As I sipped my tea on a rainy afternoon, the memory of indulging in that sweet, tangy General Tso’s Chicken from my favorite takeout joint flooded back. It sparked a determination in me to create a homemade version that captures those vibrant flavors, but with my own personal touch. Enter my easy General Tso Sauce, the star of this recipe, which transforms simple chicken into a comforting dish that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish that will impress guests, this homemade sauce and crispy chicken combo is the answer! Plus, it adapts beautifully to vegetarian options, making it versatile enough to please any crowd. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into a delicious adventure!
Why Will You Love This Sauce?
Elevating Flavor: The homemade General Tso Sauce brings a unique twist that store-bought versions can’t match.
Perfect for Everyone: With easy swaps for tofu or veggies, this recipe caters to meat lovers and vegetarians alike.
Quick and Simple: You can whip up this delectable sauce in mere minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Adjustable Spice: Love a kick? Feel free to increase the red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Comfort Food Done Right: This dish encapsulates that nostalgic restaurant flavor, but straight from your kitchen. Serve it with Garlic Sauce Potatoes for a complete meal!
General Tso Sauce Ingredients
• This homemade General Tso Sauce is the key to transforming your dish from ordinary to extraordinary!
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred) – Provides the base flavor and savory umami notes; tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar – Offers a tangy acidity; apple cider vinegar can be used if you’re in a pinch.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Adds the sweet element that balances the sauce; feel free to swap with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce – Introduces sweetness and complexity; can be replaced with additional soy sauce if needed.
- 2 tablespoons chicken broth or water – Helps to thin the sauce for the perfect consistency; vegetable broth works beautifully for vegetarians.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce; alternative thickeners can be utilized based on your preference.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – Infuses a wonderful nutty flavor; omit if there are nut allergies, and use more vegetable oil.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – For sautéing aromatics, enhancing the overall flavor.
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger – Adds a zesty kick; feel free to use ground ginger if fresh isn’t available.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Provides a fragrant base; garlic powder makes a suitable substitute in a pinch.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes – For the heat factor; adjust according to your spice tolerance and preference.
For Garnish
- Sesame seeds – Sprinkle on top to add crunch and visual appeal to your dish.
- Chopped green onions – Offers a fresh, vibrant finish to your General Tso’s Chicken.
With these easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll create a General Tso Sauce that is unforgettable, customizable, and the perfect companion to your chicken or tofu!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade General Tso’s Chicken
Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken thighs with the beaten egg, cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all the chicken pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for 15 to 30 minutes at room temperature, which helps the coating adhere better during frying.
Step 2: Heat Oil
Pour 3 to 4 cups of vegetable oil into a deep skillet, filling it enough to submerge the chicken pieces. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy, as the right temperature is crucial for achieving that crispy texture in the General Tso’s Chicken.
Step 3: Fry Chicken
Once the oil is ready, carefully add the marinated chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each batch for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 4: Prepare Sauce Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, granulated sugar, hoisin sauce, chicken broth or water, and cornstarch until smooth. Make sure the mixture is well combined with no lumps, creating a tangy and sweet General Tso sauce that promises to elevate your chicken dish.
Step 5: Sauté Aromatics
In the now-empty skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced ginger and garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step enhances the flavor base of your General Tso sauce beautifully.
Step 6: Add Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the skillet, stirring well to incorporate the sautéed ginger and garlic. Allow the sauce to simmer over medium heat for about 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens, creating a rich, sticky consistency that will coat the chicken perfectly.
Step 7: Adjust Spice Level
To personalize your General Tso sauce, stir in the red pepper flakes. Taste the sauce and adjust the heat according to your preference, adding more flakes if you desire a spicier kick. This is your chance to make the dish as fiery or mild as you like!
Step 8: Combine Chicken & Sauce
Carefully add the fried chicken back into the skillet, tossing gently to coat each piece with the sweet and tangy General Tso sauce. Ensure that all the chicken is well-coated, allowing the flavors to infuse into the crispy bites.
Step 9: Simmer Together
Let the chicken and sauce simmer together for about 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This brief simmering time helps the chicken absorb the sauce’s delightful sweetness, enriching every bite of your homemade meal.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the General Tso’s Chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for that appealing final touch. Serve this delectable dish over steamed rice to complete your comforting meal delight!
What to Serve with Homemade General Tso’s Chicken
Create a comforting and complete meal that delights the senses and pairs perfectly with this beloved dish.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The delicate aroma and fluffy texture of jasmine rice perfectly balance the sticky sauce and succulent chicken, making each bite a delight.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: Add a crunchy contrast with these bite-sized delights, filled with savory vegetables and served with a sweet dipping sauce for extra flair.
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Garlic Green Beans: A fresh, crisp side that complements the flavor explosion of General Tso’s Chicken with its garlic-infused finish. Toss in a little sesame oil for added depth!
