style: Add Szechuan peppercorns and a dash more chili flakes for a unique flavor profile and some delightful heat.
Expert Tips for Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken
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Chicken Choice: Use thigh meat for tenderness; breast meat can dry out easily during cooking.
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Coating Mistake: Coat chicken with cornstarch to ensure a crispy texture; skipping this step can result in a chewy bite.
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Flavor Balance: Adjust the sweetness and spiciness in the General Tso’s sauce according to preference—taste before serving!
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Natural Release: Allowing a natural pressure release for 5 minutes sets the flavors and moisture; don’t rush this step.
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Thickening Tip: Mix cornstarch with water before adding to the sauce to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth consistency.
Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using chicken thighs because they stay juicy and tender during cooking, making them perfect for this dish. Chicken breasts can dry out easily, especially under pressure.
How should I store leftovers of Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the chicken to cool down before sealing it to help maintain its freshness and flavor.
Can I freeze Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken?
Very! You can freeze this chicken in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the bag with the date, so you can easily track its freshness!
How do I reheat the chicken after freezing?
To reheat, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight. Warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. You can also microwave it, covered, for about 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure it is warmed evenly.
What if my sauce doesn’t thicken properly?
No worries! If the sauce is too thin, make a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water. Stir this into the sauce and allow it to cook on sauté mode for 1-2 minutes until thickened. Just remember to mix the cornstarch with water before adding it to avoid lumps!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! If you’re serving this dish to someone with an allergy, be cautious of the soy sauce and sesame oil, as they can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. If you’re making this for pets, it’s best to avoid giving them any human food with sauces, as they can contain ingredients that are harmful to animals.
Savory Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken in Just 10 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the chicken thighs into bite-size pieces and coat them with cornstarch.
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add vegetable oil. Once hot, toss in grated ginger and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Add the coated chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and no longer pink.
- Pour in the General Tso's sauce and sprinkle red chili flakes over the chicken. Stir to combine.
- Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- After cooking, allow for a natural release of pressure for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release.
- Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir into the sauce in the pot to thicken.
- Serve the chicken over cooked rice and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.