Experience the magic of your favorite Chinese takeout right in your own kitchen with this incredible homemade General Tso’s Chicken recipe. Each succulent piece of chicken is enveloped in a perfectly balanced sweet and spicy sauce – a truly easy dish that promises to be even better than what you’d get from the restaurant!
PIN THIS DELICIOUS RECIPE FOR LATER!
Craving more homemade Chinese-inspired dishes? Explore some of our other top picks for bringing authentic Asian flavors to your dinner table: Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe, a classic favorite; Kung Pao Chicken, for those who love a nutty, savory kick; Crispy Homemade Egg Rolls, perfect as an appetizer; and our incredibly quick Pressure Cooker Cashew Chicken.
Homemade General Tso’s Chicken: Your New Go-To Takeout Recipe
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of recreating your favorite restaurant dishes in your own kitchen, especially when it comes to beloved Chinese takeout. This homemade General Tso’s Chicken recipe is a true game-changer, quickly becoming a staple for several compelling reasons. Firstly, it offers a healthier alternative to the often-greasy restaurant version, allowing you to control the ingredients and cooking methods without sacrificing an ounce of flavor. Secondly, its incredible simplicity means dinner can be on the table in as little as 30 minutes. In fact, you might find yourself spending more time preparing your side of fluffy rice than you do actually cooking this mouthwatering chicken!
Forget the long waits and questionable ingredients of traditional takeout; with this recipe, you’re in control. The irresistible blend of sweet, spicy, and savory notes makes every bite a culinary delight. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this General Tso’s Chicken is designed for success, delivering restaurant-quality taste with homemade ease and confidence.
Unraveling the Enigmatic Origins of General Tso’s Chicken
The history behind General Tso’s Chicken is as intriguing as its flavor profile. It’s fascinating how some of the most popular dishes have origins that are either shrouded in mystery or possess multiple captivating narratives. General Tso’s Chicken is undoubtedly one such culinary enigma, a dish so universally loved, yet its exact beginnings remain a topic of debate and discussion.
The most widely accepted theory attributes the dish’s name to General Zuo Zongtang (also spelled Tso Tsung-t’ang), a formidable military leader and statesman from Hunan province in China during the 19th century. However, this connection is often met with skepticism. Remarkably, his own descendants have stated that they are unfamiliar with the dish, asserting that it is not a traditional staple from his native region. This suggests a potential disconnect between the dish’s name and its true geographical or historical roots, adding to the allure of its backstory.
Another prominent theory credits its creation to Peng Chang-kuei, a renowned Hunanese chef. According to this account, Chef Peng first developed the dish in Taiwan in the 1950s, adapting traditional Hunanese flavors for a different palate. He later brought his culinary genius to New York City, opening a restaurant where General Tso’s Chicken quickly became his signature specialty and a house favorite. It was here, in the bustling culinary landscape of America, that the dish truly began its meteoric rise to fame.
Regardless of its precise origin story, what is undeniable is the dish’s immense popularity. Today, General Tso’s Chicken stands as one of the most celebrated and ubiquitous Chinese dishes across America. Its distinctive combination of crispy chicken and a sticky, flavorful sauce has captured the hearts and taste buds of millions, solidifying its place as a beloved takeout classic.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Homemade General Tso’s Chicken
Crafting the perfect General Tso’s Chicken begins with understanding and selecting the right ingredients. While the overall list is straightforward, a few key components truly elevate this dish from good to absolutely exceptional. Here are some detailed notes to guide you through your ingredient selection:
- Hoisin Sauce: This is a powerhouse ingredient, a rich and fragrant sauce that is a cornerstone of many Chinese and Vietnamese dishes. You might think of it as the “Chinese BBQ sauce” due to its thick consistency and incredible depth of flavor. Hoisin sauce is wonderfully versatile, offering a unique balance of sweet and salty notes that adds complexity to stir-fries, marinades, and glazes. We use it frequently in our kitchen, and it’s the secret weapon behind recipes like our Hoisin Glazed Chicken. You should be able to find a good quality hoisin sauce in the Asian aisle of most major grocery stores.
- Rice Wine Vinegar: Often simply labeled “rice vinegar,” these two terms refer to the same ingredient. It’s a mild, slightly sweet vinegar made from fermented rice, indispensable for adding a delicate tang to Asian cuisine without the harshness of other vinegars. So, if your pantry holds “rice vinegar” instead of “rice wine vinegar,” you’re perfectly equipped! Just be mindful not to confuse it with actual rice wine (like Shaoxing wine or Mirin), which is an alcoholic beverage used in cooking and has a distinctly different flavor profile.
