Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? Crispy General Tso’s Chicken packs a punch with irresistible flavors and crunchy texture. I’ll guide you through making this beloved dish, from perfecting the coating to masterfully frying the chicken. Plus, I’ll share tips for higher crispiness and alternative cooking methods. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a meal that’s not just delicious but also fun to make! Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a savory and aromatic sauce that perfectly complements the crispy chicken.
- Crispy Texture: The double coating of cornstarch and flour ensures that each piece of chicken is extra crispy, providing a delightful crunch with every bite.
- Customizable Spice Level: With the option to adjust the number of dried red chilies, you can easily tailor the heat to suit your taste preferences.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and quick, making it a perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Crispy General Tso’s Chicken
To make this dish, you need:
– 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– ½ cup cornstarch
– ½ cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon ginger powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– Oil for frying
These ingredients are key for the perfect texture and flavor. The cornstarch and flour coating gives the chicken that crispy crunch. The eggs and sesame oil help the coating stick well.
Sauce Ingredients
For the sauce, gather these items:
– ¼ cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
– 2-3 dried red chilies, crushed (adjust for spice level)
Each ingredient in the sauce adds depth. The soy sauce brings umami, while the sugar balances the flavors with sweetness. The vinegar adds a nice tang, and the chilies give it just the right kick.
Optional Garnishes
To finish your dish, consider these garnishes:
– 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped
These green onions add color and a fresh taste. They make the dish look appealing and add a nice crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
First, gather your chicken breasts. Cut them into small, bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook quickly and evenly. In a bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, baking powder, garlic powder, ginger powder, and salt. This blend adds a nice flavor to the chicken. In another bowl, beat the eggs and add sesame oil. This mixture will help the coating stick.
Coating Process
Now, it’s time to coat the chicken. Start by dipping each piece into the egg mixture. Make sure every piece is covered well. Next, roll the chicken in the flour mixture. This double coating is key for that famous crispy texture. Shake off any excess flour. This helps prevent clumping when frying.
Frying and Draining
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok. You want about two inches of oil for frying. Get the oil hot over medium-high heat. This is crucial for crispy chicken. Fry the chicken in small batches. Cook them for about four to five minutes each until they turn golden brown. Once cooked, remove them and let them drain on paper towels. This step keeps the chicken crispy by absorbing extra oil.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Extra Crispiness
To make your General Tso’s chicken super crispy, use a double coating. First, dip the chicken pieces in beaten eggs. Then, coat them well with a mix of cornstarch and flour. The cornstarch helps create that crunchy crust we all love. Also, make sure your oil is hot before frying. This way, the chicken cooks faster and stays crispy. Fry in small batches to avoid crowding. Crowding the pan leads to steaming, not frying.
Best Oil for Frying
The best oil for frying is one with a high smoke point. I recommend using vegetable oil or peanut oil. These oils handle heat well and let the chicken fry evenly. Avoid olive oil, as it burns easily. You want your chicken to cook without any off-flavors from the oil. Make sure you use enough oil to cover the chicken pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and get that golden color.
Adjusting Spice Levels
If you like your dish spicy, add more dried red chilies. Start with two to three, and taste the sauce. You can always add more if you want more heat. If you prefer it mild, cut back on the chilies. The garlic and ginger add great flavor without too much heat. Don’t forget, the sauce can be adjusted as you cook. Taste it to get the right balance of sweet, salty, and spicy.
Pro Tips
- Double Coat for Extra Crispiness: For an unbeatable crunch, ensure that each piece of chicken is coated twice in the flour mixture after dipping it in the egg wash.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at a consistent temperature (350°F to 375°F) to ensure even cooking and prevent greasy chicken.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Modify the number of dried red chilies according to your heat preference; remember, you can always add more spice, but you can’t take it away!
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of chopped green onions not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of your dish, making it more appetizing.
Variations
Healthier Alternatives
If you want a lighter version of General Tso’s chicken, you have options. You can use skinless chicken breasts. This cuts down on fat while keeping the meat juicy. Instead of frying, you can bake the chicken. Use a hot oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes. You will still get some crispiness if you coat it well. For the sauce, you can reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute. This makes it a bit healthier without losing flavor.
Vegetarian or Vegan Substitutes
If you want a vegetarian or vegan dish, try tofu or tempeh. Firm tofu works best for this recipe. Press it to remove the water, then cut it into cubes. Coat it just like chicken for that crispy texture. For the sauce, keep the soy sauce and rice vinegar. Use maple syrup instead of sugar for sweetness. This gives a similar taste without any meat. Serve it over rice or noodles for a filling meal.
Different Cooking Methods
You can prepare General Tso’s chicken in several ways. The classic method is frying, which gives that nice crunch. If you want a healthier route, try air frying. Coat the chicken, then place it in the air fryer. Cook at 375°F for about 15 minutes. Flip halfway for even crispiness. Another option is stir-frying. Use a bit of oil in a hot pan, and cook the chicken quickly. This keeps it tender and juicy. Each method offers a unique twist on this tasty dish.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Crispy General Tso’s Chicken, place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure the chicken is cool before sealing. This helps keep it crispy longer.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat the chicken, use an oven or air fryer for best results. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until hot and crispy. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the chicken soggy.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze the chicken, but it may lose some crispiness. Place the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
FAQs
How to make Crispy General Tso’s Chicken from scratch?
To make this dish, start with fresh chicken breast. Cut it into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix cornstarch, all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, ginger powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat two eggs and add sesame oil. Dip chicken in the egg mix, then coat it with the flour mix. Heat oil in a deep skillet. Fry the chicken in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. For the sauce, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, hoisin sauce, minced garlic, and ginger in a saucepan. Simmer this mix and thicken it with cornstarch mixed with water. Toss the fried chicken in the sauce, and you’re ready to serve!
What is the history of General Tso’s Chicken?
General Tso’s Chicken has roots in Chinese cuisine but became popular in America. It is named after General Tso Tsung-t’ang, a 19th-century Chinese general. The dish first appeared in the U.S. in the 1970s. It is known for its unique blend of sweet and spicy flavors. Restaurants adapted it to fit American tastes, making it a favorite for many. Today, it stands as a symbol of Chinese-American food culture.
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time. Prepare it and store it in the fridge. Just remember to reheat it before you mix it with the chicken. This saves time when you are ready to cook. It also allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
What do I serve with General Tso’s Chicken?
General Tso’s Chicken pairs well with steamed rice or fried rice. You can also serve it with stir-fried vegetables for a colorful plate. For a crunch, try some crispy spring rolls or egg rolls on the side. A light salad can balance the meal too. Enjoy your delicious feast!
To sum up, this guide covers everything you need for Crispy General Tso’s Chicken. You learned about key ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and storage tips. Plus, I shared helpful tricks to make your dish extra crispy.
Remember, you can make variations to fit your taste. Enjoy the cooking process, and don’t be afraid to try new ideas. With these tips, you will serve a dish that impresses everyone. Happy cookin
