If you have ever craved that perfectly crispy, sweet, and slightly spicy takeout favorite, then you are going to fall head over heels for this General Tso Chicken Recipe. It’s a harmonious blend of tender chicken pieces coated in a light, crunchy shell, enveloped by a luscious sauce that hits all the right notes—savory, tangy, and just enough kick to keep your taste buds dancing. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings that warm, comforting experience straight to your kitchen with ingredients you can easily find at home.

General Tso Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because it uses simple, essential ingredients that work beautifully together to bring out incredible flavor, texture, and color in every bite. From the crispy coating on the chicken to the sticky, glossy sauce, each element plays a vital role.

1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Perfectly tender and juicy, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
1/2 cup cornstarch: Creates that irresistibly crispy texture on the chicken.
2 eggs (beaten): Helps the cornstarch stick and adds a lovely coating.
1/4 cup vegetable oil: Ideal for frying the chicken to golden perfection.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Adds a wonderful aromatic base to the sauce.
1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated): Brings a subtle zing and depth of flavor.
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For just the right amount of heat.
2 green onions (sliced): Provides a fresh, bright garnish and a mild oniony crunch.
Sesame seeds (optional): Adds a delightful nutty touch and visual appeal.
For the sauce:
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce: Balances saltiness with deep umami flavor.
1/4 cup rice vinegar: Adds brightness and tang.
1/4 cup hoisin sauce: Brings sweetness and complexity.
1/3 cup sugar: Enhances the sauce’s signature sweet contrast.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to the perfect glaze consistency.
1/2 cup water: Used to blend everything into the perfect sauce texture.

How to Make General Tso Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by whisking together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and water in a medium bowl. This sauce will become that iconic sticky coating that makes the General Tso Chicken Recipe unforgettable. Set this aside so the flavors can meld as you move on to the chicken.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Toss the chicken pieces in cornstarch until they are thoroughly coated; this step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture. Then, dip each coated piece into the beaten eggs to help lock in the crunch and create a beautiful golden crust when fried.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or wok. Fry the chicken in batches so the oil temperature stays consistent, cooking each piece for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until crisp and golden brown. Once done, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Build the Flavor Base

Discard excess oil from the pan but leave around one tablespoon to sauté the aromatics. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This quick step infuses the oil with rich, vibrant flavor.

Step 5: Cook the Sauce

Pour in the prepared sauce mixture and stir continuously. You’ll notice the sauce start to bubble and thicken within 2 to 3 minutes, turning glossy and perfect for coating the chicken. Be patient here, as the thickened sauce is key to getting that traditional General Tso Chicken Recipe glaze.

Step 6: Combine and Toss

Add the fried chicken back into the pan and toss to make sure every bite is coated generously with the sauce. Cook everything together for an additional 2 minutes to heat through and marry the flavors beautifully.

How to Serve General Tso Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a bright, fresh crunch and a pop of color that makes the dish inviting and vibrant. A handful of toasted sesame seeds adds a touch of nuttiness and a little extra texture, making every forkful even more exciting.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white or jasmine rice, which soaks up every bit of the luscious sauce. You can also serve it alongside roasted or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers to add a fresh, healthy balance to this savory delight.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving General Tso Chicken in lettuce wraps for a light, handheld meal. Alternatively, layer it atop a bed of cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Don’t be afraid to add crushed peanuts or a drizzle of chili oil if you want to spice things up even more!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover General Tso Chicken Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to three days, giving you a quick and delicious meal option for busy days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This is a great way to enjoy the flavors of General Tso Chicken Recipe whenever cravings strike.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken and sauce gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the chicken crispy without drying it out. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the best texture; however, it works in a pinch with a short heating time.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for the General Tso Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely. Chicken breasts work well, but keep in mind thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving when frying, so watch cooking times closely to avoid dryness.

How spicy is this recipe?

The heat level is mild by default, thanks to the optional red pepper flakes. You can easily customize it—add more flakes or a splash of chili oil to suit your personal spice preference.

Is there a healthier way to make General Tso Chicken Recipe?

Yes! Instead of frying, bake or air-fry the chicken for a lighter version. You can also reduce the sugar slightly or increase the vinegar for more tang to keep the flavor balanced.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Definitely. The sauce can be mixed and refrigerated for up to two days. Give it a good whisk before using, as ingredients might settle or thicken slightly.

What sides go best with General Tso Chicken Recipe?

Classic steamed rice is a favorite, but feel free to get creative with stir-fried veggies, fried rice, or even noodles to soak up that delicious sauce.

Final Thoughts

This General Tso Chicken Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser, bringing the beloved taste of takeout into your own kitchen with ease and a personal touch. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, ignites happy memories, and never fails to satisfy that craving for something comforting and delicious. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite meal to whip up whenever you need a flavor-packed pick-me-up.