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A mouthwatering featured image showcases a perfectly plated serving of General Tso's Chicken, glistening with a savory sauce and garnished with sesame seeds.

Easy General Tso's Chicken

This recipe delivers authentic General Tso's Chicken with a balance of sweet, sour, savory, and spicy flavors. The key is achieving crispy chicken coated in a glossy, thickened sauce, highlighting the Maillard reaction for a depth of flavor.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce or 1-2 dried red chilies, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish
  • Chopped green onions, for garnish
  • Cooked rice, for serving optional

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • small bowl
  • Large skillet or wok
  • Slotted spoon
  • wire rack
  • whisk
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • cutting board
  • knife

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, and white pepper. Add the beaten egg and mix well. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly.
  2. Fry the Chicken: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat (about 350°F). Carefully add the chicken in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack to drain.
  3. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, chicken broth, cornstarch, sesame oil, and hoisin sauce.
  4. Cook the Sauce: Heat a clean wok or skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and chili garlic sauce (or chopped dried red chilies). Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
  5. Combine and Simmer: Pour the sauce mixture into the wok and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
  6. Coat the Chicken: Add the fried chicken to the wok and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
  7. Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately over rice.

Notes

For extra crispy chicken, double fry it. After the first fry, let the chicken cool slightly, then fry it again for another 1-2 minutes. Adjust the amount of sugar and chili garlic sauce to your taste. Fresh ginger and garlic will elevate the flavor of the sauce. General Tso's Chicken is best served immediately. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or wok over medium heat.