Just the other day, I overheard a friend lamenting over their endless takeout cycle. “Why can’t I make that crispy General Tso’s Chicken at home?” they sighed. It got me thinking—why not serve up that delicious, sweet and tangy flavor without the hassle of delivery? This homemade General Tso’s Chicken is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fabulous option for busy weeknights. In about an hour, you can whip up tender, golden-brown chicken coated in a glossy sauce that’s better than any takeout! With simple ingredients like hoisin sauce and garlic, this recipe is flexible enough to fit into any dietary needs, including a quick gluten-free adaptation. Ready to trade your fast food for a flavorful homemade dinner? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why choose homemade General Tso’s Chicken?

Deliciously Authentic: Experience the rich, savory taste of this crispy General Tso’s Chicken, which rivals your favorite takeout with a sweet and tangy homemade sauce.

Healthier Option: By making it at home, you control the ingredients, ensuring a fresher, lower-sodium meal that can be easily adjusted to suit dietary preferences, including gluten-free.

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without the drive-through.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a family dinner or entertaining friends, this tasty dish beckons everyone to the table. Serve it alongside steamed jasmine rice, and you’ll recreate that restaurant vibe without ever leaving your kitchen!

Versatile Ingredients: Swap chicken for tofu or even add vibrant veggies like bell peppers to make it your own! Check out my Sticky Garlic Chicken for another delightful twist.

General Tso’s Chicken Ingredients

Unlock the secrets to making this flavorful dish at home with these simple essentials.

For the Batter

Chicken Breasts – Use boneless, skinless pieces cut into bite-sized chunks for a tender bite.
Cornstarch – This is key for achieving that coveted crispiness; you can substitute with rice flour for a gluten-free option.
All-Purpose Flour – Adds structure to your coating; feel free to use gluten-free flour if needed.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust according to your personal preference.
Egg Whites – Whip them well to help bind the coating to the chicken.

For Frying

Vegetable/Canola Oil – Use oil with a high smoke point for best frying results, ensuring your chicken is crispy.

For the Sauce

Hoisin Sauce – This adds a delightful sweetness and depth; if you’re out, a mix of soy sauce and sugar works well as a substitute.
Rice Vinegar – Offers tanginess; you can use apple cider vinegar in a pinch if needed.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Provides that umami flavor while keeping an eye on salt content; tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
Light Brown Sugar – Sweetens and caramelizes the chicken; use granulated sugar as a substitute when necessary.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic gives an aromatic boost, making the dish truly pop.
Ground Ginger/Fresh Ginger – Fresh ginger provides a stronger flavor, adding warmth and spiciness to the sauce.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a kick of heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Cornstarch (in sauce) – This is essential for thickening your sauce to perfection.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to create a homemade General Tso’s Chicken that’s both delicious and satisfying!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for General Tso’s Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Start by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are roughly uniform for consistent cooking. Season the chicken thoroughly with salt and pepper, allowing it to marinate for a few minutes while you prepare the coating. This step ensures the chicken is flavorful and ready to absorb the delightful sauce of the General Tso’s Chicken.

Step 2: Coat Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch and all-purpose flour. Whisk the egg whites in a separate bowl until frothy. Dip each piece of chicken first into the egg whites, allowing excess to drip off before moving it into the flour mixture. Coat well, ensuring each piece is fully covered; this will give the chicken its signature crispy texture when fried.

Step 3: Heat Oil
In a large pan or wok, heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable or canola oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to reach a shimmering heat, around 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping in a small bit of the flour mixture; it should sizzle immediately. This ensures that the oil is hot enough for frying.

Step 4: Fry Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil in batches, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken until each piece is golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken, then let it drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil and maintain its crunchiness.

Step 5: Make Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, low-sodium soy sauce, light brown sugar, minced garlic, fresh ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk thoroughly until combined. This vibrant sauce will be the perfect complement to your crispy chicken, capturing the essence of classic General Tso’s Chicken.

Step 6: Thicken Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, pour in the sauce mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in a little cornstarch mixed with water to help thicken the sauce, allowing it to bubble for about 2–3 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as you want it to reach a slightly thickened, syrupy consistency without burning.

Step 7: Combine
Once the sauce is thickened to your liking, add the crispy fried chicken directly into the saucepan. Toss gently to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated with the luscious sauce. Serve your homemade General Tso’s Chicken immediately over steamed jasmine rice or alongside your favorite vegetables, basking in the delightful aroma you’ve created!

Make Ahead Options

These crispy General Tso’s Chicken are perfect for meal prep! You can marinate and coat the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it well-covered in the fridge (this helps to enhance the flavor and tenderness). Additionally, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days; just give it a good stir before using. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the chicken and toss it in the reheated sauce for a delicious finish. This method not only saves you time during busy weeknights but ensures your homemade General Tso’s Chicken remains just as flavorful and crispy!

