introduction
General Tso’s Chicken is a beloved dish that has become a staple in Chinese-American cuisine. Known for its crispy texture and sweet-and-spicy sauce, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to indulge in flavorful comfort food. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, General Tso’s Chicken is sure to impress.
why make this recipe
Making General Tso’s Chicken at home gives you the opportunity to customize the flavors and ingredients to your liking. You can adjust the spice levels, use fresh ingredients, and avoid any preservatives often found in takeout versions. Plus, it’s a fun cooking project that can bring the family together, allowing everyone to enjoy a delicious meal straight from your kitchen.
how to make 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 combining the flour (or cornstarch), paprika, and garlic salt in a mixing bowl. This will create a seasoned coating for your chicken.
- Toss the cubed chicken breasts in the seasoned flour until evenly coated.
- Heat oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the coated chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
- In a separate saucepan, prepare the sauce. Mix together the sugar, water, white distilled vinegar, salt, soy sauce, and red chili pepper flakes (if using). Bring this mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add the fried chicken pieces into the saucepan with the sauce, tossing to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Serve immediately for best results, garnishing with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
how to serve General Tso’s Chicken
General Tso’s Chicken is typically served hot, straight from the pan. It pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice or fried rice, allowing you to soak up the savory sauce. You may also add stir-fried vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, for a well-rounded meal. Don’t forget to top your dish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds to enhance both flavor and presentation.
how to store General Tso’s Chicken
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the chicken and sauce separate to maintain its crispy texture. When ready to eat, you can reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option, although this may soften the coating.
tips to make General Tso’s Chicken
- For an ultra-crispy texture, double fry the chicken. Fry it once until golden, let it cool for a minute, and then fry again for an extra crunch.
- Feel free to customize the sauce by adding more chili flakes for increased heat or adjusting the sugar if you prefer a sweeter or tangier flavor.
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying; if it’s not hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become soggy instead of crispy.
variation
You can make a healthier version of General Tso’s Chicken by baking the chicken instead of frying it. Simply coat the chicken, place it on a baking sheet, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and crispy. This variation retains the flavor while cutting down on calories. Additionally, consider swapping traditional chicken for tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian option.