Generel Tso’s Chicken

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Generel Tso’s Chicken: The Ultimate Crispy & Saucy Takeout Classic

Few dishes capture the irresistible allure of American-Chinese cuisine quite like Generel Tso’s Chicken. With its masterful balance of crispy battered chicken, a sweet-and-spicy sticky sauce, and a hint of savory umami, it’s little wonder that this restaurant favorite has become a dinner staple around the globe. Whether you grew up enjoying Generel Tso’s Chicken as a special treat or it’s your go-to comfort food for Friday takeout, learning to make it at home opens up a world of flavor—plus total control over the ingredients. In this comprehensive recipe guide, we’ll show you how to recreate authentic-tasting Generel Tso’s Chicken in your own kitchen, while mixing in pro tips for perfectly crisp chicken every time. Let’s embark on a flavor-packed journey, bringing the best of your favorite restaurant right to your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love Generel Tso’s Chicken

• Ultimate comfort food: crispy, saucy, and satisfying in every bite
• Bursting with sweet, tangy, and savory flavors—perfectly balanced for every palate
• Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or spice levels
• Much healthier (and more affordable!) than takeout
• A crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings

Ingredients for Generel Tso’s Chicken

The heart of Generel Tso’s Chicken lies in its bold flavors and contrasting textures. Here’s what you’ll need to bring those classic tastes to life:

• Chicken Thighs: 1.5 pounds, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces

(Chicken thighs offer extra juiciness, but breast meat works in a pinch.)

• For Marinade:
• Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
• Shaoxing Wine (or dry sherry): 1 tablespoon
• Fresh Ginger: 1 teaspoon, grated
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• White Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
• For Breading:
• Cornstarch: 1 cup
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup
• Baking Powder: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for extra crispness)
• Eggs: 2, beaten (to help the breading stick)
• Oil for Frying: Neutral-flavored, like vegetable or canola
• Generel Tso’s Sauce:
• Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup
• Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup
• Rice Vinegar: 3 tablespoons
• Hoisin Sauce: 2 tablespoons
• Sugar: 3 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
• Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (mixed with 2 tablespoons water for slurry)
• Dried Red Chilis: 8-10, whole (adjust to heat preference)
• Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon
• Aromatics & Vegetables:
• Green Onions: 4, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Fresh Garlic: 2 more cloves, minced
• Fresh Ginger: 1 teaspoon, minced

These ingredients deliver that signature Generel Tso’s Chicken flavor—crispy chicken, a vibrant sauce, and a note of heat and aroma from ginger, garlic, and chili.

Necessary Tools

Making restaurant-quality Generel Tso’s Chicken at home doesn’t require fancy equipment, but having the right tools at hand ensures a stress-free cooking experience and even better end results.

• Large Mixing Bowls: For marinating the chicken and tossing with breading
• Sharp Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping chicken and vegetables safely and efficiently
• Wok or Heavy-Bottomed Deep Skillet: A wok is perfect for both frying and quickly tossing ingredients, but any wide, deep skillet will work
• Slotted Spoon or Spider Strainer: For removing fried chicken pieces from hot oil
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy in sauce and marinade
• Whisk: Essential for blending sauces and batter
• Tongs or Chopsticks: For turning chicken pieces in hot oil and stirring ingredients in the wok
• Sheet Pan or Plate with Paper Towels: For draining fried chicken before saucing
• Saucepan (optional): To prepare the sauce separately if your wok is occupied

With these kitchen basics, you’ll deliver crisp and flavorful Generel Tso’s Chicken straight from your stove.

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

Every cook brings their own spin to Generel Tso’s Chicken, and one of the joys of homemade meals is cater them to your preferences and pantry staples. Here are some flexible ingredient options and tips:

