How to Make General Tso’s Chicken at Home

Discover the magic of authentic flavors with this easy and irresistible recipe that lets you make General Tso’s Chicken at home. This dish brings together crispy, golden chicken bites coated in a perfectly balanced sweet, tangy, and spicy sauce that will satisfy any craving for Chinese takeout. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, learning how to make General Tso’s Chicken at home will become your new favorite way to enjoy this classic dish anytime.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly crispy chicken: The chicken is coated and fried to golden perfection for that satisfying crunch with every bite.
• Balanced sauce flavors: The signature sauce blends sweet, tangy, and spicy notes that create a harmony of taste on your palate.
• Quick and easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an approachable recipe even for kitchen novices.
• Customizable heat level: Adjust the spice in the sauce to your liking, making it ideal for all taste preferences.
• Great for leftovers: This dish reheats wonderfully, keeping its texture and flavor intact.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building this dish’s iconic taste and texture. From the crispy chicken coating to the sweet and tangy sauce components, you’ll see why these simple pantry staples come together so beautifully.

• Boneless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, thighs stay moist and flavorful after frying.
• Cornstarch: Creates the crispy, light coating that’s essential for perfectly fried chicken pieces.
• Eggs: Helps the cornstarch adhere firmly to the chicken for an even crust.
• Soy sauce: Provides salty umami depth to the sauce base.
• Rice vinegar: Adds a subtle acidity that brightens the sauce’s flavor.
• Hoisin sauce: Infuses sweetness and richness into the glaze.
• Garlic and fresh ginger: Deliver aromatic warmth and zest to the sauce.
• Dried red chili flakes or fresh chilis: Bring the signature subtle heat to the dish.
• Sugar or honey: Balances the tang and spice with a mild sweetness.
• Green onions: Used for garnish adding freshness and a hint of crunch.
• Vegetable oil: Essential for frying to achieve that golden crispiness.

Variations for General Tso’s Chicken

Feel free to make this recipe your own! Whether you want to adjust the heat, switch up proteins, or cater to certain dietary preferences, this recipe is wonderfully flexible and forgiving.

• Use chicken breasts: Substitute for a leaner option, though thighs retain more moisture.
• Make it gluten-free: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch alternatives like potato starch.
• Vegetarian version: Swap chicken for crispy tofu or cauliflower florets for a plant-based twist.
• Adjust spice levels: Increase or reduce the chili flakes or fresh chilis to suit your heat tolerance.
• Sweetener swaps: Use maple syrup or brown sugar instead of white sugar or honey for varied sweetness profile.

How to Make General Tso’s Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. In a bowl, whisk eggs and then coat the chicken pieces with the egg wash. Toss the chicken into cornstarch until fully covered to guarantee that crispy crust once fried.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking each piece to a beautiful golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels to keep them crispy.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a separate pan, lightly sauté minced garlic and fresh ginger until fragrant. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sugar, and dried red chili flakes, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Toss the crispy fried chicken pieces into the warm sauce until each piece is glossy and fully coated. This step ensures every bite is bursting with that iconic General Tso’s Chicken flavor.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish by sprinkling sliced green onions over the top for freshness and a pop of color. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture experience.

Pro Tips for Making General Tso’s Chicken

• Dry chicken well: Pat the chicken pieces completely dry before coating to ensure a crisp crust.
• Control oil temperature: Keep frying oil between 350°F to 375°F to avoid greasy or undercooked chicken.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Frying in small batches keeps the oil temperature steady and chicken crisp.
• Use fresh aromatics: Fresh garlic and ginger boost flavor far beyond powdered substitutes.
• Adjust sauce consistency: For a thicker glaze, simmer sauce a bit longer before adding chicken.

How to Serve General Tso’s Chicken

Garnishes

Green onions and toasted sesame seeds add freshness and a subtle crunch that perfectly complements the rich sauce and crispy chicken.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice or fried rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For veggies, stir-fried broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy provide balance and texture contrasts.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving General Tso’s Chicken over cauliflower rice or inside lettuce wraps for a low-carb and visually appealing meal that impresses any guest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The chicken tends to absorb flavor overnight, making it taste even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

Freeze unfried coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. For best results, fry from frozen and then toss with sauce.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a hot skillet or oven to maintain crispness instead of microwaving, which can make the chicken soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used for a leaner version, though thighs remain juicier and more forgiving during frying.

Is General Tso’s Chicken traditionally spicy?

The dish usually features a mild to moderate heat level, but spice can be adjusted by adding more or less chili in the sauce.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and substitute cornstarch or potato starch for regular flour coatings.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and coat the chicken in advance; just fry the chicken fresh for the best texture.

What is the best way to keep the chicken crispy when serving?

Serve immediately after frying and saucing, or keep fried chicken warm separately and toss with sauce just before serving.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about making General Tso’s Chicken from scratch—the crispy chicken, the bold and balanced sauce, and the joy of serving a homemade favorite. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a staple in your weeknight rotation or your next casual gathering. Your taste buds will thank you!

Related Posts

• Easy Buffalo-Style Chicken Pizza Recipe to Try
• How to Make Shoyu Chicken at Home
• Easy Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash Recipe

Print