Introduction
General Tso’s Chicken is a popular dish that features bite-sized pieces of chicken coated in a crispy layer, then tossed in a flavorful sauce. This delightful recipe combines soy sauce, sweet brown sugar, and a spicy kick from chili garlic sauce, resulting in a delicious meal that is sure to please anyone. Below, you will find the complete list of ingredients along with step-by-step instructions for making this mouthwatering dish.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Sauce:
– 1/3 cup soy sauce
– 3 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
– 1 tablespoon ketchup
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Chicken:
– 1 cup cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Pinch of pepper
– 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Oil for frying
– Chopped green onion for garnish
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy making this delicious General Tso’s Chicken, perfect over a bed of steamed rice and garnished with fresh chopped green onions for added flavor and a pop of color!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce, ketchup, sesame oil, cornstarch, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes until well combined. Set the sauce mixture aside for later use.
Step 2: Dredge the Chicken
In a separate large shallow bowl, mix together 1 cup of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of pepper. Take the bite-sized pieces of chicken breasts and dredge them in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring that each piece is thoroughly coated. Shake off any excess cornstarch and arrange the coated chicken on a large plate.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, use tongs to carefully add the chicken pieces to the skillet in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each piece for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken to a sheet pan lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
After frying the chicken, drain or wipe away the excess oil from the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and allow it to simmer for approximately one minute, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken
Turn off the heat, then return the fried chicken pieces to the skillet. Toss the chicken in the thickened sauce until every piece is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the General Tso’s Chicken over a bed of steamed rice. Garnish the dish with chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
Storage
If you have any leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with steamed broccoli or snap peas for a complete meal.
Adjusting Spice Levels
Feel free to adjust the amount of chili garlic sauce and red pepper flakes to suit your preferred spice level.
Cook techniques
Whisking
Incorporate sauce ingredients smoothly by whisking them together until fully combined. This ensures an even distribution of flavors.
Dredging
Coat the chicken pieces in the cornstarch mixture evenly. This technique helps achieve a crispy texture when frying.
Frying
Heat oil and fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, which ensures even cooking and browning. Fry until golden brown and crispy.
Draining
Transfer cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined sheet pan to remove excess oil, maintaining a crispy texture.
Simmering
Let the sauce simmer for a minute to thicken, intensifying the flavors before mixing with the chicken.
Tossing
Gently toss the fried chicken in the sauce to ensure each piece is well coated with the flavor while maintaining its crispy exterior.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
What can I substitute for rice vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar can be used as alternatives to rice vinegar.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Yes, you can increase the amount of chili garlic sauce or add fresh chili peppers to the sauce.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to retain crispiness.
Conclusion
This General Tso’s Chicken recipe combines a crispy exterior with a savory and slightly sweet sauce, making it a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. The freshness of the garlic and ginger, along with a hint of spice from the chili garlic sauce, elevates the flavors, providing a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by all.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Teriyaki Chicken
Substitute the chili garlic sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter, less spicy flavor.
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Incorporate pineapple chunks and bell peppers in the sauce for a classic sweet and sour combination.
Sesame Chicken
Add toasted sesame seeds to the sauce for a nuttier flavor and garnish with additional green onions.
General Tso’s Tofu
Replace chicken with firm tofu for a delicious vegetarian option, maintaining the same sauce and preparation method.
Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken
Combine honey with the sauce for a sweet twist, increasing the chili garlic sauce for more heat.
Korean Fried Chicken
Usegochujang in the sauce for a unique Korean flavor profile; serve with pickled vegetables for added zest.
