General Tso’s Chicken
Introduction
General Tso’s Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish loved for its sweet and tangy sauce and crispy chicken. It’s a delightful meal that combines flavors and textures, making it a favorite for many. The dish is usually served with rice and is perfect for dinner at home or gatherings with friends and family.
Why Make This Recipe
Making General Tso’s Chicken at home is simple and rewarding. You get to enjoy fresh ingredients, control the sweetness and spice levels, and create a meal that rivals your favorite restaurant dish. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your family and friends with your cooking skills!
How to Make General Tso’s Chicken
Follow these easy steps to create your own General Tso’s Chicken at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Green onions for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Directions:
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss them with cornstarch and flour.
- Beat the eggs in a bowl and dip the chicken pieces into the egg mixture, then back into the cornstarch mixture.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken pieces until they are golden brown and cooked through, then remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, combine soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add the fried chicken back into the skillet, stirring to coat with the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
How to Serve General Tso’s Chicken
General Tso’s Chicken is best served hot over a bed of steamed rice or fried rice. You can also pair it with a side of stir-fried vegetables. Don’t forget to garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation!
How to Store General Tso’s Chicken
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool down to room temperature and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make General Tso’s Chicken
- For extra crunch, double fry the chicken. Fry it once, let it cool, and then fry it again before adding the sauce.
- Adjust the sugar and soy sauce to suit your taste. If you like it sweeter, add more sugar.
- Freshly minced garlic and ginger will give the dish a stronger flavor.
Variation
You can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting chicken with tofu or vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli. The cooking method will remain the same.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. They will work just as well in this recipe.
2. What can I serve with General Tso’s Chicken?
You can serve it with steamed rice, fried rice, lo mein, or a side of stir-fried vegetables.
3. Can I make General Tso’s Chicken spicy?
Yes! You can add crushed red pepper flakes or chili paste to the sauce for some heat to make it spicy.
Enjoy making and savoring this delicious dish at home!
