Name: General Tso's Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 3 tbsp soy sauce (light or all-purpose); 1 tbsp hoisin sauce; 1 tbsp rice vinegar (sub white wine vinegar); 2 tsp chilli paste (any); 1 tsp sesame oil (toasted preferably); 3 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp cornflour/cornstarch; 3/4 cup chicken stock/broth (low sodium); 600 g chicken thighs (boneless skinless, cut into 2.5cm / 1" pieces); 1 tsp ginger (finely grated); 1 tsp garlic (finely grated); 1 cup cornflour/cornstarch; 1-4 cups oil (for frying (peanut, vegetable or canola)); 2 tbsp oil ((peanut, vegetable or canola)); 2 tsp ginger (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped); 1/2 tsp red chilli flakes; finely sliced green onion; sesame seeds

Introduction to General Tso’s Chicken

General Tso’s Chicken is more than just a popular dish; it’s a cultural phenomenon. This sweet, savory, and slightly spicy dish appeals to the taste buds of many, particularly young professionals who are often in search of convenient yet flavorful meals. Quick to prepare, it perfectly suits the fast-paced lifestyle of those balancing work, social life, and personal goals.

Why is General Tso’s Chicken a favorite among young professionals?

One of the reasons for its popularity among young professionals is its versatility. Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or served at a casual dinner party, it fits seamlessly into various dining contexts. The dish’s appealing crunch and vibrant sauce also make it a star player when ordering takeout after a long day at the office.

Moreover, it offers a delightful blend of flavors that hits just the right notes. The balance of sweetness from the brown sugar, heat from the chili paste, and the umami from soy sauce creates a culinary balance that keeps people coming back for more.

Curious to dive deeper into the world of General Tso’s Chicken? Check out this comprehensive guide for a fun history behind this beloved dish!

In short, General Tso’s Chicken reflects the spirit of modern dining: quick, rewarding, and packed with flavor. It's a mainstay in many kitchens—not just for its taste, but for the joy it brings to everyday meals.

Ingredients for General Tso’s Chicken

Creating a delicious General Tso's Chicken requires a few must-have ingredients alongside some optional garnishes that elevate the dish. Here’s what you’ll need!

Essential Ingredients for the Dish

To whip up this takeout classic, gather the following essentials:

Soy Sauce: This is the backbone of the sauce. Use light or all-purpose to keep that vibrant flavor.
Hoisin Sauce: Adds a wonderful sweetness.
Rice Vinegar: Provides a tangy kick.
Chili Paste: For that perfect spicy note.
Brown Sugar: Balances out the flavors beautifully.
Cornstarch: Ensures the chicken gets that oh-so-crispy coating.
Chicken Thighs: Juicy and tender, they fry up perfectly for this dish.

Don't forget the ginger and garlic for that aromatic flair!

Optional Garnishes for Added Flavor

While optional, garnishes can take your General Tso’s Chicken to the next level:

Sliced Green Onions: Adds freshness and a pop of color.
Sesame Seeds: Bring in a delightful nutty crunch.

Feel free to customize your dish with these extras for a truly restaurant-quality experience. Enjoy your cooking adventure! For more tips, check out this article on essential Asian cooking ingredients.

Preparing General Tso’s Chicken

Making your very own General Tso’s Chicken at home is not only satisfying but also a fantastic way to impress friends and family with your culinary skills. Ready to dive in? Let’s go step by step to ensure you achieve that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crispy goodness.

Prepare the sauce and marinade

Start by blending together the sauce and marinade for your chicken. In a bowl, combine:

3 tablespoons of light soy sauce
1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
2 teaspoons of chili paste (Sambal Oelek is an excellent choice)
1 teaspoon of sesame oil
3 tablespoons of brown sugar
1 tablespoon of cornflour
¾ cup of low-sodium chicken stock

Mix this well, and you'll have a delicious base to infuse your chicken with flavor.

Marinate the chicken

Take about two tablespoons of your sauce and mix it with 600 grams (1.4 lb) of boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into 2.5cm or 1-inch pieces). Add 1 teaspoon each of finely grated ginger and garlic for that aromatic kick. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes—this step is essential for maximum flavor.

Coat the chicken in cornflour

Once marinated, it’s time to coat the chicken. Pour 1 cup of cornflour into a bowl and toss the chicken pieces in it until they're well-coated. Don’t worry if it seems like a lot; this is what gives your chicken its signature crunch! After coating, shake off the excess cornflour in a colander.

Heat the oil for frying

While your chicken is resting in its crispy coat, heat about 2 centimeters (or roughly ⅘ inches) of peanut, vegetable, or canola oil in a deep skillet. Bring the oil to about 200°C (390°F) for that ideal frying temperature. If you're looking to cut down on oil, consider using less for shallow frying.

Fry the chicken for that perfect crunch

Carefully add your chicken to the hot oil and fry for about 3 minutes, flipping halfway through until each piece is golden brown and crispy. Once done, drain the chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

Prepare the stir fry sauce

In a fresh skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil, then add 2 teaspoons of chopped ginger, 2 cloves of chopped garlic, and ½ teaspoon of red chili flakes. Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Pour the reserved sauce mixture in and let it simmer until it thickens slightly.

Combine chicken and sauce

Now, toss your crispy fried chicken into the thickened sauce, mixing quickly to ensure every piece is coated. The quicker you do this, the crunchier your chicken will remain!

Garnish and serve

Finally, transfer your General Tso’s Chicken to a serving plate. Top it off with finely sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an appealing finish. Serve it hot with a side of your favorite rice, and watch it disappear!

