General Tso’s Chicken

Name: General Tso's Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces chicken breasts, cubed (Cut into even pieces for uniform cooking.); 1 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch) (Use cornstarch for a lighter, crispier texture.); 1 tsp paprika (Adds color and a hint of flavor.); 2 tsp garlic salt (For a savory kick.); 1 1/4 cup sugar (Balances the tanginess of the sauce.); 1 cup water (Helps create the sauce consistency.); 1 cup white distilled vinegar (Provides the signature tang.); 1 tsp salt (Enhances all the flavors.); 6 Tbsp soy sauce (Adds richness and umami.); 1 tsp red chili pepper flakes (optional) (For those who enjoy a bit of heat.)

Looking for a tasty, easy recipe? Try General Tso’s chicken! This classic dish is loved by many. It’s a delightful mix of crunchy chicken and a sweet, tangy sauce. Perfect for busy home cooks, you can whip it up in no time. Plus, it’s fun to make and even better to enjoy. Let’s dive into this quick and satisfying recipe.

Emma Hale Story

Emma Hale was a busy mom who loved cooking. She needed quick meals that her family would adore. One day, she discovered General Tso’s chicken. With its bold flavors and crispy texture, it became a family favorite. Emma appreciated how simple it was. Now, she shares this recipe with everyone looking for a quick, delicious dinner option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this General Tso’s chicken for its speed and flavor. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. The crispy chicken paired with a sweet and savory sauce will have everyone coming back for seconds. This dish is easily customizable. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less red chili pepper flakes. Save it on Pinterest for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal that fits into your busy schedule.

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts, cubed – Cut into even pieces for uniform cooking.
1 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch) – Use cornstarch for a lighter, crispier texture.
1 tsp paprika – Adds color and a hint of flavor.
2 tsp garlic salt – For a savory kick.
1 1/4 cup sugar – Balances the tanginess of the sauce.
1 cup water – Helps create the sauce consistency.
1 cup white distilled vinegar – Provides the signature tang.
1 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors.
6 Tbsp soy sauce – Adds richness and umami.
1 tsp red chili pepper flakes (optional) – For those who enjoy a bit of heat.

How to Make General Tso’s Chicken

Mix flour, paprika, garlic salt, and salt in a bowl.
Coat chicken pieces in the flour mixture.
Heat oil in a pan and fry the chicken until golden.
In a separate pot, combine sugar, water, vinegar, soy sauce, and chili flakes.
Bring to a simmer until thickened.
Pour the sauce over the fried chicken and stir well.

How to Serve

General Tso’s chicken pairs wonderfully with rice. Serve it over fluffy jasmine or brown rice to soak up that delicious sauce. You can also add a side of steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables for a colorful plate. This combination adds nutrition while complementing the flavors of the chicken. For a fun twist, try serving it with crispy egg rolls or spring rolls as an appetizer!

How to Perfect This Recipe

To perfect this General Tso’s chicken, pay attention to the frying process. Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. This gives the chicken a crunchy texture. Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary. Also, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after frying. This allows the juices to settle and keeps the meat moist. Adjust the sauce sweetness to your liking by adding less sugar if desired.

Common Mistakes

Using cold oil: Ensure your oil is hot for crispy chicken.
Overcrowding the pan: Fry in batches to avoid steaming the chicken.
Not letting chicken rest: Resting helps maintain juiciness.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover General Tso’s chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it crispy, reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. If you want to freeze it, place portions in freezer-safe bags. It will last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for the chicken?
You can use tofu, shrimp, or even cauliflower for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use cornstarch instead of flour and gluten-free soy sauce.

How spicy is General Tso’s chicken?
The spice level can vary. The red chili flakes are optional, so adjust according to your preference.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge for easy use.

Conclusion

Ready to spice up your dinner routine? Give this General Tso’s chicken a try! It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for any night of the week. Your family will love it, just like Emma’s family does! Enjoy your cooking adventure!