Go Back
General Tso's Chicken is a beloved staple of Chinese-American cuisine, celebrated for its irresistible combination of crispy chicken, savory sauce, and a hint of spice. This dish has become a go-to option for many families, whether dining out or enjoying a cozy night in. The allure of General Tso's Chicken lies not only in its flavor but also in the ease with which it can be prepared at home. While takeout offers convenience, nothing quite compares to the satisfaction of crafting this dish in your own kitchen. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a delightful version of General Tso's Chicken that rivals your favorite restaurant's offering.

The Best General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Discover the irresistible charm of General Tso's Chicken, a true staple of Chinese-American cuisine. This flavorful dish features crispy chicken coated in a savory, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce, making it a favorite for many families. Whether dining out or cooking at home, you can easily recreate this beloved recipe with simple ingredients and techniques. Explore its interesting history, cultural significance, and healthful variations in our comprehensive guide. Enjoy the journey of making this comforting meal that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients
  

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornstarch

2 large eggs, beaten

Vegetable oil, for frying

2 tablespoons sesame oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece of ginger, grated

6 dried red chili peppers (adjust based on spiciness preference)

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup rice vinegar

1/4 cup sugar

1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water for slurry)

2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour and cornstarch. In another bowl, add the beaten eggs. Dip each piece of chicken in the egg, then coat it with the flour-cornstarch mixture. Shake off any excess.

    Fry the Chicken: Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches, frying until golden brown and cooked through (about 4-5 minutes). Remove and drain on paper towels.

      Make the Sauce: In a separate large pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and dried chili peppers. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.

        Combine the Sauce Ingredients: In the pan with the garlic and ginger, pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

          Thicken the Sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens (about 2-3 minutes).

            Coat the Chicken: Once the sauce has thickened, add the fried chicken pieces to the pan. Toss well to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.

              Serve: Remove from heat and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

                Enjoy: Serve with steamed rice or fried rice and enjoy your homemade General Tso's Chicken!

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4