General Tso’s Chicken

Why you’ll love this recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, easy, and packs a bold flavor punch in just 25 minutes. The chicken stays crispy while the sauce coats each piece perfectly, and I can adjust the heat with red chili flakes if I like it spicy. It’s a classic takeout favorite that I can make at home with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp garlic salt
• 1 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup white distilled vinegar
• 1 tsp salt
• 6 Tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp red chili pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

I start by coating the cubed chicken pieces in the flour, paprika, and garlic salt mixture to create a light breading. I heat about 3/4 cup of oil in a skillet and fry the chicken in batches until golden and crispy. Once cooked, I set the chicken aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Next, I prepare the sauce by combining sugar, water, vinegar, salt, soy sauce, and red chili flakes (if using) in a saucepan. I bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. I add the fried chicken pieces to the sauce and cook uncovered for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken evenly.

I serve the General Tso’s Chicken hot, ideally over steamed white rice or with sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings. The prep and frying take around 15 minutes, and simmering the chicken in the sauce takes another 10 minutes, for a total of approximately 25 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes make this dish spicier by adding more chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha. I also like tossing in steamed broccoli or bell peppers with the chicken for extra vegetables. For a lighter version, I can bake the breaded chicken instead of frying, though it won’t be as crispy.

Storage/reheating

I store leftover General Tso’s Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, I warm it gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay juicy. I adjust cooking time slightly if the pieces are larger.

Can I make this gluten-free?

I can use cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour and a gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

How spicy is it?

The recipe is mildly spicy, but I can increase the red chili flakes or add a touch of sriracha for more heat.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator. I reheat it before adding the fried chicken.

What should I serve with General Tso’s Chicken?

I like serving it with steamed rice, fried rice, or sautéed vegetables. It also pairs well with noodles for a complete meal.

Conclusion

I love how this General Tso’s Chicken recipe brings the bold flavors of takeout home in a quick and easy way. The crispy chicken coated in sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce is always a hit, and it’s a meal I enjoy making again and again.