***
General Tso’s Chicken is a beloved dish that has captured the hearts of many with its sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavor profile. This dish is often associated with American Chinese cuisine, known for its crispy chicken coated in a tangy sauce that perfectly balances the sweetness with a hint of heat. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, preparing General Tso’s Chicken at home can be a delightful experience that adds a flavorful dimension to your weeknight dinners.
***
Making this recipe yourself allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your preference. General Tso’s Chicken is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fun dish to prepare for gatherings or family dinners. By creating this dish at home, you can enjoy its deliciousness without having to order takeout, saving both time and expense while still satisfying your cravings.
***
How to Make General Tso’s Chicken
Creating this iconic dish requires a few simple steps that will have your taste buds dancing. Here’s how you can whip up a batch of General Tso’s Chicken:
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts (cubed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp garlic salt
- 1 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup white distilled vinegar
- 1 tsp salt
- 6 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp red chili pepper flakes (optional)
Directions:
- Begin by seasoning the cubed chicken breasts with garlic salt, paprika, and a little bit of salt for flavor.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour (or cornstarch) with the seasoned chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-coated.
- Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat and carefully add the coated chicken cubes. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, then remove from heat and set aside.
- In a separate pot, prepare the sauce by mixing sugar, water, white distilled vinegar, soy sauce, and red chili pepper flakes. Bring this mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan, pour the sauce over it, and toss to evenly coat. Allow everything to cook together for a few more minutes.
- Remove from heat and serve hot.
***
How to Serve General Tso’s Chicken
General Tso’s Chicken is best served over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions can also enhance the presentation and add a touch of freshness to your meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with small plates of egg rolls or spring rolls as appetizers.
How to Store General Tso’s Chicken
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave or pan-fry until heated through. For best results, avoid soaking the chicken in the sauce when storing to maintain its crispy texture.
Tips to Make General Tso’s Chicken
- For extra crunch, you can double-fry the chicken by frying it twice for a more crispy texture.
- Adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the amount of red chili pepper flakes based on your preference.
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, use cornstarch and gluten-free soy sauce to cater to dietary needs.
Variation
Feel free to experiment with different proteins such as shrimp or tofu, or add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for a delicious twist on the classic General Tso’s Chicken. You can also consider making a lighter version by baking the chicken instead of frying it for a healthier alternative.