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, Sambal Oelak is great); 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 ((red pepper flakes)); finely sliced green onion; sesame seeds

Introduction to General Tso’s Chicken

What is General Tso’s Chicken and why is it a favorite?

General Tso’s Chicken is a classic dish that beautifully encapsulates the flavors we love from American Chinese cuisine. Picture this: juicy, tender chicken pieces are tossed in a sweet, savory, spicy, and tangy sauce, then fried to crispy perfection. It’s no wonder that this dish has won the hearts (and taste buds!) of so many food lovers.

Originating from the Hunan province of China, it’s often thought that General Tso’s Chicken was named after a Chinese general named Tso Tsung-t'ang. However, its American popularity really took off in the 1970s, thanks in part to Chinese restaurants responding to local palates that craved more flavor-packed options. Many have even dubbed it the “gateway” dish for those new to Chinese cuisine.

What sets General Tso’s Chicken apart is its seemingly simple yet complex flavor profile. The combination of ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of heat from chili paste creates a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or even fried rice. So, whether it’s your go-to takeout order or a weekend homemade treat, it’s clear why this dish remains a favorite! Want to learn how to make it yourself? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for General Tso’s Chicken

When it comes to creating the perfect General Tso's Chicken, the right ingredients are essential for capturing that iconic sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavor profile. Let’s break down what you’ll need:

Essential ingredients for the sauce

The heart of your dish lies in the sauce, which harmonizes all the flavors. Here’s what you'll need:

Soy sauce: 3 tablespoon of light or all-purpose soy sauce adds umami depth.
Hoisin sauce: 1 tablespoon for a touch of sweetness.
Rice vinegar: 1 tablespoon helps balance the flavors with a tangy twist.
Chili paste: 2 teaspoon of your choice, such as Sambal Oelek, for that spicy kick.
Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil enhances aroma and flavor.
Brown sugar: 3 tablespoon lends sweetness to the sauce.
Cornflour/cornstarch: 1 tablespoon thickens the sauce beautifully.
Chicken stock: ¾ cup of low sodium chicken stock gives it a rich base.

Key ingredients for the chicken

The chicken itself should be juicy and tender, which is why we recommend:

Boneless skinless thigh: 600g cut into bite-sized pieces is perfect for frying.
Garlic and ginger: Freshly grated for that aromatic backbone of flavor.
Cornflour/cornstarch: 1 cup is used for coating, ensuring a crispy outer layer.

Garnishes that elevate the dish

To finish off your General Tso’s Chicken, add garnishes for texture and flavor:

Finely sliced green onion: For a fresh crunch.
Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds enhances both appearance and flavor.

With these ingredients ready, you’re just a few steps away from a homemade takeout classic! For more tips on perfecting your recipe, check out Serious Eats.

Step-by-step Preparation of General Tso’s Chicken

Creating a delicious General Tso’s Chicken at home might seem like a daunting task, but with a little preparation and the right steps, you’ll be serving up this Chinese takeout favorite in no time! Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide.

Prepare the sauce/marinade

First things first: we need to whip up a flavorful sauce that will also serve as the marinade for our chicken. In a bowl, combine:

3 tablespoon soy sauce (light or all-purpose)
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoon chili paste (Sambal Oelek works great)
1 teaspoon sesame oil (toasted is preferred)
3 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon cornflour/cornstarch
¾ cup chicken stock (low sodium)

Mix these ingredients until they’re well blended. This sweet and spicy concoction is the key to your General Tso’s Chicken's distinctive flavor.

Marinate the chicken pieces

Grab your 600g of boneless, skinless chicken thighs—cut into bite-sized pieces—and add a portion of your marinade (about 2 tablespoons). Don’t forget to mix in 1 teaspoon finely grated ginger and 1 teaspoon finely grated garlic for that extra zing. Allow this to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This process not only infuses flavor but also tenderizes the chicken beautifully.

Dust the chicken with cornflour

After marinating, it’s time to give the chicken a bit of a crisp. Toss the marinated pieces in 1 cup cornflour/cornstarch, ensuring they’re evenly coated. A great tip is to mix them in a bowl and then shake them in a colander to get rid of any excess flour—this ensures a nice, crispy coating when frying.

Heat the oil for frying

Now, let’s get that oil ready! Pour in about 2 cm (⅘ inch) of oil into a deep skillet or a large pot and heat it to 200°C (390°F). This is crucial because the high heat ensures that your chicken will fry to a crisp perfection, sealing in all the juiciness.

Fry the chicken until crispy

Fry your chicken pieces for about 3 minutes, turning them halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden and crispy. Make sure to drain them on a paper towel-lined plate to avoid sogginess.

Sauté the aromatics and combine with sauce

In a clean skillet, heat 2 tablespoon oil over medium heat. Sauté 2 cloves of garlic and 2 teaspoon finely chopped ginger along with ½ teaspoon red chili flakes for about 30 seconds. You want the garlic to turn a light golden. Then, pour in the remaining sauce mixture and let it simmer until it thickens a bit, creating that perfect glaze for your chicken.

Toss the chicken in the sauce and serve

Finally, add your fried chicken to the skillet with the sauce and toss it quickly. You want each piece to be coated while still maintaining that lovely crispiness. Serve it up immediately, garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds—whatever you prefer!

