General Tso’s Chicken Better Than Takeout Delight

September 13, 2025 by Rosie

Are you ready to whip up a dish that beats takeout? With my recipe for General Tso’s Chicken, you’ll discover how simple ingredients can deliver bold flavors right in your kitchen. Say goodbye to soggy delivery and hello to crispy, perfectly coated chicken drenched in a savory sauce. Let’s dive into the details that will make your home-cooked meal the new favorite. You won’t want to miss this!

Ingredients

Key Ingredients for General Tso’s Chicken

Chicken: Best Cuts and Substitutions

For this dish, I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They are easy to cut and cook quickly. If you want to switch it up, you can use chicken thighs. Thighs are juicier and have more flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if using a different cut.

Fried Coating: Essential Dry Ingredients

The crispy coating makes this dish special. You need these dry ingredients:

1/2 cup cornstarch
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Mix these in a bowl. This mixture helps give the chicken that perfect crunch.

Flavorful Sauce Components

The sauce brings everything together. Here are its key ingredients:

1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1-2 teaspoons chili paste (to taste)

Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor. The soy sauce gives saltiness, while honey adds sweetness. Adjust the chili paste to your preferred spice level.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Chicken

Coating the Chicken: Flour Mixture Explained

To start, you need a good coating for the chicken. In a bowl, mix together:

1/2 cup cornstarch
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

This mixture is key. It gives your chicken a nice, crispy layer. First, dip the chicken pieces in two beaten eggs. This helps the flour stick. Then, dredge them in the flour mix until well coated. This step is important for the crunch you want.

Frying Techniques for Perfect Texture

Now, let’s fry the chicken. Heat 1/4 cup vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken pieces in batches. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This helps each piece cook evenly. When done, set them on a paper towel-lined plate. This will soak up extra oil.

Making the Sauce

Importance of Sautéing Garlic and Ginger

After frying the chicken, it’s time for the sauce. In the same pan, leave about a tablespoon of oil. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon minced ginger. Sauté these for about 30 seconds. The smell will be amazing! This step builds great flavor for your sauce.

Balance of Sweetness and Heat in the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together:

1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1-2 teaspoons chili paste (to taste)

Pour this mixture into the pan with garlic and ginger. Bring it to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. This sauce is where the magic happens! The sweet and spicy flavors will shine.

Combining and Serving

Final Steps for Mixing Chicken and Sauce

Return the fried chicken to the pan. Stir well to coat each piece in the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes. This step ensures the chicken is heated through and fully absorbs the sauce.

Garnishing Tips for Presentation

Once done, it’s time to serve. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. This adds color and a nice crunch. Serve your General Tso’s Chicken hot. It will look and taste even better than takeout!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Best Flavor

Fresh Ingredients vs. Store-Bought Alternatives

Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh chicken tastes better than frozen. Fresh garlic and ginger add strong flavors. I always choose high-quality soy sauce for depth. Store-bought sauces can lack the homemade taste.

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Chicken

To get crispy chicken, coat each piece well. The cornstarch and flour mix helps. Make sure the oil is hot before frying. Fry the chicken in small batches. This keeps the heat steady and helps it cook evenly. Place fried chicken on paper towels to absorb extra oil.

Equipment Recommendations

Best Pans for Frying

A large frying pan or wok works best. Look for a pan with high sides. This helps to keep oil splatter contained. A non-stick surface is great for easy cooking and cleanup.

Tools for Easy Cleanup

Use a slotted spoon to lift the chicken from the oil. This helps to drain excess oil quickly. Keep paper towels handy for a quick cleanup. Have a bowl ready for the used oil. Always be careful while handling hot oil.

Variations

Healthier Substitutions

Low-Calorie Ingredients to Consider

You can easily lighten up General Tso’s Chicken. Swap out some ingredients for healthier options. Use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor. You can also replace honey with agave syrup or use a sugar substitute. For the frying, consider air frying the chicken. It gives a crispy texture without extra oil.

Gluten-Free Version Ideas

If you need a gluten-free version, replace regular soy sauce with tamari. Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for the coating. This way, you can enjoy the dish without worry. Always check labels to ensure the products are gluten-free.

Flavor Boosters

Adding Vegetables for Nutritional Value

Boost the nutrition by adding vegetables. Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas work well. Just sauté them with garlic and ginger before adding the sauce. It adds color and texture to your dish.