• Chicken Cuts: While boneless, skinless chicken thighs deliver the juiciest results, chicken breast is a leaner alternative that still soaks up the bold sauce beautifully. Consider using tofu or tempeh for a vegan or vegetarian twist—coat in cornstarch and pan-fry until crispy before adding to the sauce.
• Breading Alternatives: Cornstarch is king for classic crunch, but you can substitute with potato starch or a 50/50 rice flour blend for gluten-free needs. Skip the flour entirely if you’re looking for an extra crispy shell.
• Sauce Variations: Feel free to play with sauce ingredients:
• Tamari can stand in for soy sauce for gluten-free diets.
• Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar is a solid swap for rice vinegar (though with a slightly more pronounced tang).
• Brown sugar or honey can substitute the white sugar for more depth or natural sweetness.
• If hoisin sauce isn’t available, mix extra soy sauce with a dash of sugar and Chinese five-spice.
• Add Mushrooms and Vegetables: Make this dish a balanced meal by tossing in chopped bell peppers, broccoli florets, snap peas, or mushrooms. Sauté before adding the fried chicken for vibrant color and crunch.
• Adjust the Heat: The level of spiciness is highly customizable. Omit dried red chilis for mild, or add a splash of sriracha or a pinch of chili flakes for extra fiery flavor.
• Lower-Sodium Versions: Use low-sodium soy sauce and homemade chicken broth if you’re monitoring salt intake.

Don’t be afraid to personalize Generel Tso’s Chicken based on your family’s favorites or ingredient availability. The flexibility is part of what makes this recipe such a perennial favorite at home!

How to Make Generel Tso’s Chicken

Crafting the perfect Generel Tso’s Chicken at home is a simple but rewarding process. The flow usually goes: marinate the chicken, bread and fry, build the signature sauce, then toss everything together for maximum flavor. Let’s break down each step for foolproof results.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken thigh pieces in a large bowl. Pour in 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon white pepper. Mix well, ensuring all the chicken is coated. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours covered in the refrigerator. This simple marinade amplifies the juiciness and infuses the chicken with flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

While the chicken marinates, set up your breading station. In one bowl, whisk two eggs. In another, combine 1 cup cornstarch, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder if using. The eggs help the breading adhere, while the cornstarch keeps the chicken exceedingly crispy.

Step 3: Bread and Fry the Chicken

Heat about 2 inches of neutral oil in your wok or skillet over medium-high heat (to 350°F/175°C). Meanwhile, dip each marinated chicken piece first in the beaten eggs, then dredge in the cornstarch-flour mixture. Fry chicken in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and ultra-crispy—about 4-5 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon or spider to transfer fried chicken onto a paper-towel-lined tray.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While frying, whisk together 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 3 tablespoons rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce, and 3 tablespoons sugar in a bowl. In a separate cup, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water for a slurry.

Wipe out or carefully remove excess oil from the wok, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Heat over medium, add minced garlic, ginger, and dried chilis—sauté just until fragrant. Pour in the sauce mixture, bring to a simmer, and whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Stir until thickened and glossy, about 2-3 minutes. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon sesame oil.

Step 5: Toss It All Together

Return the fried chicken to the wok with the sauce and toss to fully coat, then add green onions (and any quick-cooking veggies you prefer). Stir for 1-2 minutes—just enough for everything to be covered in that sticky, shiny sauce without losing the chicken’s crunch.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon the finished Generel Tso’s Chicken over steamed white rice or your favorite grain. Garnish with extra green onions or toasted sesame seeds for extra flair. Serve immediately for maximum crispiness and flavor!

Serving Suggestions

Generel Tso’s Chicken shines as the star of any table, but consider these creative ways to round out your meal:

• Serve atop fluffy jasmine or long-grain white rice, or opt for brown rice for extra fiber and nutty flavor.
• Try with steamed broccoli, stir-fried green beans, or sautéed bok choy for a nutrient boost and a pop of color.
• For a low-carb adaptation, serve the saucy chicken with cauliflower rice or wrapped in crisp lettuce cups.
• Pair alongside other classic Chinese-American dishes like vegetable lo mein, potstickers, or wonton soup for a homemade takeout feast.
• Add sliced red chilis and a spritz of lime for a fresh, fiery twist.

Hosting friends? Portion the chicken into small bowls or lettuce wraps for shareable appetizers. However you plate it, Generel Tso’s Chicken dazzles both taste buds and eyes alike.

