General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
This delightful and flavorful dish is a classic that combines sweet, savory, and spicy elements to create the perfect balance. Known as a popular takeout option, this dish can easily be made at home, ensuring you control the quality of ingredients and satisfy your cravings with ease.
Growing up, family dinners were always something special in our household. I remember the first time my mother attempted to make this dish; it quickly became a family favorite. She would let me stir the sauce while she expertly fried the chicken, bonding us over these shared moments. The aroma that would fill the kitchen was mouthwatering, and now, every time I make it, I am transported back to those cherished times.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are numerous reasons why this dish stands out from other takeout favorites. First, you’ll find that the homemade sauce, with its perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, offers a fresh alternative to store-bought sauces. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also utilizes common pantry ingredients. It’s a versatile recipe, allowing you to adjust the level of spiciness to suit your preferences. Moreover, making it at home means healthier, high-quality ingredients and zero delivery fees!
Ingredients Notes
To craft this dish, you will need chicken, soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes. For the best results, use fresh, boneless chicken thighs; they provide a juicier bite compared to chicken breasts. If you’re out of hoisin sauce, you can substitute it with a mix of soy sauce, peanut butter, and a hint of brown sugar. Always opt for fresh ginger and garlic for the most vibrant flavor. Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by marinating the chicken pieces in soy sauce for at least 15 minutes. This step ensures that each bite is infused with underlying savory flavors.
Step 2
While the chicken is marinating, prepare your sauce. Combine rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes in a bowl. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely.
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Step 3
Heat a pan with oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the marinated chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4
Remove the chicken from the pan, and in the same pan, pour in the sauce mixture. Let it simmer until it thickens slightly before adding the chicken back in. Toss to coat the fried chicken pieces thoroughly in the sauce.
Step 5
Serve hot over a bed of steamed rice, with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a touch of freshness and added crunch.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. When reheating, it’s best to do so on a stovetop to preserve the texture, adding a splash of water if needed to refresh the sauce.
Variations & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, you can bake the chicken instead of frying. To make this recipe vegan, substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken. Increase vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutritive value and flavor depth. For those with gluten sensitivities, use gluten-free soy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish spicier? Absolutely! Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your taste, or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce mix to elevate the heat level.
Is this dish sweet? The recipe does include elements of sweetness, but it is well-balanced with the savory and spicy components. If you prefer it less sweet, reduce the sugar in the sauce to your liking.
Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken a day ahead to enhance the flavors. Simply store them separately in the refrigerator, then proceed with cooking when ready to serve.
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General Tso's Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup cornstarch for coating
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with soy sauce and ground ginger. Let it marinate for 15 minutes.
- Coat the marinated chicken with cornstarch evenly.
- Fry the chicken pieces in a pan until golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, stir-fry broccoli until tender-crisp.
Notes
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