Tso’s Chicken

Sharing is caring!

Few dishes encapsulate the joys of American-Chinese cuisine quite like General Tso’s Chicken. Its perfectly crispy, golden-breaded chicken bites coated in a sweet, sticky glaze are a sensory delight that keeps diners coming back for more. While it’s a favorite among takeout enthusiasts, this homemade recipe allows you to bring its better-than-restaurant flavor right to your kitchen. With just 25 minutes of total prep and cook time, this dish is both quick and delicious—a weeknight dinner hero. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just stepping into the world of cooking, this dish promises satisfaction with every bite.

Print

Why You’ll Love General Tso’s Chicken

The beauty of General Tso’s Chicken lies in its universal appeal. It’s a harmony of textures and flavors: tender chicken with a crispy coating, enveloped in a luscious sauce that’s sweet, tangy, and just a touch spicy. Think of it as a cousin to Sesame or Orange Chicken but with a mellower, less citrusy profile. The recipe is also versatile—easy to tweak for those who crave heat or prefer gentler flavors. Best of all, making it at home ensures you control the ingredients, making it fresher and healthier than its takeout counterpart.

Ingredients

To make this dish, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples for both the breading and the sauce. Here’s a clear breakdown:

For the Breading:

• 4 chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or substitute with cornstarch for extra crispiness)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp garlic salt

For the Sauce:

• 1 ¼ cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup white distilled vinegar
• 1 tsp salt
• 6 Tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp red chili pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Equipment:

• 12-inch frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs or a slotted spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Begin by cubing the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and maximizes the crispy coating-to-meat ratio.

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, paprika, and garlic salt. Toss the chicken cubes in the mixture until each piece is thoroughly coated. This breading step is key for achieving the signature crispy exterior.

2. Fry to Perfection

Heat ¾ cup of oil in your 12-inch frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the chicken in batches to prevent overcrowding. Each batch should cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the chicken pieces are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

3. Craft the Sauce

In a separate saucepan, combine sugar, water, white distilled vinegar, salt, soy sauce, and red chili pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to dissolve the sugar and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 12 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken into a glossy, luscious glaze.

4. Bring It All Together

Once the sauce reaches the desired consistency, pour it over the fried chicken. Stir gently to ensure every piece is evenly coated. Serve immediately for the crispiest texture.

The Flavors and Aromas

As you cook, your kitchen will come alive with tantalizing aromas. The sharp tang of vinegar blends with the umami richness of soy sauce, balanced by the sweet, caramel-like notes of sugar. When combined with the fried chicken, the sauce creates a perfect harmony of sweet and savory. Each bite offers a crunchy exterior, tender interior, and a flavor explosion that’s impossible to resist.

Tips and Tricks

1. Tenderizing the Chicken

For exceptionally tender meat, use the quick tenderizer trick: Add 1 tsp of baking soda and 2 tsp of vinegar to the cubed chicken. Let it sit for 10 minutes before breading. This method breaks down the proteins, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth chicken.

2. Spice It Up

Prefer your General Tso’s Chicken with more heat? Add an extra teaspoon of red chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce. Freshly grated ginger or minced garlic can also enhance the flavor profile.

3. Cooking Methods for Convenience

• Crockpot Version: Transfer the fried chicken to a slow cooker, pour the sauce over, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
• Oven-Baked Version: Place the fried chicken in a baking dish, pour the sauce over, and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.

4. Pairing Suggestions

Serve this dish over steamed white rice or fried rice to soak up the sauce. For a balanced meal, steam some broccoli and toss it with a drizzle of sesame oil and soy sauce. The suggested colander trick allows you to steam broccoli directly above the simmering sauce, saving time and adding a fresh veggie side.

Variations

1. Gluten-Free Version

Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch in the breading. Ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free as well.

2. Vegetarian Alternative

Replace chicken with firm tofu or cauliflower florets. Follow the same breading and frying process for a plant-based twist.

3. Healthier Option

Instead of frying, bake the breaded chicken pieces on a parchment-lined tray at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The texture will be slightly less crispy but still delicious.

Serving Suggestions

General Tso’s Chicken is best enjoyed hot and fresh, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings. Garnish with sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions for a pop of flavor and color. Serve alongside egg rolls, wonton soup, or a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal.

For a festive touch, plate it on a large serving dish and surround it with broccoli florets or sliced bell peppers. The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests.

Conclusion

Making General Tso’s Chicken at home isn’t just about replicating a takeout favorite; it’s about elevating it. The balance of crispy breading, tender chicken, and rich sauce makes every bite an indulgent treat. With customizable spice levels and multiple cooking methods, this recipe fits seamlessly into any home cook’s repertoire.