General Tsos Chicken

Story behind the dish

Few dishes evoke the vibrant flavors and comforting warmth of Chinese takeout like General Tso’s Chicken. Its crispy exterior, tender chicken, and the irresistible sweet-spicy sauce make it a universally loved classic. Behind each bite, there's a story of bold flavors blending to create a dish that’s both nostalgic and exciting, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Making this dish at home allows you to indulge in that satisfying crunch and balanced sauce, all crafted with fresh ingredients. The aroma of garlic, ginger, and sesame oil filling your kitchen transforms a simple meal into a culinary celebration. Get ready to impress with your homemade version of this beloved dish!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs chicken breast (24 oz)
• 3/4 cup plain flour (6 oz)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (0.5 oz)
• 1 tbsp baking powder (0.5 oz)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp onion salt
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 3/4 cup water (6 fl oz)
• 1/2 cup chicken stock (4 fl oz)
• 1/4 cup duck sauce (2 fl oz)
• 3 tbsp soy sauce (0.75 fl oz)
• 2 tbsp honey (1 oz)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar (0.5 fl oz)
• 2 tbsp sesame seed oil (1 oz)
• 1/2 tbsp gochujang (0.25 oz)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 chopped spring onions
• 1 tsp ground ginger

Note: The recipe originally referenced sherry cooking wine, ketchup, hoisin sauce, and hot pepper, which I've omitted for clarity but can be added for extra flavor.

Step-by-step

1. Prepare the sauce:
   In a bowl, combine 2 cups (16 fl oz) water, 2 tablespoons (1 fl oz) soy sauce, 2 tablespoons (1 fl oz) rice vinegar, duck sauce, honey, sesame seed oil, gochujang, minced garlic, chopped spring onions, ground ginger, and any additional seasonings. Mix well and set aside.

2. Marinate the chicken:
   Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, season with a pinch of salt and white pepper, then add the egg whites and 3 tablespoons (1.5 oz) cornstarch. Toss until well coated. Let sit briefly.

3. Deep fry the chicken:
   Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Gently loosen the pieces to prevent sticking. Remove and drain on paper towels.

4. Stir-fry and glaze:
   Pour the prepared sauce into a wok or large skillet and bring to a boil. Add in broccoli or other vegetables if desired, and cook until tender. To thicken the sauce, whisk 2 tablespoons (1 oz) of cornstarch with 4 tablespoons (2 fl oz) water, then slowly pour into the stir-fry, stirring constantly until it reaches your preferred consistency.

5. Combine and serve:
   Add the crispy chicken back into the wok, stir well to coat with the sauce, and cook for another minute. Serve hot over steamed rice or your favorite side.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For an extra crispy exterior, double coat the chicken in the cornstarch mixture before frying.
• Garnish with additional chopped spring onions and toasted sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.

Closing thoughts

Homemade General Tso’s Chicken offers the perfect blend of crunch, spice, and sweetness that make this dish a standout at any dinner table. It’s a delightful way to bring authentic flavors into your own kitchen, and with each bite, you'll taste the effort and love poured into crafting this iconic dish. Enjoy cooking and indulging in this crowd-pleaser!