Different Heat Levels: Adjusting Spice

Adjust the heat to your liking by changing the chili paste amount. Use less for a milder flavor or add more for extra spice. You can also include sliced fresh chilies for an added kick. This makes the dish unique to your taste.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your General Tso’s Chicken fresh, follow these tips:

Refrigeration Tips for Freshness: Place leftover chicken in an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and prevents odors. It’s best to eat it within 3 days for the best taste.
Freezing Guidelines for Long-Term Storage: If you want to save it longer, freeze the chicken. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Instructions

When reheating, you want to keep that crispy texture:

Best Methods for Maintaining Crispiness: The oven is your best bet. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Spread the chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This helps revive the crispiness.
Safety Tips for Reheating Chicken: Always make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when reheating. This ensures it’s safe to eat. Use a food thermometer for accuracy.

FAQs

Can I use other proteins for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other proteins! Here are some great options:

Tofu: Use firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Press it to remove extra water and then cut it into cubes. Coat and fry it just like the chicken.
Shrimp: This works well too. Just peel and devein the shrimp, then follow the same cooking steps.
Beef: Thinly slice beef, like flank steak, and cook it the same way as the chicken.

Each protein brings a unique flavor and texture to the dish.

What to serve with General Tso’s Chicken?

Pairing your General Tso’s Chicken with the right sides makes for a great meal. Here are some ideal side dishes:

Steamed Rice: White or brown rice soaks up the sauce well.
Fried Rice: For a twist, fried rice adds extra flavor and texture.
Vegetable Stir-Fry: Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas add color and nutrients.
Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls add a nice crunch.

These sides create a balanced and satisfying meal.

How can I make it less spicy?

If you want a milder dish, here are some easy tips:

Reduce Chili Paste: Start with just 1 teaspoon. Taste the sauce and add more if needed.
Add Sugar: A bit more honey can counteract the heat.
Use Mild Sauce: Look for a sweet soy sauce or a less spicy stir-fry sauce.

These adjustments let you control the spice level while keeping the dish tasty.

In this article, we explored the key ingredients for General Tso’s Chicken, from the best chicken cuts to the perfect frying techniques. We uncovered the importance of balancing flavors in the sauce and provided tips for achieving that crispy texture. You now have many variations to try, including healthy substitutions and storage tips to keep leftovers fresh. General Tso’s Chicken can be a fun dish with endless possibilities. Enjoy creating your perfect version and impressing your family and friends!

