If you’ve ever craved that perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory in your takeout, then this Easy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe is going to become your new favorite. It captures all those bold flavors with a simple stovetop method that anyone can master at home. Crispy, tender bites of chicken are drenched in a luscious, tangy sauce that’s just the right amount of sticky and satisfying—plus, it’s ready in just about 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing friends, this dish promises restaurant-quality deliciousness without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role in delivering excellent flavor and texture, yet each one is simple and easy to find. The result is a dish that’s as straightforward to make as it is to enjoy.
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Perfectly tender and juicy, these give the dish its hearty protein base.
- ½ cup cornstarch: Coats the chicken to create that irresistible crispy crust when cooked.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Provides a high-heat cooking medium to crisp up the chicken without burning.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and savory punch to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated: Brings a warm, zesty brightness that complements the sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a gentle kick of heat that balances the sugary sauce beautifully.
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce: The salty umami backbone of the dish, ensuring rich flavor without overpowering.
- ¼ cup hoisin sauce: Introduces a sweet and tangy complexity that makes the sauce unforgettable.
- ¼ cup rice vinegar: Adds delicate acidity to counterbalance the sweetness and keep the sauce bright.
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar: Sweetens the dish naturally while contributing to that sticky glaze.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry): Thickens the sauce perfectly, coating each piece of chicken.
- 2 green onions, sliced: For a fresh, peppery crunch as a final touch.
- Cooked white rice: The ideal fluffy base that soaks up all the luscious sauce.
How to Make Easy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Coat the Chicken
Start by tossing your chicken pieces with the cornstarch in a large bowl until every bite is evenly coated. This step is key to achieving that signature crispiness that makes General Tso’s Chicken so irresistible. Don’t skip it or the chicken won’t get that perfect crunchy texture.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the coated chicken in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan so each piece cooks evenly. Fry for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside to rest while you whip up the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In that same skillet, toss in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this quick step wakes up the flavors and releases their incredible aromas, setting the stage for that perfect sauce.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Now, pour in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. This blend of salty, sweet, and tangy ingredients is what transforms the dish from simple chicken to a true crowd-pleaser.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce and Toss Chicken
Whisk in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Then, return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss it thoroughly to coat every tender, crispy piece in the luscious sauce. Give it an extra minute to heat through and let those flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Easy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches make all the difference, and a generous sprinkle of sliced green onions adds both fresh color and a bright, slightly pungent flavor contrast to the rich sauce. If you like, a few toasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced fresh chili can also bring an extra layer of texture and head-turning appeal.
Side Dishes
Classic servings like fluffy, steamed white rice soak up every bit of that incredible sauce, creating the ultimate comfort food experience. For a lighter balance, steamed broccoli, snap peas, or stir-fried bok choy are wonderful sides that add crunch and vibrant greens to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling a little adventurous, serve the Easy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe over fried rice or even crispy noodles for a fun twist. Alternatively, try turning it into a wrap by loading the saucy chicken and sliced cucumbers into warm lettuce leaves—it’s a delicious way to keep things fresh and light!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover General Tso’s Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, making it a perfect meal for busy evenings or quick lunch options loaded with flavor.
Freezing
This chicken freezes well if you want to plan ahead. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. Frozen leftovers maintain great taste and texture for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm everything evenly and preserve crispiness. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between, until steaming hot. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast will work well if you prefer a leaner cut, but it’s best to be careful not to overcook it since it’s leaner and can dry out faster than thighs. Adjust cooking times accordingly and enjoy all the same fantastic flavors.
How spicy is this Easy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe?
The heat level is mild by default, but you can easily adjust it by increasing or omitting the red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference. This flexibility means everyone can enjoy it just how they like it!
Is it necessary to use hoisin sauce?
Hoisin sauce brings its unique sweet and tangy depth, which really defines the authentic taste of this dish. Substituting it might change the flavor profile quite a bit, so it’s recommended if you want to capture that classic General Tso’s spirit.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap the soy sauce for a tamari or gluten-free soy sauce alternative and check that the hoisin sauce doesn’t contain gluten (there are gluten-free versions available). The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Why does the chicken sometimes get soggy?
Overcrowding the pan or skipping the cornstarch coating can result in soggy chicken. Cooking the chicken in batches and ensuring the oil is hot helps keep the exterior crisp. Also, toss the chicken quickly back into the sauce so it doesn’t sit too long and lose that satisfying crunch.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully comforting about mastering an Easy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe that tastes just like your favorite takeout but made with your own hands. With its perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, plus a satisfying crunch, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your dinner table again and again. So go ahead—give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire!
Print
Easy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese-American
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
A quick and easy recipe for General Tso’s Chicken featuring crispy chicken thighs coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner served over white rice.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup hoisin sauce
- ¼ cup rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
Garnish and Serving
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions
- Coat the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with ½ cup cornstarch until evenly coated, ensuring each piece has a thin, even layer of cornstarch to help create a crispy exterior when cooked.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until each piece is golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes if using. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Prepare the Sauce: Stir in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Thicken the Sauce: Add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Toss Chicken in Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss well to coat each piece evenly with the thickened sauce. Cook for an additional minute to warm the chicken through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve immediately over cooked white rice for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, fry the chicken in batches and avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Chicken breast can be substituted if preferred, though thighs remain juicier.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level according to your taste.
