Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the ease of preparation with the depth of flavor, all while using ingredients you likely have in your pantry. The Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is a culinary masterpiece that achieves just that. This beloved Chinese-American dish is known for its crispy exterior giving way to tender, juicy chicken, all smothered in a sweet, spicy, and savory sauce. With its rich history and adaptable nature, General Tso’s chicken has become a staple in many households and restaurants alike. In this recipe, we will guide you through a simple, yet impressive, version of General Tso’s chicken that is sure to become a favorite.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors in General Tso’s sauce is unparalleled, combining soy sauce, vinegar, hoisin sauce, and chili peppers to create a depth of taste that is both familiar and exciting.
• The preparation is surprisingly straightforward, requiring minimal specialized ingredients or equipment, making it accessible to cooks of all levels.
• Despite its simplicity, the end result is impressive and sure to delight both family and friends, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup General Tso’s sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Chicken – In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until they are evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving the crispy exterior.
2. Step 2: Cook the Chicken – Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until it is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Step 3: Make the Sauce – In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, add the General Tso’s sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for about 2 minutes, until it has thickened slightly.
4. Step 4: Combine and Serve – Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss everything together until the chicken is well coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds (if using), and serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Handy Tips

• For an extra crispy coating, you can chill the cornstarch-coated chicken in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying.
• If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can reduce the amount of General Tso’s sauce used or add a bit more rice vinegar to balance the flavors.
• Always use high-quality ingredients, especially the General Tso’s sauce, as it makes a significant difference in the final flavor of the dish.

Heat Control

When cooking the chicken and making the sauce, it’s essential to control the heat to prevent burning or undercooking. For the chicken, ensure the oil is hot but not smoking before adding the pieces. For the sauce, a medium heat is ideal to allow for a gentle simmer and even thickening. Adjust the heat as necessary to achieve the perfect balance.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this recipe comes from the cornstarch coating on the chicken, which, when fried, provides a satisfying crunch. To enhance this, make sure the chicken pieces are not overcrowded in the skillet, allowing each piece to cook evenly and preventing the cornstarch from steaming instead of crisping.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For easier cleanup, line your skillet or wok with parchment paper before cooking the chicken and sauce.
• Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the ideal frying temperature (around 350°F) for the crispiest results.
• Prepare all ingredients before starting to cook, a technique known as “mise en place,” to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process.

Storage Tips

• The cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• For freezing, it’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately. The sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months, and the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Reheat the sauce gently over low heat and combine with the reheated chicken.
• Use glass or plastic containers that are airtight and microwave-safe for convenient reheating.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While General Tso’s chicken is typically served hot and fresh, components of the dish can be gifted. For example, you can package homemade General Tso’s sauce in decorative jars, along with a recipe card for the chicken, to give as a unique culinary gift. Add a ribbon and a bag of noodles or rice for a complete gift set.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Version: Add more chili peppers or red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with extra-firm tofu or tempeh, marinated and cooked in a similar manner.
• Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the amount of General Tso’s sauce to decrease the sodium content.

Troubleshooting

• Chicken Not Crispy: This could be due to overcrowding the skillet or not cooking the chicken at a high enough temperature. Try cooking in batches and ensure the oil is hot before adding the chicken.
• Sauce Too Thick: Add a small amount of water or chicken broth to thin out the sauce to your desired consistency.
• Chicken Overcooked: Adjust your cooking time based on the size of your chicken pieces. Smaller pieces will cook more quickly than larger ones.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together? While it’s possible, freezing them separately yields better results in terms of texture and flavor.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? Depending on the brand of General Tso’s sauce and soy sauce you use, this recipe may contain gluten. Look for gluten-free alternatives to make the dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe for larger gatherings. Just be sure to cook the chicken in batches if necessary, to prevent overcrowding the skillet.

Conclusion

The Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. With its balance of crispy and tender textures, combined with the depth of flavors in the sauce, it’s a dish that is sure to please a variety of tastes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe offers a fun and rewarding cooking experience. Feel free to experiment with the flavors and ingredients to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking!