Name: Homemade General Tso's Chicken That Beats Take-Out Every Time
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs (Substitute chicken breasts for a leaner option.); ⅓ cup Cornstarch (Essential for that crispy coating; don’t skip this.); 3 cups Vegetable Oil (Vital for frying; can use canola oil if needed.); 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil (Can replace with toasted peanut oil.); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Opt for low-sodium for a healthier version.); 2 tablespoons Hoisin Sauce (Look for gluten-free versions if necessary.); 3 tablespoons Light Brown Sugar (Substitute with white sugar or honey.); ½ cup Chicken Broth (Homemade is best, but vegetable broth works.); ½ cup Water (Can substitute with additional chicken broth.); 1 teaspoon Chili Garlic Sauce (Adjust to your heat preference.); 1 tablespoon Ginger (peeled and grated) (Fresh is best, but powdered works.); 2 tablespoons Garlic (minced) (Fresh is ideal, but granulated can suffice.); 2 tablespoons Green Onion (thinly sliced) (Red onions can serve in a pinch.); 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (Feel free to omit if not available.)

As I stirred the sizzling pan, the unmistakable aroma of ginger and garlic filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to my favorite local Chinese restaurant. This Quick & Easy General Tso’s Chicken is my secret weapon against the fast-food temptation, offering a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, all ready in just 30 minutes. Imagine crispy bites of breaded chicken coated in a rich sauce, making it the perfect family-friendly dish for those busy weeknights. Not only does it rival your take-out favorites, but it also provides a healthier, homemade alternative that everyone will love. Curious how to bring this classic dish to your dining table? Let’s get cooking!

Why Choose Homemade General Tso’s Chicken?

Savory Satisfaction: Imagine the comfort of crispy chicken enveloped in a sweet-sour sauce that dances across your palate.

Quick & Convenient: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights when take-out is tempting but you want home-cooked quality.

Healthier Option: Ditch the fast-food guilt with this homemade version, crafted with fresh ingredients and packed with flavor.

Customizable: Adjust the spice levels to your liking or swap chicken for shrimp or tofu, making it perfect for any dietary preference.

Family Favorite: With its irresistible taste and appealing texture, this dish is sure to bring your family back for seconds. Try it alongside some Garlic Parmesan Chicken for a delightful dinner spread!

General Tso’s Chicken Ingredients

• For the Chicken

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – Juicy and tender, this is your main protein; substitute chicken breasts for a leaner option.
Cornstarch – Essential for that crispy coating; don’t skip this for optimal crunch.
Vegetable Oil – Vital for frying to perfection; can use canola oil if needed.

• For the Sauce

Sesame Oil – Adds a warm, nutty flavor to the sauce; can replace with toasted peanut oil if unavailable.
Soy Sauce – Brings umami and a salty kick; opt for low-sodium for a healthier version.
Hoisin Sauce – Introduces a touch of sweetness; look for gluten-free versions if necessary.
Light Brown Sugar – Balances the flavors with the right sweetness; substitute with white sugar or honey if needed.
Chicken Broth – Infuses rich flavor; homemade is best, but vegetable broth works for a vegetarian option.
Water – Used to adjust sauce consistency, but can substitute with additional chicken broth for more flavor.
Chili Garlic Sauce – Provides that essential spice; adjust to your heat preference, or use sriracha for a twist.

• For the Aromatics

Ginger (peeled and grated) – Offers a fragrant warmth; fresh is best, but powdered ginger works in a pinch.
Garlic (minced) – Elevates the dish’s flavor; fresh is ideal, but granulated garlic can suffice.
Green Onion (thinly sliced) – Adds freshness and a pop of color for garnish; red onions can serve in a pinch.

• For Garnish

Sesame Seeds – Perfect for a crunchy topping; feel free to omit if you don’t have any on hand.

With these General Tso’s Chicken ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from a delicious home-cooked meal that will beat any take-out! 🥡

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for General Tso’s Chicken

Step 1: Prep Chicken
Begin by cutting 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized 1-inch pieces. In a medium bowl, generously coat the chicken with ⅓ cup of cornstarch, ensuring each piece is evenly covered. This coating will create that irresistible crispy texture during frying, setting the stage for your delicious General Tso’s Chicken.

Step 2: Make Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sauce for the General Tso’s Chicken. Combine 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 2 tablespoons each of soy sauce and hoisin sauce, and 3 tablespoons of light brown sugar. Then, add ½ cup chicken broth, ½ cup of water, 1 teaspoon of chili garlic sauce, and 2 tablespoons of minced garlic. Mix thoroughly and set aside for later use.

Step 3: Fry Chicken
Heat 3 cups of vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat until shimmering, ideally around 350°F. Carefully add the chicken pieces in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 4: Cook Aromatics
While the chicken is frying, prepare the aromatic base. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once heated, add grated ginger, minced garlic, and thinly sliced green onions. Sauté these for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant, letting their delightful aromas fill your kitchen.

Step 5: Combine
Add the crispy chicken to the skillet with the aromatic mixture. Pour in the previously prepared sauce, stirring to coat all the pieces evenly. Bring the mixture to a slow boil, and then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens beautifully around the chicken.

Step 6: Serve
Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency, it’s time to serve your masterpiece. Spoon the General Tso’s Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice for a delightful meal. Garnish generously with sesame seeds and additional sliced green onions for a pop of color. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with family or friends!

General Tso’s Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this recipe your own by exploring these fun and tasty twists!

