General Tsos Chicken

If you’ve ever craved a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, look no further than General Tsos Chicken. This beloved Chinese-American classic marries perfectly crispy chicken with a sweet and savory sauce, making it a favorite for takeout nights and home-cooked meals alike. With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can recreate this restaurant favorite right in your own kitchen.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets this General Tsos Chicken apart from the rest is its balance of textures and flavors. The crispy chicken, coated in a sticky, sweet sauce infused with hoisin, soy, and a hint of spice, is a combination that’s hard to resist. The addition of fresh ginger and garlic adds depth, while the green onions provide a pop of color and freshness. Plus, by making it at home, you can control the ingredients and adjust the heat to your liking.

Shopping List

• 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons packed light-brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 green onions, sliced (greens and whites divided)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons finely grated fresh ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
• 3 egg whites
• 1 1/2 cups cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• Salt and white or black pepper, as desired
• 4 cups vegetable oil, for frying

Equipment & Tools

• Large mixing bowl – for marinating the chicken.
• Whisk – to mix the sauce and batter.
• Frying pan or wok – for frying the chicken.
• Slotted spoon – to remove chicken from oil.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Cutting board and knife – for dicing chicken and chopping vegetables.

General Tsos Chicken: How It’s Done

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by dicing the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Place the chicken in a large mixing bowl and add the egg whites, a sprinkle of salt, and black or white pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.

Step 2: Create the Batter

In a separate bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of cornstarch, all-purpose flour, and baking soda. Gradually add this mixture to the chicken, tossing until each piece is thoroughly coated. This will give the chicken its signature crispy exterior.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, low-sodium soy sauce, light-brown sugar, and chicken broth. Set aside.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

In a frying pan or wok, heat 4 cups of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the battered chicken pieces in batches. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Sauté Aromatics

In a clean pan, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced green onion whites. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with the sautéed aromatics. Bring it to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. Add the fried chicken pieces and toss gently to coat them in the sauce. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is well coated with the sauce, remove from heat. Garnish with the sliced green onion greens before serving. Enjoy your homemade General Tsos Chicken over steamed rice or with your favorite side dishes!

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

• For a fresh twist, add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas in the stir-fry.
• Use orange juice or zest for a citrusy flavor in the sauce during summer.
• Substitute honey for brown sugar in the sauce for a different sweetness profile.
• In the winter months, add roasted chestnuts for a unique texture and flavor.

Slip-Ups to Skip

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; this can cause the temperature to drop and result in soggy chicken.
• Be careful not to overcook the chicken; it should be golden and crispy, but still tender inside.
• Allow the oil to reach the right temperature before adding the chicken for the best fry.
• Make sure to whisk the sauce ingredients well to prevent clumps of sugar or cornstarch.

Shelf Life & Storage

Leftover General Tsos Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain its crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the chicken soggy.

General Tsos Chicken Q&A

Can I use tofu instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Firm tofu can be diced and prepared in the same way. Just ensure to press it to remove excess moisture before marinating and frying.

What can I serve with General Tsos Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or even a fresh vegetable stir-fry for added crunch and nutrition.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and use gluten-free all-purpose flour and cornstarch for the batter.

How can I make it less spicy?

Simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes, or use a milder sauce option. You can also add more sugar to balance the heat if desired.

Serve & Enjoy

General Tsos Chicken is a delightful dish that is sure to impress family and friends. With its crispy chicken and flavorful sauce, it brings the taste of your favorite Chinese takeout right to your table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this recipe is a winner. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a plateful of this deliciousness!