Easy Recipe for General Tso’s Chicken

Easy General Tso’s Chicke Recipe is a beloved dish in Chinese-American cuisine, known for its crispy texture, bold flavors, and glossy sauce. Whether you’ve enjoyed it in a restaurant or ordered it for takeout, it’s a dish that combines sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors perfectly. But have you ever wondered how you can recreate this iconic dish at home?

In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making General Tso’s Chicken from scratch. From its fascinating history to the perfect recipe and tips for keeping it crispy, we’ll guide you through every step. Plus, we’ll share side dish ideas, and pro tips, and answer the most common questions about this dish. Let’s dive into the world of General Tso’s Chicken!

Why Is It Called General Tso’s Chicken?

The story behind General Tso’s Chicken is as intriguing as its taste. Although the dish is named after General Tso Tsung-tang, a 19th-century Chinese military leader, there’s no evidence he ate or created the dish.

The Origin Story

The dish was popularized in the 1970s by Chinese chefs in America. Chef Peng Chang-kuei, who served in Taiwan after fleeing China, is often credited with inventing General Tso’s Chicken.
It was adapted to suit Western tastes, with sweeter and spicier flavors than traditional Chinese dishes.

Fun Facts About General Tso’s Chicken

In China, the dish is virtually unknown!
It became a staple of Chinese-American restaurants, showcasing the blending of cultures.
The original version was less sweet and more focused on the tangy and spicy elements.

What Does General Tso’s Chicken Taste Like?

General Tso’s Chicken is a flavor explosion in every bite. Here’s a breakdown of its taste profile:

Flavor	Description
Sweet	From sugar and hoisin sauce in the glaze.
Tangy	Thanks to rice vinegar or similar acids.
Spicy	Courtesy of dried chili peppers or sauce.
Umami	From soy sauce and garlic.

Texture Matters Too:
The chicken is crispy on the outside yet tender on the inside, with a sauce that’s thick enough to coat every bite without making it soggy.

What Are the Main Ingredients in This Recipe for General Tso’s Chicken?

Making General Tso’s Chicken at home requires a few essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken

Recommended Cut: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (juicier and more flavorful than breasts).
Alternative: Chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.

For the Batter:

Cornstarch: Ensures a light, crispy coating.
All-purpose flour: Adds structure to the batter.
Baking powder: Optional, for an extra-crispy texture.

For the Sauce:

Soy sauce: Adds depth and umami.
Rice vinegar: For a tangy kick.
Hoisin sauce: Brings sweetness and richness.
Sugar: Balances the tangy and spicy elements.
Garlic & ginger: Essential for flavor.
Dried chili peppers: For heat.

Optional Garnishes:

Sesame seeds.
Sliced green onions.

How to Make General Tso’s Chicken

Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering this dish:

1. Prep the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Marinate it with soy sauce and a touch of sesame oil for added flavor.

2. Make the Batter

Combine cornstarch, flour, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
Coat the chicken pieces evenly.

3. Fry the Chicken

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry chicken in small batches until golden brown.
Pro Tip: Double-fry the chicken for extra crispiness.

4. Prepare the Sauce

Mix soy sauce, vinegar, hoisin sauce, sugar, and water in a bowl.
Sauté garlic, ginger, and dried chilies in a pan.
Add the sauce mixture and simmer until thickened.

5. Combine

Toss the crispy chicken in the sauce until fully coated.

How to Keep the Chicken Nice and Crispy

Double-Frying: Fry the chicken twice to lock in crispiness.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in small batches for even cooking.
Serve Immediately: Coat the chicken in sauce just before serving.

What to Serve with General Tso’s Chicken

Classic Pairings:

Steamed jasmine rice.
Egg-fried rice.

Healthy Options:

Stir-fried bok choy or broccoli.
Cauliflower rice.

Complementary Dishes:

Spring rolls.
Hot and sour soup.

Side Dish	Why It Works
Steamed Rice	Balances the bold flavors.
Stir-fried Veggies	Adds freshness and crunch.
Egg Rolls	Complements the crispy texture.

Pro Tips for Making Perfect General Tso’s Chicken Every Time

Customize Heat Levels: Add more or fewer chilies based on your spice preference.
Balance the Sauce: Taste and adjust sweetness, tanginess, and spice.
Use a Wok: For authentic flavor and even cooking.
Keep it Fresh: Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.