Shrimp or Tofu: Swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu for a delightful seafood or vegetarian version. Both options offer different textures while soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Add Vegetables: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and color. The crunch of fresh veggies complements the dish beautifully, making it a more wholesome meal.
Fruity Twist: Incorporate a splash of pineapple or orange juice to introduce a sweet, fruity note to the sauce. This adds an unexpected dimension of flavor that the whole family will love!
Adjust Heat Levels: If you’re feeling adventurous, amp up the spice with extra chili garlic sauce or throw in some fresh chili flakes. This can easily elevate the dish from mildly spicy to fiery, depending on your preference!
Nutty Flavor: For a richer taste, sprinkle in some chopped nuts, like cashews or peanuts, before serving. They add a lovely crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
Whole Grain Alternative: Use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier side option full of fiber, providing a nutty flavor that complements the General Tso’s Chicken beautifully.
Soy Sauce Alternative: For a gluten-free option, use tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce without sacrificing that rich, savory flavor.
Sweetener Substitute: If you prefer a natural sweetener, feel free to replace light brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. They’ll lend a lovely sweetness while keeping the sauce thick!

Whichever variation or substitution you choose, your take on General Tso’s Chicken is sure to impress! And if you’re craving more delicious chicken recipes, don’t forget to explore our Garlic Parmesan Chicken or Lemon Herb Chicken for more family-friendly ideas.

What to Serve with General Tso’s Chicken

Pair your meal with delightful sides that enhance the harmony of flavors and textures in this vibrant dish.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy, jasmine rice absorbs the sweet and savory sauce beautifully, making each bite a flavor explosion.
Garlic Broccoli: Crunchy and tender, sautéed garlic broccoli adds a vibrant pop of color and earthy taste that complements the richness of the chicken.
Egg Fried Rice: Fried rice brings a smoky depth and hearty texture to your meal, balancing the sweetness of the General Tso’s Chicken with savory goodness.
Asian Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad with crisp cucumbers and a tangy dressing adds a cooling contrast to the warm, spicy chicken, creating a delightful balance.
Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with fresh vegetables make for a delightful appetizer or side, providing a fun crunch before diving into the main dish.
Hot and Sour Soup: This classic soup offers a spicy tang and satisfying warmth, enhancing the overall dining experience while staying true to Asian cuisine traditions.
Chilled Sake: Enjoy a glass of chilled sake to bring out the rich umami flavors of the dish, making your mealtime feel extra special and authentic.
Green Tea Ice Cream: For dessert, a scoop of green tea ice cream offers a creamy finish with a subtle bitterness that cleanses the palate and rounds out the meal perfectly.

Make Ahead Options

These General Tso’s Chicken are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the chicken and coat it with cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating it in an airtight container to maintain its crispiness. Additionally, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; simply whisk it together and refrigerate before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, just fry the chicken as instructed and combine it with the reheated sauce for that delightful, fresh flavor. This method ensures your dish is just as delicious as when freshly made, with minimal effort when it’s time to eat!

How to Store and Freeze General Tso’s Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover General Tso’s Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps keep the flavor intact while preventing moisture loss.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze separated chicken and sauce in airtight containers for up to 3 months. This keeps each component fresh for future meals.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat chicken in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 375°F for that crispy texture. Alternatively, microwave on medium until heated through.
Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. This ensures even heating and preserves the delightful flavors of General Tso’s Chicken.

Expert Tips for General Tso’s Chicken

Crispy Coating: Ensure your chicken is well-coated with cornstarch before frying for the ultimate crunch. Don’t skip this step!
Proper Oil Temperature: Always heat your vegetable oil until it’s shimmering. Use a pinch of cornstarch to test—if it sizzles, it’s perfect for adding the chicken.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry chicken in batches to maintain the oil’s temperature. Overcrowding can lead to soggy chicken instead of crispy pieces.
Homemade Sauce: For a flavor boost, feel free to tweak the sauce—add more chili garlic sauce for an extra kick or reduce the sugar for less sweetness.
Reheating Tips: Store leftovers separately and reheat chicken in an air fryer to regain its crispiness. This helps avoid soggy bites!
Adjust to Taste: General Tso’s Chicken is versatile; feel free to modify the heat level based on your family’s preferences for a truly personalized dish!

General Tso’s Chicken Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for General Tso’s Chicken?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless skinless chicken thighs for a tender and juicy finish. However, if you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work well too. Just make sure to coat them in cornstarch for that signature crispy bite!

How long can I store General Tso’s Chicken in the fridge?
You can keep any leftover General Tso’s Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to separate the chicken and sauce before storing to help maintain that delicious crispiness!

Can I freeze General Tso’s Chicken?
Yes, you can! For best results, freeze your cooked chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers or freezer bags. This way, the chicken maintains its texture and the sauce can be reheated easily. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

How do I reheat leftover General Tso’s Chicken?
To retain that beautiful crispiness, I recommend reheating the chicken in an air fryer at 375°F for about 5-7 minutes. This method brings back the crunch. If you don’t have an air fryer, using a microwave is fine—just go slow and heat them at medium power to avoid steaming!

What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
If anyone in your family has allergies or dietary restrictions, you can customize this dish easily. For a gluten-free version, check for gluten-free hoisin and soy sauces. Additionally, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp, making it versatile for different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

How can I adjust the heat level in General Tso’s Chicken?
Very! You can modify the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili garlic sauce you use in the recipe. If you like it spicier, add more sauce or even some fresh chili flakes. Conversely, for a milder dish, reduce the chili garlic sauce or swap it for a milder alternative like sriracha.