Crispy General Tso Chicken

The moment I heard someone mention Crispy General Tso Chicken, I could almost taste the crispy texture and the sweet, tangy sauce that drenches it. Growing up, my family would have our favorite Chinese takeout on special occasions, and this dish was always a star. Its vibrant colors and delightful aroma would fill the kitchen, making everyone eager to grab a plate. When I finally decided to recreate it at home, I knew I had to get it just right. After several attempts, I crafted a recipe that not only mirrors that nostalgic flavor but also allows me to enjoy it fresh from my own kitchen. This dish has become a staple in my home, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Ingredients Overview for Crispy General Tso Chicken

The ingredients for Crispy General Tso Chicken are simple yet impactful. They work harmoniously to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. The stars of this recipe are the chicken, which provides a hearty base, and the cornstarch that gives it that coveted crispy texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in developing the unforgettable flavor profile of this dish.

• 2 1/2 pounds chicken breasts or boneless chicken thighs – Cut into 1-inch chunks, these are the main protein source, providing a tender and juicy bite.
• 1 cup cornstarch – This is essential for creating the crispy coating on the chicken.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – Used alongside cornstarch to add structure to the coating.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a subtle kick to the coating.
• 2 eggs – Beaten, they help the coating stick to the chicken.
• Canola oil – Used for frying, giving the chicken its crispy texture.
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar – Provides a tangy flavor in the sauce.
• 1/3 cup soy sauce – The savory backbone of the dish, it enriches the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce – Adds a sweet and unique flavor profile.
• 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth – Used in the sauce to balance flavors.
• 3 tablespoons white sugar – Adds sweetness to the dish.
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar – Deepens the sweetness and adds a hint of molasses flavor.
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger – Minced, provides warmth and depth to the sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – A must for savory dishes, adding depth of flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Adds a touch of heat to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Used in the sauce to thicken it.
• Green onions – Chopped, they add freshness and color as a garnish.
• Sesame seeds – For garnish, they add a delightful crunch.

Putting Together Crispy General Tso Chicken

Creating Crispy General Tso Chicken is an enjoyable process that will make your kitchen smell amazing. Each step brings you closer to that final dish that you can’t wait to serve. Let’s dive into the cooking!

1. Start by prepping your ingredients. In a large, shallow bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will form the crispy coating for your chicken.
2. In another bowl, add the beaten eggs. This will help the coating adhere to the chicken pieces.
3. Pour about 2 inches of canola oil into a deep frying pan and heat it over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough that it sizzles when you add the chicken.
4. Take your chicken chunks and dip them into the beaten eggs, ensuring they’re fully coated.
5. Next, add the chicken chunks to the cornstarch mixture and toss until they’re well-coated. Make sure to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
6. Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Cook them in batches until they’re golden brown and crispy, which should take about 4 to 6 minutes per batch. Look for a beautiful golden color and a crispy texture.
7. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Be sure to set it aside for now.
8. Discard the oil from the frying pan and wipe it clean with a paper towel. This will prepare the pan for the sauce.
9. In the same skillet, add all the sauce ingredients: rice vinegar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, chicken broth, white sugar, brown sugar, ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Whisk to combine.
10. Cook the sauce over medium heat for about 3 to 5 minutes. You want it to start simmering, which indicates that the flavors are melding together.
11. Continue to cook the sauce for an additional 5 minutes until it thickens nicely. The sauce should have a glossy appearance.
12. Once the sauce has thickened, add the fried chicken back into the skillet. Stir well to coat each piece in that luscious sauce.
13. Remove the skillet from heat and serve the Crispy General Tso Chicken garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy!

Ways to Customize

There are several ways to make Crispy General Tso Chicken your own. Here are some fun ideas:

• Make it spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to elevate the heat.
• Vegetable additions: Stir in some broccoli or bell peppers when cooking the sauce for added nutrition and color.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free soy sauce and flour to make this dish accessible for all diners.
• Serving size: Feel free to double the recipe if you’re hosting a bigger gathering.
• Alternative proteins: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
• Adjust sweetness: Modify the amount of sugar based on your personal preference; for less sweetness, reduce the sugar amounts.

Serving Options for Crispy General Tso Chicken

Serving Crispy General Tso Chicken can be as delightful as making it. Here are some ideas for how to present and enjoy your dish:

• Serve with steamed rice: White or brown rice complements the dish perfectly, soaking up the savory sauce.
• Add a side of vegetables: Steamed or stir-fried vegetables, like broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas, add color and nutrition.
• Perfect for lunch: This dish makes a fantastic leftover option for lunch; simply reheat and enjoy!
• Pair with appetizers: Consider serving some spring rolls or dumplings as an appetizer for a complete Asian meal experience.
• Occasions: Ideal for casual family dinners or festive gatherings, Crispy General Tso Chicken is sure to impress your guests.
• Garnish it up: Top with sesame seeds and green onions just before serving for a fresh touch.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Crispy General Tso Chicken is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will surely impress anyone who tries it. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a special occasion dish. I encourage you to try making it at home—you’ll enjoy the fresh taste and the satisfaction of creating such a beloved dish!

Crispy General Tso Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Crispy General Tso Chicken is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and crispy. This easy weeknight dinner is ready in under an hour, making it a must-try for your next meal.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Chinese

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 1/2 pounds chicken breasts or boneless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 eggs beaten eggs
• Canola oil for frying
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1/3 cup soy sauce or amino acids for gluten-free version
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1/2 cup chicken broth low sodium
• 3 tablespoons white sugar
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger minced
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Green onions chopped
• Sesame seeds

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. In a large, shallow bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add beaten eggs to another bowl.
3. Pour about 2 inches of canola oil into a deep frying pan and heat it over medium-high heat.
4. Dip the chicken pieces into the beaten eggs.
5. Add the chicken chunks to the cornstarch mixture and toss until well-coated. Work in batches.
6. Cook it in batches in the hot oil until golden and crispy.
7. Remove to a plate and set aside.
8. Discard the oil and wipe the skillet clean.
9. Add all the Sauce ingredients to the same skillet and whisk to combine. Cook it over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until it starts to simmer.
10. Continue to cook for 5 minutes, until the mixture begins to thicken.
11. Once the sauce is thickened, add the chicken and stir to coat.
12. Remove from heat. Serve garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Notes

• Prepare in advance: Have everything ready before starting. This is a fast-moving recipe, so everything should be measured and set out right where they can be reached.
• Uniform sizes: Cut the chicken into pieces about the same size so they cook evenly.
• Shake off excess: Don’t forget to shake off the excess egg and flour so it does not get all caked up.
• Avoid crowding: Don’t crowd the pan. This can cause it to steam instead of frying, which will make the chicken soggy.
• Let it cool: It is essential to remove the chicken from the pan while making the sauce. It has to cool off before adding it back to the sauce to get a crispy coating.

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Meet Carmen Rhoades

Precision is key to a perfect feast, and I apply that rigor to everything I do here. I am deeply involved in measuring, timing, and refining the techniques behind our recipes. I have cooked this dish multiple times, troubleshooting every step so that your experience in the kitchen is seamless and successful.