Bam! You’ve just created a delightful dish that is both fulfilling and utterly delicious. Enjoy your homemade General Tso’s Chicken! Want to explore more recipes? Check out some fantastic ideas on Serious Eats for cooking inspiration!

Variations on General Tso’s Chicken

Healthier Alternatives with Baked Chicken

If you're looking to lighten up your meal, consider using baked chicken instead of fried. Simply marinate the chicken pieces as usual, coat them with cornflour, and place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a crispy texture without the extra oil. This method retains all the delicious flavors of General Tso’s Chicken while significantly cutting calories.

Vegetarian Options Using Tofu or Veggies

For those who prefer a plant-based option, tofu or a mix of colorful vegetables can shine. Marinate firm tofu slices or your veggie of choice in the same flavorful sauce. Sauté them in a little oil until crispy and toss in the sauce just like the traditional recipe. You can even mix in bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for added nutrition and crunch. This delightful spin on General Tso’s Chicken caters to all palates while keeping it wholesome!

For more alternatives, check out healthyeating.org.

Cooking tips and notes for General Tso’s Chicken

Tips for achieving a crispy texture

For perfectly crispy General Tso’s Chicken, the coating is key! Ensure that after dusting the chicken pieces with cornflour, you shake off the excess. This ensures a light, even coating. When frying, maintain the oil temperature at around 200°C (390°F)—this allows the chicken to crunch up beautifully without absorbing too much oil. If you have the patience, consider frying the chicken in batches to prevent overcrowding, which can result in soggy pieces.

Storage advice for leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. While reheating, you may find the chicken loses its original crispiness. To revitalize it, a quick pop in the oven for a few minutes can help regain some crunch. Adding a splash of water to the sauce can also revive it if it thickens too much during storage. Enjoy your General Tso’s Chicken even on day two!

Serving Suggestions for General Tso’s Chicken

What to Pair with General Tso’s Chicken

To elevate your General Tso’s Chicken experience, consider serving it alongside fluffy white rice or fragrant jasmine rice. The mild flavor of rice beautifully balances the chicken's sweet, savory, and spicy notes. For a nutty twist, try pairing it with sautéed broccoli or steamed green beans, which add a lovely crunch and vibrant color. If you're feeling adventurous, why not whip up a refreshing cucumber salad to cut through the richness?

Presentation Tips for an Appealing Dish

Making your dish visually appealing goes a long way. Serve your General Tso’s Chicken in a large, shallow bowl for a restaurant-like feel. Sprinkle with freshly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a pop of color and texture. A garnish of bright red chili slices can also provide a striking contrast. Lastly, adding a side of colorful veggies can turn your meal into a vibrant feast for the eyes. For additional serving inspiration, check out this guide on plate presentation.

Time Breakdown for General Tso’s Chicken

Preparation Time

Gather your ingredients and get everything ready—this should take about 15 minutes. Prepping the marinade, cutting the chicken, and measuring out each ingredient will set you up for success.

Cooking Time

Once you’ve prepped, the cooking time is quick—only 10 minutes! This is when the magic happens as you fry the chicken to golden perfection and toss it in that delicious sauce.

Total Time

From start to finish, you’re looking at a total of 25 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.

For more insights on ingredient prep, check out this guide on marinating chicken to maximize flavor. Enjoy your cooking experience!

Nutritional Facts for General Tso’s Chicken

When it comes to General Tso’s Chicken, it’s essential to keep an eye on nutrition if you're enjoying this American Chinese favorite. Here are some key highlights you might find interesting!

Calories per serving

Each serving of General Tso’s Chicken packs approximately 465 calories. While that's a reasonable treat, especially alongside your favorite rice, it’s good to be mindful of portion sizes if you're watching your intake.

Protein content

With about 32 grams of protein per serving, this dish is a fantastic way to meet your protein needs. Chicken thighs, being a rich source of protein, help keep you full and satisfied for longer.

Key nutrients

This delightful dish isn’t just about taste; it offers some essential nutrients:

Fat: 28g (including 14g saturated fat)
Sodium: 974mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 10g

Incorporating General Tso’s Chicken into a balanced meal can help you enjoy a satisfying blend of flavors while getting valuable nutrients. For those looking to delve deeper into the nutrition of your favorite chicken dishes, check out Healthline's guide on chicken nutrition for more insights!

Indulge in this crispy, tangy delight and enjoy the robust flavors while staying aware of your nutritional intake.

FAQs about General Tso’s Chicken

What can I substitute for chicken thighs?

If chicken thighs aren’t your thing, don’t worry! You can easily swap them for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenderloins. Just keep in mind that breasts can dry out faster, so consider marinating them with a touch of baking soda for added moisture, as suggested in the recipe. This technique allows flexibility without sacrificing flavor!

Can I make General Tso’s Chicken in advance?

Absolutely! Preparing General Tso’s Chicken in advance can save you time on busy weeknights. You can marinate the chicken a day prior and keep the sauce refrigerated until you’re ready to cook. While the chicken may lose some crispiness upon reheating, you'll still enjoy the delightful flavors. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to maintain the sauce consistency.

Are there gluten-free options available?

For those with gluten sensitivities, making gluten-free General Tso’s Chicken is definitely doable! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce, like tamari, and ensure any other ingredients, such as the chicken stock or sauces, are gluten-free. With these adjustments, you can enjoy this beloved dish without worry. For more about gluten-free cooking, check out Gluten Free & More.

Conclusion on General Tso’s Chicken

General Tso’s Chicken offers a delightful fusion of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, making it an irresistible dish for any night. Its easy-to-follow recipe allows you to create this takeout favorite at home, impressing family and friends without the restaurant price tag. Enjoy your culinary adventure!