General Tso's Chicken
Crispy, tangy, and slightly spicy, this General Tso's Chicken is a weeknight winner that'll have you skipping takeout.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Steps
- 1 Toss chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly coated.
- 2 Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Dip each piece of chicken into beaten eggs, then fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- 3 Remove chicken and drain on paper towels.
- 4 In the same skillet, add soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- 5 Return chicken to the skillet, toss to coat, and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- 6 Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Nutrition
Tips
- For extra crispiness, double coat the chicken in cornstarch.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Substitute chicken breast if preferred, though thighs are juicier.
- Adjust spice level by varying the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed white rice.
- Pair with crispy egg rolls.
- Add a side of cucumber salad.
- Enjoy with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
FAQ
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and store the chicken in the sauce separately. Reheat and toss before serving.
What can I use instead of rice vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar works as a good substitute.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, but it won't be as crispy.
How do I make this dish less spicy?
Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
Can I freeze General Tso's Chicken?
Yes, freeze uncooked chicken pieces. Reheat after frying and adding sauce.