General Tso’s Chicken is a popular dish loved for its sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make at home. If you’re looking for a quick recipe that your family will enjoy, you’re in the right place. For another simple chicken dish, check out 30 Minute Honey Butter Chicken.
Why Make This Recipe
Making General Tso’s Chicken at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests, serve a dinner for the family, or satisfy your own cravings. This dish pairs perfectly with rice, making it a complete meal. You may also find One Pan General Tsos Chicken useful.
How to Make General Tso’s Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts (cubed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp garlic salt
- 1 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup white distilled vinegar
- 1 tsp salt
- 6 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp red chili pepper flakes (optional)
Directions:
- Start by mixing the flour (or cornstarch), paprika, and garlic salt in a bowl.
- Coat the cubed chicken pieces in the flour mixture.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the chicken until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In a separate pot, combine the sugar, water, vinegar, salt, and soy sauce. Bring to a boil.
- Add the chicken to the sauce and stir well. Let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
- If you like it spicy, add in the red chili pepper flakes.
For a different take on chicken, you might also like making 3 Packet Crockpot Chicken, which offers a unique flavor profile and is easy to prepare.
How to Serve General Tso’s Chicken
Serve General Tso’s Chicken hot over a bed of steamed rice. You can also garnish it with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
How to Store General Tso’s Chicken
Store any leftover General Tso’s Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it in a microwave or pan before serving.
Tips to Make General Tso’s Chicken
- For a crispier texture, try double frying the chicken.
- Adjust the sweetness and spiciness of the sauce according to your preference.
- Add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
Variation
You can replace chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option. The cooking method remains the same, and it absorbs the sauce beautifully.
FAQs
1. Can I make General Tso’s Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine them just before serving.
2. What can I serve with General Tso’s Chicken?
It pairs well with rice, steamed vegetables, or even noodles.
3. Is this dish very spicy?
The spiciness can be adjusted by adding or removing red chili pepper flakes in the recipe. Feel free to leave them out if you prefer a milder flavor.
General Tso’s Chicken
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 4 pieces chicken breasts (cubed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch) Cornstarch can be used for a gluten-free option.
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp garlic salt
Sauce
- 1 1/4 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 added spice.
Instructions
Preparation
- Mix the flour (or cornstarch), paprika, and garlic salt in a bowl.
- Coat the cubed chicken pieces in the flour mixture.
Cooking
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the chicken until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In a separate pot, combine the sugar, water, vinegar, salt, and soy sauce. Bring to a boil.
- Add the chicken to the sauce and stir well. Let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
- If you like it spicy, add in the red chili pepper flakes.