Pro Tips & Tricks

Knocking your homemade Generel Tso’s Chicken out of the park comes down to a few key tips:

• Make sure your oil is hot enough (350°F/175°C) before frying so the chicken crisps instantly and doesn’t absorb excess oil.
• Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lower oil temperature and result in soggy breading.
• Marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes for maximum tenderness and flavor infusion.
• Double-coat chicken pieces for extra crunch—dip in egg, dredge, then repeat.
• Deglaze the wok with a splash of water or broth after sautéing aromatics to dissolve flavorful browned bits.
• For glossy, thick sauce, simmer after adding cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce visibly clings to a spoon.
• If preparing ahead, store sauce and fried chicken separately—combine and reheat just before serving to keep the coating crispy.

Follow these tips, and each bite of Generel Tso’s Chicken will rival your favorite restaurant version—if not surpass it!

Storage Instructions

Generel Tso’s Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but you can absolutely save leftovers for later! Let any extra chicken cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To reheat, spread chicken pieces on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F/190°C oven for about 10 minutes, or until hot and crispy. For best results, store sauce and fried chicken separately and combine just before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it may soften the crisp coating.

Freezing isn’t ideal, as the breading can become soggy after thawing, but if needed, freeze cooked chicken and sauce separately for up to a month.

General Information

Generel Tso’s Chicken, sometimes spelled General Tso’s Chicken, is a beloved dish born in Chinese-American kitchens. Despite its namesake, General Tso Tsung-t’ang, a 19th-century Qing dynasty statesman, it’s unlikely he ever tasted the now-famous sweet-spicy chicken fare. The dish was popularized in New York City during the 1970s and quickly swept across North America, becoming synonymous with Chinese takeout.

It’s recognized for deeply savory, crispy chicken tossed in a glossy, flavorful sauce. While traditional versions lean on chili heat, many American versions balance sweetness and mild heat, making Generel Tso’s Chicken a family favorite for all palates.

Growing in popularity, this dish is now featured globally, with home cooks and chefs alike adding unique spins. Making it at home allows for endless customization and a fresher, less oily final result compared to many restaurant versions.

FAQs

Can I make Generel Tso’s Chicken gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use tamari or certified gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce, and substitute the flour in your breading with an equal amount of rice flour, potato starch, or just stick to 100% cornstarch.

How do I make this dish less spicy?

Simply omit the dried red chilis or reduce their number, and your Generel Tso’s Chicken will be mild while still packed with flavor. Add chili on the side for heat lovers.

Can I bake instead of fry the chicken?

Yes! For a lighter version, arrange breaded chicken pieces on a baking rack set over a sheet pan. Spray lightly with oil and bake at 425°F/220°C until crispy (about 20-25 minutes), flipping halfway through.

What’s the best way to meal prep Generel Tso’s Chicken?

Prepare the sauce and fry the chicken in advance. Store both separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to eat, heat sauce in a pan, add chicken to crisp up, then toss together and serve immediately.

Can I use other proteins?

Definitely. Try the same method with cubed pork tenderloin, firm tofu, or even shrimp for a tasty twist that keeps with the theme.

How do I make the sauce less sweet?

Reduce the sugar by a tablespoon or substitute with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar alternative. Add more vinegar or a little extra soy sauce for added tang.

Conclusion

Generel Tso’s Chicken is the ultimate expression of the takeout experience: crispy chicken, tangy and sweet sauce, and just enough spice. Making it at home not only ensures fresher, healthier results, but also gives you the freedom to customize every bite. Whether for a weekend dinner or a weeknight treat, this Generel Tso’s Chicken will earn a regular spot on your culinary rotation. Try it once—and you may never look at takeout the same way again!

Nutritional Information

Homemade Generel Tso’s Chicken is not only tastier, but it can also be significantly more wholesome than its takeout counterpart. A typical serving (about 1 cup, with sauce) contains approximately:

• Calories: 430
• Protein: 25g
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Sugars: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 950mg

Nutritional values can vary based on the type of oil, exact measurements of sugar and soy sauce, and portions served. By using homemade broth, low-sodium soy, or less sugar, you can adjust to suit your dietary needs. For gluten-free options, stick to tamari and cornstarch-based breading. Serve with steamed veggies or cauliflower rice for a lighter meal.

Enjoy your journey to the perfect Generel Tso’s Chicken—from your kitchen to your table, restaurant-level flavor is now just a recipe away!

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