Craving a taste of takeout but want to whip it up in your own kitchen? Look no further than this Easy General Tso Chicken recipe! In just 30 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering dish that rivals your favorite Chinese restaurant. With tender, crispy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, this recipe is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a delicious meal at home. Ready to discover the secret to this beloved classic? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine cubed chicken breast with cornstarch, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This will help create a crispy exterior when cooking.
- In a separate bowl, prepare the sauce by whisking together soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and minced ginger until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces.
- Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure all sides are golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the skillet, stirring quickly to coat each piece evenly. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken.
- Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 1-2 minutes to allow the sauce to further set and absorb.
- Transfer the General Tso Chicken to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped green onions for added flavor and color.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or your preferred side dish. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors!
Tips
- Perfectly Crispy Chicken: Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with cornstarch. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful crispy texture that General Tso's chicken is known for.
- High Heat Cooking: Use a large skillet or wok and ensure the oil is hot before adding the chicken. Cooking at medium-high heat helps seal in the juices and gives you that golden-brown crust.
- Sauce Consistency: Allow the sauce to simmer for a couple of minutes after adding it to the chicken. This will help it thicken and cling beautifully to the chicken pieces.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the green onions! They add a fresh pop of flavor and a vibrant touch to your dish.
- Serve with Style: Pair your General Tso Chicken with steamed rice or your favorite side dish to soak up that delicious sauce and create a well-rounded meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 85mg
