General Tso's Chicken is a beloved Chinese-American dish known for its perfect balance of sweet, savory, spicy, and tangy flavors. This recipe offers a homemade version that captures the essence of what makes this dish a favorite in restaurants across America. With crispy, deep-fried chicken pieces coated in a rich, flavorful sauce, it's a satisfying meal that's sure to impress.
Prepare the Sauce/Marinade: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, chili paste, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and chicken stock. Take 2 tablespoons of this mixture to marinate the chicken and set the rest aside. Mix the 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with a little water and add to the sauce mixture for later use.
Marinate the Chicken: Toss the chicken pieces in the marinade and let sit for at least 30 minutes.
Coat the Chicken: Dredge the marinated chicken pieces in cornstarch, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Make the Sauce: In a separate pan, heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes until fragrant. Add the reserved sauce mixture and bring to a simmer until thickened.
Combine: Add the fried chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Notes
For a less spicy version, reduce or omit the chili paste and red pepper flakes.
Chicken breast can be used instead of thighs but may result in a less juicy texture.
To ensure the chicken stays crispy, serve immediately after tossing with the sauce.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated, though the chicken may not be as crispy upon reheating.