Chicken

General Tso’s Chicken

Name: General Tso’s Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1 cup cornstarch; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; Vegetable oil; ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce; ¼ cup rice vinegar; ⅓ cup sugar; 1 tbsp hoisin sauce; 2 tbsp ketchup; 2 garlic cloves; 1 tsp fresh ginger; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 ½ 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water; 1 tsp 1–2 dried red chili flakes; Sliced green onions; Toasted sesame seeds

September 4, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 45 mins Difficulty: Beginner

Jump To Recipe Print Recipe

Introduction

General Tso’s Chicken is a Chinese-American classic that has become a favorite in restaurants and takeout spots across the world. Known for its crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce, this dish delivers bold flavors and a perfect crunch in every bite. Though its origins are debated, it is believed to have been created by Chinese chefs in the U.S. who adapted traditional flavors for American palates.

This recipe recreates that restaurant-style experience at home with fresh ingredients, balanced flavors, and just the right amount of heat.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love General Tso’s Chicken because it’s a perfect balance of contrasts—crispy yet saucy, sweet yet savory, spicy yet comforting. The sauce is deeply flavorful, combining soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and just enough sugar to balance it all.

It’s also a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make at home. The aroma of garlic, ginger, and chilies sizzling in the wok is absolutely irresistible. Whether served over steamed rice or with stir-fried veggies, it’s a dish that makes any dinner feel special.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

A true takeout classic that you can master at home.
Crispy fried chicken coated in a bold, glossy sauce.
Perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining.
Customizable heat level for spice lovers or mild eaters.
A dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~450 per serving (without rice)

Cuisine and Course

Cuisine: Chinese-American
Course: Main Dish

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into bite-sized chunks)
1 cup cornstarch
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs (beaten)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
¼ cup rice vinegar
⅓ cup sugar (or honey)
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
2 tbsp ketchup (for color and sweetness)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
1 tsp sesame oil
1 ½ tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
1–2 tsp dried red chili flakes (adjust to taste)

For Garnish:

Sliced green onions
Toasted sesame seeds

Simple Cooking Directions

Coat chicken in flour/cornstarch mixture, dip in beaten egg, then dredge again for crispiness.
Fry chicken in hot oil until golden brown.
Make sauce by simmering soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, hoisin, ketchup, garlic, and ginger.
Add cornstarch slurry to thicken.
Toss chicken in the sauce until fully coated.
Garnish and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
In one bowl, beat eggs. In another, mix cornstarch and flour.
Coat chicken in egg, then dredge in flour-cornstarch mix.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a deep wok or skillet to 350°F (175°C).
Fry chicken in small batches until golden brown and crispy (about 5 minutes).
Drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a saucepan or wok, combine soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, hoisin, ketchup, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and chili flakes.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Stir in cornstarch slurry until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add fried chicken to the wok with the sauce.
Toss until evenly coated.
Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

How to Serve

Serve over steamed jasmine rice or fried rice.
Pair with stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas.
Serve in a large platter for sharing at family-style meals.

Additional Recipe Tips

For extra crispy chicken, double fry.
Adjust sweetness by reducing sugar or using honey for a deeper flavor.
Add whole dried chilies for a more authentic restaurant-style presentation.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying.

Variations

General Tso’s Cauliflower: Swap chicken with cauliflower florets.
Spicy General Tso’s: Add more chili flakes or a splash of sriracha.
Healthier Version: Bake or air fry chicken instead of deep-frying.
Tangy Twist: Add a splash of orange juice for extra brightness.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
Freezing: Store fried chicken (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Reheat and toss with freshly made sauce before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

Wok or deep frying pan
Saucepan
Mixing bowls
Tongs or slotted spoon
Paper towels (for draining)

Conclusion

General Tso’s Chicken is a true takeout favorite that combines crispy chicken with a bold, savory-sweet-spicy sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or anytime you’re craving comfort food with big flavor. Making it at home gives you complete control over sweetness and spice, ensuring it’s just the way you like it. Once you try this homemade version, you may never order it out again!

Print Recipe