Easy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe for Dinner

Name: General Tso's Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3-4 breasts); 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 tbsp ginger root, grated; 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying); 3 tbsp cornstarch; 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish); 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Recipe By:

Lily Hartwell

Posted:

April 12, 2025

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·Leave a Review

The aroma of crispy chicken coated in a sweet and spicy sauce wafts through the air; it’s like a party for your senses. Imagine biting into tender pieces of chicken that are perfectly glazed with a heavenly mix of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Now that’s what I call an unforgettable flavor experience!

This dish has been a staple in my home since I could remember. My family eagerly anticipates those nights when we whip up our version of General Tso’s Chicken. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or aiming to impress at your next gathering, this dish fits every occasion!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy-to-make General Tso’s Chicken is packed with flavor and makes meal preparation simple.
You can customize it according to your preferences or what’s in your pantry.
Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any plate.
Perfect for weeknight dinners but also great for entertaining friends or family!

I still remember the first time I made this dish; my friends devoured it like ravenous wolves and begged for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for maximum flavor; smashed garlic adds a lovely aroma during cooking.
Ginger Root: Fresh ginger gives a zesty kick; peel it before grating for the best flavor.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to manage salt levels without sacrificing taste.
Brown Sugar: This sweetener balances out the salty soy sauce; light or dark varieties work well.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust these based on your heat preference; they add that signature kick!
Vegetable Oil: Essential for frying; choose an oil with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil.
Green Onions: These bring freshness and color as a garnish; chop them finely before serving.
Cornstarch: Use this to coat the chicken before frying; it creates that crispy texture we all love!
Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and look fantastic as a topping.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and chop the garlic and ginger finely to enhance their flavors during cooking.

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Add chicken pieces and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Dredge the Chicken: Coat each marinated chicken piece lightly with cornstarch. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy outer layer when frying.

Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry chicken pieces in batches until golden brown—about 4-5 minutes per side.

Create the Sauce: In another bowl, mix soy sauce with remaining marinade ingredients. Pour this into the skillet after removing fried chicken to create that delicious glaze.

Add Back the Chicken: Return the crispy chicken to the skillet with the sauce and toss well to coat evenly while letting it simmer for 3-4 minutes.

Serve hot over rice or noodles garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds!

And there you have it—your very own take on General Tso’s Chicken that’s sure to impress anyone who dares to join you at the dinner table! Enjoy every bite of its crispiness mixed with savory-sweet goodness!

You Must Know

Marinate chicken for at least an hour for deeper flavor.
Use cornstarch for a crispy texture, I learned the hard way; flour just doesn’t cut it for that crunch we crave.
Don’t rush the sauce—let it simmer.,It’s like giving your dish a warm hug, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken, then prepare the sauce while it absorbs flavors. Cook the chicken until crispy before combining everything together for that perfect bite.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or veggies for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with spices like ginger or garlic to personalize your sauce further and bring new life to this classic dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, maintaining that delicious crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use high-quality soy sauce for richer flavor.
Pay attention to cooking temperature to avoid burning the chicken.
Always taste as you go; adjusting seasoning is key to success.

The first time I made General Tso’s Chicken, my friends devoured it in minutes and demanded seconds, proving homemade beats takeout every time!

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for General Tso’s Chicken?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and cooking for best results.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

Try tamari or coconut aminos if you need a gluten-free option without sacrificing flavor.

How do I make General Tso’s Chicken spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce while simmering for an extra kick!

0 Shares