General Tso’s chicken, a staple in American-Chinese cuisine, features crispy deep-fried chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce with a hint of spice. This dish rivals popular options like sesame chicken and orange chicken, offering a unique flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. This recipe simplifies the process, using readily available pantry ingredients to create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Forget complicated techniques and specialty sauces – this version focuses on simplicity and delicious results.
This recipe utilizes a simple breading method, using flour (or cornstarch for a gluten-free option) seasoned with paprika and garlic salt. The chicken is then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. The sauce, a key component of General Tso’s chicken, is made with a blend of sugar, water, white vinegar, salt, soy sauce, and optional red pepper flakes for heat. The combination of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy creates a balanced and flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the crispy chicken.
The magic happens when the fried chicken is combined with the sauce and simmered until it thickens and coats the chicken in a glossy, flavorful glaze. The result is a dish that’s incredibly satisfying and bursting with flavor. This General Tso’s chicken recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a taste of takeout without ever leaving your kitchen. Serve it over steamed rice for a complete and fulfilling meal.
The origins of General Tso’s chicken are fascinating, with the dish named after a Chinese military general, Zuo Zongtang. While the historical connection is loose, the name adds an air of authenticity and intrigue to this beloved dish. Interestingly, the dish goes by various names, including General Tsao’s chicken, General Tao’s chicken, and General T’s chicken.
While General Tso’s chicken shares similarities with sesame chicken, key differences set them apart. General Tso’s chicken boasts a spicier and more vibrant orange hue compared to the savory, brown, and salty sesame chicken. Sesame chicken often features a generous coating of sesame seeds, while General Tso’s chicken typically omits them. Although General Tso’s has a spicy kick, the sweetness balances the heat, making it less intense than some might expect. The level of spice can vary, especially in restaurants, where whole dried chili peppers may be included in the sauce.
To achieve a truly crispy chicken batter, deep-frying is recommended. Ensure the chicken is well-coated in the breading and fry it in ample oil until golden brown. A good breading or batter is essential for creating that satisfying crunch. Some cooks use tempura batter, while others find flour or cornstarch equally effective, especially when coated with a thick sauce. Partially wetting the chicken before dredging it in the breading can help ensure a more even and adherent coating. This recipe offers options for baking or slow-cooking the chicken, catering to different cooking preferences and dietary needs. A gluten-free version can be easily achieved by substituting cornstarch for flour in the breading.
This General Tso’s chicken recipe is incredibly versatile. To enhance the flavors, consider adding fresh ginger or garlic to the sauce. For a complete Chinese-inspired meal, serve the chicken with steamed broccoli, which can be easily prepared by placing a colander of broccoli florets over the simmering chicken and sauce. Other Asian-inspired side dishes, such as stir-fries or lo mein noodles, also complement this dish beautifully. Remember to adjust the sodium level to your preference by using low-sodium soy sauce if needed. If the sauce becomes too salty, a simple trick is to add more sugar to balance the flavors. Finally, for extra tender chicken, consider using chicken thighs or tenderizing chicken breasts with a quick meat tenderizer before cooking.