What to Serve with Crispy General Tso’s Chicken

Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement the bold flavors of your homemade dish.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Classic and fragrant, this fluffy rice absorbs the sweet and tangy sauce beautifully, making every bite a delight. It’s the perfect base to soak up all that flavor!
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful mixed vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas add a crunchy freshness, balancing the richness of the chicken. The vibrant colors make the meal visually appealing, too!
Egg Rolls: Crispy and savory, these treats provide an enjoyable crunch alongside the crispy chicken, making it feel like a festive takeout night at home.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side with a tangy vinaigrette balances the warmth of General Tso’s Chicken. The coolness of the cucumbers offers a delightful contrast, perfect to cleanse the palate.
Fried Rice: A flavorful upgrade to standard rice, fried rice being packed with veggies and protein can deepen the meal’s satisfaction. The salty, rich flavor complements the sweetness of the chicken wonderfully!
Chili Garlic Noodles: These noodles bring a kick of heat, enhancing the overall spiciness of your meal while providing satisfying carbohydrates for a hearty dinner.
Light Beer or Fruity Spritzer: Sip on a light lager or a refreshing fruity spritzer to cleanse your palate, helping to highlight the fantastic flavors of the chicken as you savor every bite.
Chocolate Mousse: End your meal with a creamy, rich chocolate mousse that provides a sweet counterbalance, leaving you feeling delighted and satisfied.

With these thoughtfully paired options, your family dinner is bound to impress, turning every night into a special occasion!

How to Store and Freeze General Tso’s Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover General Tso’s Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its flavor and texture while keeping it fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Separate the chicken and sauce to preserve crispiness upon reheating.

Reheating: Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water to refresh the sauce if needed.

Tips: When storing, ensure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.

Expert Tips for General Tso’s Chicken

Batch Frying: Fry the chicken in small batches to prevent overcrowding. This ensures each piece gets crispy and perfectly cooked.
Check Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F. If it’s too low, the chicken will absorb oil and become soggy.
Whip Egg Whites: For a better coating, ensure your egg whites are whipped until frothy. This helps the flour stick to the chicken better.
Adjust Sauce Thickness: If the sauce turns too thick, add a splash of water to loosen it up. Remember, the sauce should coat the chicken nicely but not be overly runny.
Flavor Adaptation: Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer crushed red pepper flakes based on your preference—make this General Tso’s Chicken your own!

General Tso’s Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this dish your own by exploring some delicious variations and substitutions!

Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to keep it friendly for those avoiding gluten.
Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for tofu or your favorite vegetables, creating a flavorful vegetarian version packed with goodness!
Sweetness Adjustment: Use honey instead of brown sugar for a subtle twist on sweetness, infusing a different layer of flavor into your dish.
Spice Level: If you like a kick, amp up the crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat—find the perfect balance for your taste buds.
Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli when cooking the chicken to boost nutrition and color without sacrificing flavor.
Soy Sauce Alternatives: Try coconut aminos or liquid aminos for a soy-free alternative that still provides that savory umami flavor.
Baked Version: For a healthier take, bake the coated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway to retain crispiness!
Sauce Variations: Try substituting rice vinegar for apple cider vinegar for a different tanginess while maintaining the essence of the dish.

Customize it the way you like it—get inspired to create a General Tso’s Chicken that will impress your family and friends! If you’re looking for more exciting dinner ideas, check out my French Onion Chicken Rice Bake for another mouth-watering recipe.

General Tso’s Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I select the perfect chicken for General Tso’s Chicken?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts. When selecting, look for pieces that are firm and have no dark spots or odor. Fresh chicken will yield a more tender bite in your General Tso’s Chicken, making your dish extra satisfying.

How should I store leftover General Tso’s Chicken?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This method helps maintain flavor and texture. If you find yourself with a larger batch, consider separating the chicken from the sauce before storing, as this will help retain the chicken’s crispiness.

Can I freeze General Tso’s Chicken? If so, how?
Very! To freeze your General Tso’s Chicken, allow it to cool completely first. Place the chicken and sauce in separate, airtight containers or freezer bags. This way, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before reheating!

Why is my General Tso’s Chicken soggy instead of crispy?
If your chicken turns out soggy, it may be due to overcrowding the frying pan or not maintaining the oil temperature. Ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F to 375°F) before frying, and fry in small batches. This allows the chicken to cook evenly and achieve that delightful crispy texture you’re after!

Are there any dietary considerations for General Tso’s Chicken?
Absolutely! For those following a gluten-free diet, simply substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use tamari instead of soy sauce. Additionally, if you’re concerned about sugar intake, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or opt for a natural sweetener like honey. Always check labels for any potential allergens!