- Fresh Ginger: This recipe calls for a generous amount of fresh minced ginger – a full 3 tablespoons. Don’t be tempted to reduce it or skip it entirely! While it may seem like a lot, this quantity is crucial for achieving that bright, pungent, and warming flavor that defines authentic General Tso’s Chicken. It doesn’t overpower the dish; instead, it perfectly complements the sweetness and spice, creating a harmonious balance. Fresh ginger also offers fantastic health benefits, making it a delicious addition.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: For this recipe, we typically use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized 1-inch pieces. This allows for quick cooking and ensures each piece is tender and evenly coated in sauce. However, if you’re looking for an even richer flavor and a slightly more tender texture, feel free to substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Thighs are more forgiving and hold up wonderfully to pan-frying, offering a delicious variation.
- Other Essential Ingredients: Don’t forget the other supporting cast members that complete this flavorful ensemble: brown sugar for that deep sweetness, ketchup for a touch of acidity and color, soy sauce for umami depth, cornstarch for coating the chicken and thickening the sauce, extra virgin olive oil for cooking, vibrant green onions, a pinch of red pepper flakes for adjustable heat, and sesame oil for a final aromatic flourish. Each plays a vital role in creating the signature taste of General Tso’s Chicken.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Homemade General Tso’s Chicken
Making General Tso’s Chicken at home is surprisingly simple, and with these clear steps, you’ll achieve takeout-level deliciousness in no time. Follow along to create a meal that will impress everyone at your table:
Step 1: Prepare the Irresistible Sauce
The heart of any General Tso’s Chicken lies in its sauce. Fortunately, preparing it is the easiest part! In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, hoisin sauce, rice wine vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, and water until everything is well combined and the sugar has dissolved. This mixture will be your golden liquid, brimming with sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Set it aside for now, as it will be added to the skillet later.
Step 2: Coat and Brown the Chicken
For that signature crispy exterior, we’ll coat the chicken with cornstarch. Place the cornstarch in a large resealable plastic bag. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces to the bag, seal it tightly, and shake vigorously until each piece of chicken is evenly coated. This cornstarch coating will not only create a beautiful golden-brown crust but also help the sauce cling perfectly to the chicken.
Next, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet (or a traditional wok, if you have one!) over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cornstarch-coated chicken in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken until it’s beautifully browned on all sides. Don’t worry about cooking it through completely at this stage, as it will finish cooking in the sauce later. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a plate, covering it loosely to keep it warm.
Step 3: Build Layers of Flavor with Aromatics
With the chicken set aside, it’s time to build the aromatic base for our sauce. Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Reduce the heat slightly to medium. Immediately add the sliced green onions (reserving some for garnish), fresh minced ginger, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (adjust to your preferred level of heat). Sauté these aromatics for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until they become wonderfully fragrant. This step is crucial for infusing the entire dish with a rich, savory depth and a subtle spicy kick.
Step 4: Combine Everything and Achieve Perfection
Now, pour your prepared sauce mixture into the skillet with the fragrant aromatics. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for just 1 to 2 minutes, or until it visibly thickens slightly. The cornstarch from the chicken (and some in the sauce itself) will help create that classic glossy, sticky texture. Once the sauce has thickened, return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet. Toss the chicken gently to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated in the luscious sauce. Continue to cook for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked all the way through and the sauce has caramelized beautifully around it. Finally, stir in the sesame oil for a nutty, aromatic finish.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Your homemade General Tso’s Chicken is now ready to be devoured! We highly recommend serving this delightful dish over a bed of freshly prepared white rice to soak up all that incredible sauce. For an extra touch of visual appeal and flavor, sprinkle generously with additional sliced green onions and a handful of sesame seeds. For an even deeper nutty flavor, consider toasting your sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan before sprinkling them over the finished dish. Get ready for rave reviews!
Tips for General Tso’s Success
Achieving a truly exceptional homemade General Tso’s Chicken is easy with a few simple tips. These insights will help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your dish:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When browning the chicken, work in batches if necessary. Overcrowding cools down the pan and steams the chicken instead of browning it, preventing that desired crispy texture.
- Fresh Ginger is Key: While pre-minced jarred ginger can be convenient, fresh ginger provides a far more vibrant and authentic flavor. Take the extra minute to mince it yourself for a noticeable difference.
