General Tso's Chicken Recipe

Chicken thighs: Boneless and skinless, these are cut into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking and eating.

Soy sauce: A salty, savory sauce that adds depth of flavor to the marinade and sauce.

Rice vinegar: Provides a mild acidity to balance the sweetness in the sauce.

Cornstarch: Used to coat the chicken for a crispy texture and to thicken the sauce.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the sauce, balancing the savory and tangy elements.

Hoisin sauce: A thick, fragrant sauce that adds a rich, umami flavor to the dish.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the chicken to achieve a crispy exterior.

Green onions: Chopped and used as a garnish for a fresh, mild onion flavor.

Sesame seeds: Adds a nutty flavor and a bit of crunch as a garnish.

To achieve the perfect crispy texture for chicken, ensure that the oil is at the right temperature before frying. A good test is to drop a small piece of chicken into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface quickly, the oil is ready. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the wok as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry in batches if necessary to maintain the ideal crispiness.

• chicken thighs - Substitute with tofu: Tofu is a great plant-based alternative that absorbs flavors well and provides a similar texture when cooked.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that offers a similar umami flavor profile.

• rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a similar acidity and tanginess, making it a good substitute.

• cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a great thickening agent that works similarly to cornstarch.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a bit of depth to the sauce, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.

• hoisin sauce - Substitute with plum sauce: Plum sauce offers a similar sweet and savory flavor, making it a suitable replacement.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it ideal for frying.

• green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives provide a mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish similar to green onions.

• sesame seeds - Substitute with sunflower seeds: Sunflower seeds add a nutty flavor and crunchy texture, similar to sesame seeds.

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the chicken soggy.

• Transfer the chicken into an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, separate them with parchment paper to maintain crispiness.

• Store the chicken in the refrigerator if you plan to consume it within 3-4 days. This keeps the flavors intact and the texture enjoyable.

• For longer storage, place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

• Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness. This is especially helpful if you have a bustling kitchen with multiple dishes.

• When ready to enjoy again, reheat the chicken in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This helps restore its crispy texture.

• Alternatively, use an air fryer for reheating. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 5-7 minutes for a quick and crispy result.

• Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken rubbery and less appealing.

• If you have leftover sauce, store it separately in a small container. Reheat it gently on the stove and pour over the reheated chicken for a fresh burst of flavor.

• Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving to enhance the dish's visual appeal and taste.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover General Tso's chicken on a baking sheet, ensuring the pieces are not crowded. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until the chicken is warmed through and the sauce is bubbling gently.

• For a quick fix, use a microwave-safe dish and arrange the chicken in a single layer. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to stir and ensure even heating.

• If you prefer a stovetop method, add a splash of water or chicken broth to a skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover chicken and cover with a lid. Stir occasionally until the chicken is heated through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

• For those with an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the General Tso's chicken in the basket in a single layer. Heat for about 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating and maintain that delightful crispiness.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to marinate the chicken with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch, ensuring even coating.

• Wok: Ideal for frying the chicken and cooking the sauce, as it distributes heat evenly and allows for easy tossing.

• Paper towels: Essential for draining excess oil from the fried chicken, keeping it crispy.

• Measuring spoons: Use these to accurately measure ingredients like soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and hoisin sauce.

• Tongs: Handy for turning the chicken pieces while frying and for tossing them in the sauce.

• Knife: Necessary for cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and chopping the green onions.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting the chicken and green onions.

• Slotted spoon: Useful for removing the fried chicken from the oil, allowing excess oil to drain off.

• Stove: Required for heating the wok and cooking the chicken and sauce.

• Serving dish: Perfect for presenting the finished General Tso's Chicken, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Marinate in advance: Prepare the chicken marinade the night before and let it sit in the fridge. This enhances flavor and saves time on busy days.

Pre-mix the sauce: Combine all sauce ingredients ahead of time and store in a sealed container. This allows you to focus on cooking without pausing to measure.

Use a thermometer: Ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying by using a thermometer. This speeds up the frying process and ensures even cooking.

Chop and store: Pre-chop green onions and store them in the fridge. This reduces prep time when you’re ready to cook.