$- Chicken: Best Cuts and Substitutions For this dish, I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They are easy to cut and cook quickly. If you want to switch it up, you can use chicken thighs. Thighs are juicier and have more flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if using a different cut. - Fried Coating: Essential Dry Ingredients The crispy coating makes this dish special. You need these dry ingredients: - 1/2 cup cornstarch - 1/3 cup all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Mix these in a bowl. This mixture helps give the chicken that perfect crunch. - Flavorful Sauce Components The sauce brings everything together. Here are its key ingredients: - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 1/4 cup chicken broth - 1/4 cup honey - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1-2 teaspoons chili paste (to taste) Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor. The soy sauce gives saltiness, while honey adds sweetness. Adjust the chili paste to your preferred spice level. Coating the Chicken: Flour Mixture Explained To start, you need a good coating for the chicken. In a bowl, mix together: - 1/2 cup cornstarch - 1/3 cup all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper This mixture is key. It gives your chicken a nice, crispy layer. First, dip the chicken pieces in two beaten eggs. This helps the flour stick. Then, dredge them in the flour mix until well coated. This step is important for the crunch you want. Frying Techniques for Perfect Texture Now, let’s fry the chicken. Heat 1/4 cup vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken pieces in batches. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This helps each piece cook evenly. When done, set them on a paper towel-lined plate. This will soak up extra oil. Importance of Sautéing Garlic and Ginger After frying the chicken, it’s time for the sauce. In the same pan, leave about a tablespoon of oil. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon minced ginger. Sauté these for about 30 seconds. The smell will be amazing! This step builds great flavor for your sauce. Balance of Sweetness and Heat in the Sauce In a bowl, whisk together: - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 1/4 cup chicken broth - 1/4 cup honey - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1-2 teaspoons chili paste (to taste) Pour this mixture into the pan with garlic and ginger. Bring it to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. This sauce is where the magic happens! The sweet and spicy flavors will shine. Final Steps for Mixing Chicken and Sauce Return the fried chicken to the pan. Stir well to coat each piece in the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes. This step ensures the chicken is heated through and fully absorbs the sauce. Garnishing Tips for Presentation Once done, it’s time to serve. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. This adds color and a nice crunch. Serve your General Tso’s Chicken hot. It will look and taste even better than takeout! Fresh Ingredients vs. Store-Bought Alternatives Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh chicken tastes better than frozen. Fresh garlic and ginger add strong flavors. I always choose high-quality soy sauce for depth. Store-bought sauces can lack the homemade taste. Tips for Perfectly Crispy Chicken To get crispy chicken, coat each piece well. The cornstarch and flour mix helps. Make sure the oil is hot before frying. Fry the chicken in small batches. This keeps the heat steady and helps it cook evenly. Place fried chicken on paper towels to absorb extra oil. Best Pans for Frying A large frying pan or wok works best. Look for a pan with high sides. This helps to keep oil splatter contained. A non-stick surface is great for easy cooking and cleanup. Tools for Easy Cleanup Use a slotted spoon to lift the chicken from the oil. This helps to drain excess oil quickly. Keep paper towels handy for a quick cleanup. Have a bowl ready for the used oil. Always be careful while handling hot oil. {{image_2}} - Low-Calorie Ingredients to Consider You can easily lighten up General Tso's Chicken. Swap out some ingredients for healthier options. Use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor. You can also replace honey with agave syrup or use a sugar substitute. For the frying, consider air frying the chicken. It gives a crispy texture without extra oil. - Gluten-Free Version Ideas If you need a gluten-free version, replace regular soy sauce with tamari. Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for the coating. This way, you can enjoy the dish without worry. Always check labels to ensure the products are gluten-free. - Adding Vegetables for Nutritional Value Boost the nutrition by adding vegetables. Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas work well. Just sauté them with garlic and ginger before adding the sauce. It adds color and texture to your dish. - Different Heat Levels: Adjusting Spice Adjust the heat to your liking by changing the chili paste amount. Use less for a milder flavor or add more for extra spice. You can also include sliced fresh chilies for an added kick. This makes the dish unique to your taste. To keep your General Tso’s Chicken fresh, follow these tips: - Refrigeration Tips for Freshness: Place leftover chicken in an airtight container. This keeps moisture in and prevents odors. It’s best to eat it within 3 days for the best taste. - Freezing Guidelines for Long-Term Storage: If you want to save it longer, freeze the chicken. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, you want to keep that crispy texture: - Best Methods for Maintaining Crispiness: The oven is your best bet. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Spread the chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This helps revive the crispiness. - Safety Tips for Reheating Chicken: Always make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when reheating. This ensures it’s safe to eat. Use a food thermometer for accuracy. Yes, you can use other proteins! Here are some great options: - Tofu: Use firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Press it to remove extra water and then cut it into cubes. Coat and fry it just like the chicken. - Shrimp: This works well too. Just peel and devein the shrimp, then follow the same cooking steps. - Beef: Thinly slice beef, like flank steak, and cook it the same way as the chicken. Each protein brings a unique flavor and texture to the dish. Pairing your General Tso's Chicken with the right sides makes for a great meal. Here are some ideal side dishes: - Steamed Rice: White or brown rice soaks up the sauce well. - Fried Rice: For a twist, fried rice adds extra flavor and texture. - Vegetable Stir-Fry: Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas add color and nutrients. - Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls add a nice crunch. These sides create a balanced and satisfying meal. If you want a milder dish, here are some easy tips: - Reduce Chili Paste: Start with just 1 teaspoon. Taste the sauce and add more if needed. - Add Sugar: A bit more honey can counteract the heat. - Use Mild Sauce: Look for a sweet soy sauce or a less spicy stir-fry sauce. These adjustments let you control the spice level while keeping the dish tasty. In this article, we explored the key ingredients for General Tso's Chicken, from the best chicken cuts to the perfect frying techniques. We uncovered the importance of balancing flavors in the sauce and provided tips for achieving that crispy texture. You now have many variations to try, including healthy substitutions and storage tips to keep leftovers fresh. General Tso's Chicken can be a fun dish with endless possibilities. Enjoy creating your perfect version and impressing your family and friends!$