Homemade General Tso's Chicken That Beats Take-Out Every Time

This quick & easy General Tso’s Chicken offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a healthier alternative to take-out.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Chinese

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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.

For the Sauce

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.

For the Aromatics

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.

For Garnish

1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds Feel free to omit if not available.

Equipment

Medium bowl
deep pan
Large skillet
Whisk

Method

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

Begin by cutting the boneless skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized 1-inch pieces. Coat the chicken with cornstarch in a medium bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: sesame oil, cornstarch, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, light brown sugar, chicken broth, water, chili garlic sauce, and minced garlic.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces in batches and fry for about 8 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat and sauté ginger, garlic, and green onions for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Add the crispy chicken to the skillet, pour in the sauce, and stir to coat evenly. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Serve the General Tso’s Chicken over rice, garnished with sesame seeds and additional green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 10gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For crispy chicken, ensure it's well-coated with cornstarch. Don't overcrowd the frying pan for the best texture.

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