There's nothing quite like the irresistible combination of crispy chicken tossed in a bold, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce. General Tso’s Chicken is a classic Chinese-American dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your table.

The first time I made General Tso’s Chicken, I couldn’t believe how simple it was to recreate that signature takeout flavor. It quickly became a family favorite, satisfying both picky eaters and spice lovers alike. Ready to bring this iconic dish to your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This General Tso’s Chicken

Get ready to fall head over heels for this delicious homemade version of General Tso’s Chicken. It's everything you crave from takeout – crispy, saucy, and perfectly balanced – without the delivery fee.

First, it’s surprisingly easy to make. With a few pantry staples and 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up a meal that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant.

Second, it’s customizable. Adjust the spice level to your liking, swap out ingredients to suit your dietary needs, or add veggies for an extra nutritious punch.

Lastly, it’s perfect for meal prep. The sauce reheats beautifully, making it a great option for lunch leftovers or make-ahead dinners.

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe has you covered.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its balance of flavors and textures. Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make it shine.

Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for maximum juiciness and flavor. You can use chicken breasts if you prefer, but thighs hold up better during frying.
Cornstarch: This is the key to achieving that light, crispy coating. It also thickens the sauce for that glossy, sticky finish.
Soy Sauce: Both regular and low-sodium soy sauce work, but I suggest using low-sodium if you're watching your salt intake.
Rice Vinegar: Adds the perfect tang to the sauce, balancing out the sweetness. If you don’t have rice vinegar, white vinegar works in a pinch.
Hoison Sauce: Brings a rich, savory depth to the sauce. It’s a must for authentic flavor!
Dried Red Chili Peppers: These provide the signature heat. Feel free to adjust the quantity depending on your spice tolerance.
Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger create an aromatic base for the sauce, adding warmth and complexity.

Equipment: A deep skillet or wok is ideal for frying, and a wire rack helps keep the chicken crispy after cooking.

How To Make General Tso’s Chicken

Making General Tso’s Chicken at home is much simpler than you might think. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a foolproof dish every time.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Cut your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, aiming for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Toss the pieces in a mixture of cornstarch and a pinch of salt until they’re fully coated.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F), fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and a splash of water. In the same pan, sauté garlic, ginger, and dried red chilies until fragrant. Pour in the sauce mixture and let it simmer until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Return the crispy chicken to the pan, tossing it in the sauce until every piece is coated. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a restaurant-style finish. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

The whole process takes just about 30 minutes, and the result is nothing short of magical!

Storage Options

General Tso’s Chicken tastes best fresh, but leftovers are just as delicious.

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, place the chicken and sauce in separate freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes to restore its crispiness. Heat the sauce separately in a pan over low heat, then toss them together before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of General Tso’s Chicken makes it a great canvas for creativity. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Vegetarian Version: Swap out the chicken for crispy tofu or cauliflower. Simply coat and fry them the same way as the chicken.
Add Veggies: Stir-fry broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas before adding the sauce for a colorful, nutrient-packed dish.
Lower Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional white rice.
Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use tamari instead of soy sauce, and double-check that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
Extra Spicy: Add a dash of Sriracha or chili paste to the sauce for an extra kick.

Experimenting with this recipe is part of the fun. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!

General Tso’s Chicken is more than just a takeout staple – it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. With its crispy chicken, bold sauce, and endless versatility, this recipe is guaranteed to please every time. Happy cooking!