Enjoy your homemade General Tso’s Chicken with rice or noodles, and relish in the fact that you’ve created a delicious dish right at home. For more inspiration, check out The Woks of Life for variations and tips on Chinese cooking!

Variations on General Tso’s Chicken

Spicy General Tso’s Chicken

If you crave an extra kick, try making Spicy General Tso's Chicken. Just increase the amount of chili paste or add sliced fresh chilis to the marinade. For those who like a smoky flavor, a dash of smoked paprika works wonders too! This variation offers a tangy and spicy experience that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or even cauliflower rice for a gluten-free twist.

Healthier Baked Version of General Tso’s Chicken

Looking for a lighter option? A healthier baked version of General Tso's Chicken is simple to whip up. Instead of frying, coat the marinated chicken in cornflour and place it on a baking tray. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden and crispy. The result is a deliciously crunchy exterior without the added oil, making it a perfect choice for guilt-free indulgence.

Cooking Tips and Notes for General Tso’s Chicken

Keeping the Chicken Crispy

To achieve that coveted crispy texture in General Tso’s Chicken, ensuring proper coating is key. After dusting your marinated chicken pieces with cornflour, shake off any excess. This simple step prevents clumps that can lead to sogginess. Additionally, frying at the correct temperature—around 200°C (390°F)—is crucial. If your oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken will absorb more oil and lose that delightful crunch!

Choosing the Right Oil for Frying

Selecting the right oil impacts both flavor and cooking performance. Peanut oil is a fantastic option, with its high smoke point and nutty taste. Vegetable and canola oils also work well if you’re looking for something more neutral. A good rule of thumb is to have enough oil to allow for shallow frying; this will enhance even cooking and crispiness. For more insights on frying oils, check out resources from Serious Eats.

Serving Suggestions for General Tso’s Chicken

Ideal side dishes for a complete meal

To make your General Tso’s Chicken experience truly special, consider pairing it with flavorful side dishes. Here are some delightful options:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The perfect canvas for that savory sauce.
Vegetable Lo Mein: Adds a colorful twist while complementing the dish's flavors.
Chili Garlic Edamame: A protein-packed, slightly spicy starter that’s hard to resist.
Stir-Fried Bok Choy: A light, crunchy side that balances the richness of the chicken.

Best ways to garnish and present

Presentation matters! To elevate your General Tso’s Chicken, here are some garnishing tips:

Finely sliced green onions: A pop of color and fresh flavor.
Sesame seeds: Sprinkle some toasted seeds for added texture.
Serve on a colorful plate: Contrast helps the dish shine; a red plate can really make the colors pop!

For more ideas, check out this guide on plating techniques to impress your guests or family with a stunning meal.

Time Breakdown for General Tso’s Chicken

Preparation Time

Preparing your ingredients is a breeze and only takes about 15 minutes. This quick time includes marinating the chicken and getting all your sauces mixed up. Trust me, a little prep can make a huge difference in flavor!

Cooking Time

Once you're prepped, cooking the chicken is surprisingly fast, needing just 10 minutes. That’s right, in less than half an hour, you’ll have crispy, flavorful General Tso's Chicken ready to enjoy!

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at around 25 minutes to serve up this delicious dish. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something homemade yet satisfying. Pair it with some steamed rice or veggies, and you’ve got a complete meal that rivals your favorite takeout!

For more detailed insights on meal prep, check out this handy resource that dives into efficient cooking methods. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for General Tso’s Chicken

Calories per serving

With General Tso's Chicken, you can expect approximately 465 calories per serving, which makes it a comforting yet indulgent choice for any meal.

Key nutritional breakdown

This dish packs in a solid nutritional punch:

Protein: 32g – a hefty amount to help keep you satiated.
Carbohydrates: 22g – offering just the right touch of energy.
Fat: 28g – contributing to that crave-worthy richness.
Sodium: 974mg – perfect for enhanced flavor, but keep an eye on sodium intake if you're salt-sensitive.

For more detailed nutritional insights, you can explore resources like the USDA Food Data Central or consult your favorite nutritional tracking app. Enjoying General Tso’s Chicken in moderation can still fit into a balanced diet!

FAQs about General Tso’s Chicken

Can I make General Tso’s Chicken in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken up to a day ahead. Just store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade General Tso’s Chicken, simply fry the chicken and combine it with the sauce. However, for the crispiest experience, it’s best to fry the chicken right before serving.

What can I use instead of chicken thighs?

If you're not a fan of chicken thighs, you can substitute with chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Keep in mind that chicken breast tends to dry out quicker, so consider tenderizing it beforehand. For great alternatives, check out popular suggestions like this article that offers deeper insights into protein substitutions.

How do I store leftovers of General Tso’s Chicken?

Storing leftovers is easy! Simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to five days. While you can reheat the chicken, keep in mind it won’t retain its crispiness. Adding a few drops of water while reheating can help keep the sauce from thickening too much. Enjoy the convenience of leftovers, and check This Food Storage Guide for more tips!

Conclusion on General Tso’s Chicken

In summary, General Tso’s Chicken is the ultimate balance of flavors and textures, making it an irresistible dish for any dining occasion. With its crispy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that you can easily whip up at home. Enjoy with your favorite rice for a complete meal!

For an in-depth look at the history of General Tso’s Chicken or for variations of the recipe, check out sources like Serious Eats or Wikipedia.