Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the heart of Chinese-American cuisine! This General Tso's Chicken recipe is not just another dinner option – it's a mouth-watering adventure that combines crispy, golden chicken with a sauce so irresistible, you'll be dreaming about it long after the last bite. Whether you're a takeout enthusiast or a home cooking hero, this recipe will revolutionize your dinner game and impress everyone at the table.
Prep Time: 12 mins
Cook Time: 18 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine chicken pieces with 1/4 cup cornstarch, coating each piece thoroughly and evenly. Shake off excess cornstarch and set aside.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes to create the sauce. Set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it shimmers and is visibly hot.
- Carefully add the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Fry in batches if necessary to maintain proper cooking temperature.
- Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until pieces are golden brown and crispy with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from the skillet and drain on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Pour the prepared sauce into the same skillet, allowing it to simmer and slightly thicken for 2-3 minutes.
- Return the crispy chicken to the skillet, tossing gently to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chopped green onions.
- Serve immediately with steamed rice or your preferred side dish.
Tips
- Cornstarch is Key: Make sure to coat the chicken thoroughly and shake off excess cornstarch for the crispiest exterior.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and perfectly cooked meat.
- Batch Cooking is Crucial: Don't overcrowd the pan – cook chicken in batches to maintain high heat and achieve that signature crispy texture.
- Sauce Consistency: Let the sauce simmer briefly to thicken, but don't overcook – you want it clingy, not goopy.
- Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference: Use fresh garlic and high-quality soy sauce for the most vibrant flavor.
- Garnish Generously: Those chopped green onions aren't just for looks – they add a fresh, sharp contrast to the rich sauce.Pro Tip: Serve immediately after coating the chicken in sauce to maintain maximum crispiness and flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