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Cold Sesame Noodles: The nutty flavor and chilled texture bring a refreshing balance to the warmth of the chicken, creating a satisfying meal experience.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad tossed with rice vinegar and sesame seeds that cuts through the richness of the dish and adds a refreshing crunch.
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Sparkling Lemonade: The bright, tangy notes of a chilled sparkling lemonade enhance the sweet and spicy elements in the chicken, proving to be the perfect complement to your meal.
Savoring these pairings alongside your homemade General Tso’s Chicken will elevate your dining experience to new heights!
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade General Tso’s Chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken with the egg, cornstarch, and flour up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover and refrigerate to enhance flavor and ensure a crispy coating. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce mixture and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days — this keeps it fresh while allowing flavors to develop. When you’re ready to serve, fry the marinated chicken and toss it in the prepared sauce for quick restaurant-quality results. By prepping ahead, you save valuable time on busy weeknights without sacrificing deliciousness!
General Tso’s Chicken Variations & Substitutions
Explore delightful twists on General Tso’s Chicken that will cater to your taste and dietary preferences!
- Vegetarian Tofu: Swap chicken for firm tofu, marinating and frying until crispy for a delicious meatless option. Tofu absorbs all those lovely flavors beautifully!
- Seafood Delight: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a quick-cooking seafood version that’s equally satisfying. Simply adjust cooking time for tender, juicy shrimp.
- Extra Sweetness: Add a tablespoon of honey for a sweeter sauce, making it indulgently delightful. The balance of sweet and tangy will surely please.
- Heat It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes for a spicier kick. Don’t shy away from adding your favorite hot sauce for a flavorful dance on the palate.
- Gluten-Free Swap: Replace soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free version, and use gluten-free flour for the coating. Easy adjustments make this dish accessible for everyone!
- Veggie-Packed Stir-Fry: Toss in colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the sauce mix. They not only add nutrition but enhance the flavor and crunch!
- Cooking Oil Alternatives: Use canola or peanut oil to fry the chicken for different flavor profiles. Each oil brings its unique touch to the dish.
- Savory Depth: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly while still offering depth. Pair with your favorite stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal with ease.
Don’t forget to serve your General Tso’s Chicken with a side of delicious Garlic Sauce Potatoes or a succulent Pork Tenderloin Sauce for added heartiness. Enjoy this flavor-packed experience!
Expert Tips for General Tso Sauce
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Buy Quality Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor in your General Tso Sauce. Fresh ingredients make a world of difference!
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Control Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the sugar or substitute with honey. Always taste before serving to adjust!
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Perfect Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) while frying. If too hot, the chicken outside may burn before cooking through.
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Crispiness Matters: For incredibly crispy chicken, allow the coated pieces to rest for 10 minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better.
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Personalize Spice: Feel free to adjust the red pepper flakes in the sauce for your desired heat level. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!
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Batch Cooking: Consider making double the General Tso Sauce and storing it. It works wonderfully for quick stir-fries with vegetables or tofu later on!
How to Store and Freeze General Tso’s Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gently reheat the chicken on the stove or in the microwave to retain its crispy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked General Tso’s Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To bring back the crunch, reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. This method ensures your homemade General Tso’s Chicken remains delicious and crispy!
General Tso’s Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for General Tso’s Chicken?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, look for boneless, skinless thighs that are pinkish and firm without any dark spots. For fresh ginger, pick pieces that are smooth and fragrant, while garlic should be plump and without any soft spots or sprouting.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover General Tso’s Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or microwave to maintain that delightful crunch!
Can I freeze the General Tso’s Chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the cooked chicken to cool completely first, then place it in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring all air is removed. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the oven for the best crispy texture.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your General Tso sauce too thick, simply whisk in a little more chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Add it gradually while stirring over low heat until you reach that beautiful, pourable texture. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, you can mix a little cornstarch with cold water and stir it in to thicken it further.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Very! To create a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli. Simply cut the tofu into cubes, press to drain excess water, and fry until golden before adding to the sauce. This way, you can still enjoy those vibrant General Tso flavors while keeping it plant-based!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! When it comes to allergies, be mindful of the soy sauce if someone has a soy allergy. Use tamari as a gluten-free substitute if needed, and ensure you skip the sesame oil for nut allergies. Optionally, always check the labels for any hidden allergens in the sauces you choose to use.
General Tso Sauce: Elevate Your Home Cooking Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the cubed chicken thighs with the beaten egg, cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper. Cover and marinate for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet and heat over medium-high to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry marinated chicken in batches for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, granulated sugar, hoisin sauce, chicken broth or water, and cornstarch until smooth.
- In the skillet, heat sesame oil and vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced ginger and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet, stirring to incorporate the ginger and garlic. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in red pepper flakes and adjust heat level as desired.
- Add the fried chicken back to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce.
- Simmer the chicken and sauce together for 1 to 2 minutes to meld flavors.
- Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over rice.
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