Name: General Tso's Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 4 cups vegetable oil for frying; 1 large egg; 1 ½ pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon white sugar; 1 pinch white pepper; 1 cup cornstarch; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 tablespoons chopped green onion; 1 clove garlic, minced; 6 dried whole red chilies; 1 strip orange zest; ½ cup white sugar; ¼ cup soy sauce; 3 tablespoons chicken broth; 2 tablespoons peanut oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 teaspoons sesame oil; ¼ teaspoon ground ginger; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; ¼ cup water

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General Tso’s Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish known for its sweet and savory flavors. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The combination of crispy chicken and flavorful sauce creates a mouthwatering dish.
With simple ingredients and quick prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy individuals.
General Tso’s Chicken is great for meal prep and can be enjoyed as leftovers.

Ingredient Notes:

Chicken:

Vegetable oil for frying
Large egg
Skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into ½-inch pieces
Salt, white sugar, white pepper, and cornstarch for seasoning

Sauce:

Vegetable oil, green onion, garlic, dried whole red chilies, orange zest
White sugar, soy sauce, chicken broth, peanut oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil
Ground ginger, cornstarch, water

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a bowl, mix the egg, salt, sugar, white pepper, and cornstarch. Add the chicken pieces and coat them evenly.
Heat vegetable oil in a pan and fry the chicken until golden and crispy.
In another pan, sauté green onion, garlic, red chilies, and orange zest. Add in the sauce ingredients and simmer until thickened.
Toss the fried chicken in the sauce until coated evenly.
Serve hot and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Helpful Tips:

For a spicier kick, add more red chilies or a dash of chili flakes.
Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast if desired.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Marinate the chicken in the egg mixture for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
Use a mix of light and dark soy sauce for a well-balanced sauce.

Serving Suggestions:

General Tso’s Chicken pairs well with steamed rice or fried rice. Add a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Serve with a cold beer or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for a leaner option.

How can I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce the amount of red chilies or omit them altogether for a milder version.

Can I freeze General Tso’s Chicken?

It is not recommended to freeze this dish as the crispy coating may become soggy upon thawing.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Conclusion:

General Tso’s Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Chinese-American cuisine in the comfort of your own home. Don’t forget to share your feedback and tag us in your creations!

General Tso’s Chicken

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Crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a flavorful sweet and spicy sauce, General Tso’s Chicken is a popular Chinese takeout dish that you can easily make at home.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main-course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Chinese

Instructions

Fry the Chicken: In a bowl, mix egg, salt, sugar, and white pepper. Coat chicken pieces in the mixture, then toss in cornstarch. Fry in hot oil until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Make the Sauce: Heat vegetable oil, then sauté green onion, garlic, chilies, and orange zest. Add sugar, soy sauce, chicken broth, peanut oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and ginger. Mix cornstarch with water and add to the sauce. Simmer until thickened.
Combine and Serve: Toss fried chicken in the sauce until coated. Serve hot and enjoy!