If you've ever craved the bold flavor and irresistible crunch of restaurant takeout, look no further than the Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe.
This iconic dish, beloved in Chinese-American cuisine, features bite-sized pieces of chicken enveloped in a golden, crisp coating and tossed in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce.
While its origins are linked to Hunan cuisine, General Tso’s Chicken is largely a creation of Chinese-American chefs, capturing the hearts and palates of food lovers across the globe.
It is named after General Tso Tsung-t’ang, a 19th-century Qing dynasty military leader, although the dish itself bears little historical connection to him.
What sets this Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe apart is its ability to marry texture with flavor—delivering a shatteringly crisp exterior and a juicy, tender center, all wrapped in an addictive sauce. Home cooks often shy away from preparing this dish because they believe it requires complex culinary skills.
But with the right approach, you can easily recreate this takeout favorite in your kitchen while having complete control over the quality of ingredients. This culinary adventure not only satisfies your cravings but also brings an exciting, homemade twist to a classic Chinese takeout staple.
For more on the history of General Tso’s Chicken and its evolving place in American culture, visit History.com’s article on General Tso’s Chicken. Let’s dive in and bring this crowd-pleasing Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe to your dinner table.
Ingredients for Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups neutral oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola)
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon dried red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions for Making Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the chicken pieces to the egg mixture and toss to thoroughly coat.
- Place the cornstarch in a separate shallow bowl. Dredge each piece of the egg-coated chicken in cornstarch, ensuring each piece is completely covered. Shake off any excess.
- Heat the frying oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat until the temperature reaches 350°F (175°C). Work in batches to avoid crowding the pan.
- Carefully add the coated chicken to the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Carefully discard most of the frying oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the wok. Lower the heat to medium.
- Add the sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
- Mix the cornstarch slurry and add it to the sauce. Stir gently until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 1-2 minutes.
- Return the crispy chicken to the wok. Toss to coat all the pieces evenly with the sauce. Stir until heated through.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately over steamed rice or with your favorite sides.
Nutritional Information
Enjoying the Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is indulgent, but being mindful of its nutritional profile helps you enjoy it responsibly. A typical serving (about 1 cup with sauce) contains approximately 350-400 calories, 18g of protein, 18g of fat, and 35g of carbohydrates.
The choice of chicken thighs offers juicy texture and more flavor, but switching to chicken breast can reduce fat content. The cornstarch coating, while essential for crispiness, contributes to the carbohydrate count.
Frying the chicken in oil adds to the fat content, but draining it on paper towels and using a light hand with oil helps manage overall intake.
The sauce, while rich and deeply flavorful, is sweetened with sugar; feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey. For more detailed nutritional breakdowns and advice, consult reputable resources such as the USDA FoodData Central for specific ingredient nutrition facts.
Always consider your dietary needs and adjust the recipe accordingly to maintain a balanced meal.
Wine/Beverage Pairings With Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
A well-chosen beverage elevates the enjoyment of the Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe. For wine lovers, a slightly off-dry Riesling or Gewürztraminer pairs beautifully, as their subtle sweetness balances the spiciness and tangy undertones of the sauce.
For beer enthusiasts, a crisp and refreshing lager or pilsner cleanses the palate between bites of the flavorful chicken. Non-alcoholic options such as iced jasmine tea or sparkling water with a twist of lime offer a clean, refreshing contrast that enhances every mouthful.
Avoid bold reds or tannic beverages, which can clash with the umami-rich sauce.
Cooking Tips and Variations
Achieving the perfect Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe at home involves a few tricks. When dredging the chicken in cornstarch, ensure each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum crunch. Frying in small batches is crucial to prevent the oil temperature from dropping, which can result in soggy, greasy chicken.
If you prefer a lighter version, you can opt for shallow frying or even use an air fryer—simply spray the chicken pieces lightly with oil and cook until golden and crispy.
Customizing the sauce allows you to tailor the flavor to your preferences; add more chili flakes for extra heat or a splash more vinegar for tanginess. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce and double-check that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
Vegetarians can substitute extra-firm tofu or cauliflower florets for chicken; just follow the same dredging and frying steps. All elements can be prepped ahead of time—keep the fried chicken warm in a low oven if you're serving a crowd, and reheat the sauce just before tossing together for maximum freshness.
For more expert advice on frying and sauce preparation, Serious Eats’ Guide to Stir-Frying is a great resource.
Serving Suggestions
The Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is best enjoyed fresh from the wok, as the crisp coating absorbs the zesty sauce, creating an irresistible combination of texture and flavor. Serve it over a steaming bowl of fragrant jasmine or basmati rice to soak up every bit of the sauce.
For a colorful, wholesome meal, pair with steamed broccoli, snap peas, or sautéed bok choy. Family-style serving on a large platter garnished with extra green onions and toasted sesame seeds makes for an inviting centerpiece at gatherings.
For weeknight dinners, partner with classic Chinese-American sides like vegetable lo mein, egg fried rice, or a crisp Asian slaw to add crunch and freshness. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and lightly reheated in the oven or air fryer to revive some of the chicken’s signature crispness.
Whether enjoyed solo as a comforting meal or as part of a lively buffet spread, the Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe delivers satisfaction every time.
Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe Health Benefits
While the Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is a delicious treat, it offers a source of lean protein and essential minerals from the chicken and fresh ginger, which is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The garlic used in the sauce provides immune-boosting benefits, while green onions contribute vitamins A and C. Adjusting the recipe by reducing sugar, switching to chicken breast, or using an air fryer can enhance its health profile without compromising flavor. Moderation is key, as frying increases fat and calorie content.
For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin alternatives make the dish accessible. Increasing the ratio of vegetables on your plate or reducing portion size ensures you can regularly enjoy General Tso’s Chicken as part of a balanced diet.
FAQs About Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
Can I make Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe in advance?
While best when freshly made, you can fry the chicken ahead and store it separately from the sauce. Reheat and toss together just before serving for optimum crispness.
Is this recipe spicy?
The default recipe is mildly spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat by increasing or reducing the amount of chili flakes.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast works beautifully and results in a leaner dish. Be mindful not to overcook it, as breast meat can dry out faster than thighs.
How do I make Crispy General Tso’s Chicken gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and verify that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free. Double-check all other sauces and cornstarch brands.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for several minutes to restore crispness. Avoid using the microwave if you want to keep the chicken crispy.
Mastering the Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe at home lets you enjoy a restaurant-quality favorite tailored to your preferences and dietary needs. With its hearty crunch, alluring sauce, and irresistible aroma, this dish promises to impress family and guests alike. The steps are straightforward, and with a few expert tips, home cooks of any skill level can achieve fantastic results. Serve with your preferred sides, pair with complementary beverages, and enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes from making a beloved takeout treat in your own kitchen. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe delivers flavor and comfort every time.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for sauce)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
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1In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with beaten eggs. Toss until evenly coated.
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2Mix together 1/2 cup cornstarch and 1/4 cup flour. Dredge the chicken pieces in the mixture, shaking off excess.
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3Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches until golden, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
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4In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sugar, 1 tbsp cornstarch, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes with 1/2 cup water.
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5Pour sauce mixture into a clean pan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
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6Return the fried chicken to the pan and toss with sauce until evenly coated. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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