General Tso’s Chicken: A Chinese Takeout Classic
Savor the iconic flavors of General Tso's Chicken with this homemade recipe. Recreate the beloved Chinese takeout dish at home.
General Tso's Chicken, a beloved staple of Chinese-American cuisine, has achieved legendary status for its irresistible combination of flavors and textures. This iconic dish boasts a perfect balance of crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces, bathed in a rich and tangy sauce that's both sweet and savory, with a hint of heat. While it's a mainstay on countless takeout menus, there's something truly special about preparing it in your own kitchen. This homemade recipe not only captures the essence of General Tso's Chicken but also allows you to tailor it to your taste, ensuring each bite is a culinary adventure.
For decades, General Tso's Chicken has delighted diners with its tantalizing aroma, tantalizing the senses and becoming synonymous with comfort food. Its origins, however, remain a subject of debate, with various stories attributing it to different Chinese chefs. Regardless of its precise history, one thing is certain: General Tso's Chicken has earned its place as a cherished classic. This recipe offers you the opportunity to explore its iconic flavors and create a memorable dining experience in the comfort of your own home. So, embark on a culinary journey, and savor the delicious essence of General Tso's Chicken, a true masterpiece of Chinese-American cuisine.
- 1 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 tbsp ginger (minced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (to your taste, optional)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
- Large bowl
- Wok or large skillet
Tongs
Whisk
Small saucepan
Mixing bowls
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the cornstarch and flour until they are evenly coated.
- Step 2: Coat with Egg Wash
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off.
- Step 3: Heat Oil for Frying
- In a wok or large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Step 4: Fry the Chicken
- Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Use tongs to transfer the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
- Step 5: Make the Sauce
- In a small saucepan, combine the minced ginger, minced garlic, chicken broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, granulated sugar, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
- Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Return the cooked chicken to the wok or skillet. Pour the sauce over the chicken and toss until the chicken is well-coated and the sauce clings to it.
- Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the General Tso's Chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds.
- Serve hot over cooked rice.
- can be served with broccoli as well.