- Adjust Spice to Taste: The amount of red pepper flakes is flexible. If you prefer less heat, start with a tiny pinch or omit it. For a bolder kick, add a bit more.
- Taste and Adjust the Sauce: Before adding it to the pan, taste your sauce mixture. This is your chance to tweak the balance of sweet, salty, and tangy to your preference. Add a little more brown sugar for sweetness, soy sauce for saltiness, or rice wine vinegar for tang.
- For Crispier Chicken: If you desire extra crispy chicken, you can lightly deep-fry or air-fry the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces until golden and cooked through, then proceed with the sauce step as directed.
- Make-Ahead Tips: The sauce can be mixed a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This cuts down on prep time on a busy weeknight.
- Storage and Reheating: Leftover General Tso’s Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has become too thick.
What to Serve with General Tso’s Chicken
While General Tso’s Chicken is undeniably the star of the show, pairing it with the right side dishes can turn a delicious meal into a truly complete and satisfying experience. Here are some of our favorite recommendations:
- Steamed White Rice: The classic choice for a reason! Fluffy white rice is the perfect canvas for soaking up every last drop of that savory, sweet, and spicy sauce. Jasmine rice is particularly fragrant and works wonderfully.
- Brown Rice: For a healthier, nuttier alternative with more fiber, brown rice is an excellent choice. Its earthy flavor complements the chicken beautifully.
- Quinoa: If you’re looking for a protein-packed, gluten-free option, quinoa makes a fantastic base. Its texture adds an interesting contrast to the tender chicken.
- Steamed or Sautéed Vegetables: Balance out the richness of the chicken with a side of fresh, crisp vegetables. Broccoli florets, snap peas, bell peppers, carrots, or bok choy are all excellent choices. Lightly steam them and then toss with a touch of sesame oil or a sprinkle of soy sauce.
- Easy Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls: If you’re feeling ambitious and want the full takeout experience, whip up a batch of our Easy Egg Rolls or fresh spring rolls for a delightful appetizer.
- Lo Mein or Fried Rice: For a heartier meal, serve your General Tso’s Chicken alongside a simple Easy Lo Mein or a quick homemade fried rice.
More Chinese Takeout Favorites You Can Master at Home
If you’ve enjoyed creating this General Tso’s Chicken, you’re in for a treat! We have a fantastic collection of other beloved Chinese takeout recipes that are surprisingly simple to recreate in your own kitchen:
Mongolian Beef: A popular dish featuring tender beef slices coated in a savory, slightly sweet sauce.
Orange Chicken: Crispy fried chicken tossed in a sticky, sweet, and tangy orange sauce – a crowd-pleaser for sure.
Orange Teriyaki Beef with Noodles: A delightful fusion of flavors, combining zesty orange with rich teriyaki over noodles.
Chinese Chicken: A versatile and flavorful chicken dish that’s perfect for a weeknight.
Easy Lo Mein Recipe: Skip the takeout noodles and make your own incredibly fresh and customizable lo mein.
Chicken Oriental: A flavorful and vibrant chicken and vegetable stir-fry that’s both healthy and delicious.
LOOKING FOR MORE DELICIOUS & FREE RECIPES?
Subscribe to our free recipe newsletter to get new family-friendly recipes delivered straight to your inbox each week! Find us sharing even more family-friendly inspiration and culinary adventures on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram.
General Tso Chicken
Pin
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil divided
- 6 green onions sliced, plus more for topping
- 3 tablespoons fresh minced ginger
- A pinch of red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Sesame seeds for topping
- Prepared rice for serving
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, hoisin sauce, rice wine vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, and water. Set aside.
- Place the cornstarch in a large resealable plastic bag. Add the chicken and seal the bag, then shake until the chicken is coated with the cornstarch.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken just until browned. Remove from the skillet to a plate and cover to keep warm.
- Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil to the skillet, then add the green onions, the ginger, and the red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the sauce mixture and bring to a boil. Simmer for 2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens a bit. Add the chicken back into the skillet, toss to coat with the sauce, and continue to cook until the chicken is cooked through. Stir in the sesame oil.
- Serve over rice, garnished with additional green onions and sesame seeds.
Recipe Notes:
Nutrition Information
Calories: 349kcal (17%),
Carbohydrates: 44g (15%),
Protein: 28g (56%),
Fat: 10g (15%),
Saturated Fat: 1g (6%),
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g,
Trans Fat: 0g,
Cholesterol: 55mg (18%),
Sodium: 1027mg (45%),
Fiber: 1g (4%),
Sugar: 33g (37%)