General Tso’s Chicken

Welcome to SousVideRecipe! I’m Jasmine, a home cook who fell in love with sous vide the moment I realized it could turn everyday meals into restaurant-quality dishes with perfect consistency. My goal is to make sous vide cooking approachable and fun for real home kitchens—no complicated steps, just flavorful, reliable recipes anyone can master. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, I’m here to inspire you to enjoy cooking and create unforgettable meals one perfectly cooked bite at a time.

General Tso’s Chicken holds a special place in my kitchen. This dish transforms humble chicken thighs into a crowd-pleaser that lights up the dinner table. I remember the first time I tried it at a local restaurant—the crispiness of the chicken paired with a sweet and tangy sauce stole my heart. Since then, I welcomed this recipe into my home, perfecting it over time to achieve that same restaurant-quality flavor.

The vibrant flavors of General Tso’s Chicken make it a favorite in many households. The combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce ensures every bite is bursting with taste. The subtle heat from the red pepper flakes adds a wonderful kick that makes this dish truly memorable. Preparing this recipe at home allows me to enjoy those rich flavors while tailoring the heat to my preference.

Join me on this culinary adventure as we dive deep into crafting the perfect General Tso’s Chicken. Let’s explore the fundamentals, techniques, and tips for preparing this irresistible dish right in your kitchen.

General Tso’s Chicken: The Fundamentals

Fundamentals

Before diving into the delicious realm of General Tso’s Chicken, it’s crucial to understand its core components. This dish balances sweetness, tanginess, and a hint of spice, creating a delightfully complex flavor profile. While it might seem like a classic Asian dish, General Tso’s Chicken is a beloved American creation, showcasing how culinary traditions can blend and evolve.

The fundamental ingredient in this recipe is chicken thighs. They remain juicy and flavorful, especially when paired with the dish’s vibrant sauce. The cornstarch coating not only adds texture but also helps seal in that delicious moisture as you fry the chicken to a perfect golden brown.

Preparation/Setup

Setting up for General Tso’s Chicken involves a few simple yet essential steps. Start by trimming and cutting the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces. This allows for quick cooking and ensures that each bite holds onto the spectacular sauce. Next, gather all your ingredients—cooking becomes a breeze when everything’s within arm’s reach.

Creating a mise en place with your sauces and garnishes will simplify the cooking process. Prepare a bowl for the sauce mixture and another for the cornstarch. Having everything organized sets the stage for an efficient and enjoyable cooking experience, allowing you to focus on the joy of creating.

Ingredients

For this delectable General Tso’s Chicken, ensure you have the following ingredients ready:

• 2 lb chicken thighs (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1/2 cup corn starch
• 1/4 cup extra light olive oil (for frying, plus more as needed)
• 2 tbsp minced ginger
• 3 cloves garlic (or 1 tbsp grated or finely minced)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (or adjusted to taste)
• 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 5 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
• 3 tbsp rice vinegar (or more for taste)
• 1 1/2 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 4 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tbsp corn starch

Directions

Begin by tossing the chicken pieces in batches with cornstarch, ensuring to tap off any excess. Set aside on a platter to keep them ready for frying. In another bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, granulated sugar, cold water, and corn starch. Whisk until the mixture looks smooth and well-combined.

Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil liberally for frying. Cook the chicken in batches, allowing each piece to brown beautifully—this will take about 5-7 minutes. When golden brown, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

In the same skillet, sauté the garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes until fragrant. Pour in your sauce mixture, bringing it to a simmer for about one minute. Adjust the seasoning here, tasting and enhancing to your preference. Return the crispy chicken to the pan, tossing it to coat thoroughly in the sauce. Serve warm and garnish with sesame seeds for that finishing touch.

Perfecting General Tso’s Chicken: Technique

Technique

Mastering General Tso’s Chicken requires understanding both cooking technique and flavor balance. The key technique lies in the frying method; ensure that your oil is at the right temperature. This step is crucial in achieving a crispy, golden crust while keeping the chicken tender and juicy on the inside.

Additionally, frying in batches prevents overcrowding in the skillet. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than frying, resulting in less favorable texture and flavor. Allowing space between each piece gives the chicken room to crisp up and brown nicely.

Tips/Tricks

To achieve the best results with this recipe, keep these tips in mind:

1. Use chicken thighs: Their higher fat content provides a juicy, flavorful end product.

2. Prep your ingredients ahead of time: This practice not only speeds up the cooking process but also helps maintain organization.

3. Adjust the heat: Modify the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preference for spice. More flakes lead to a heartier kick, which some may adore.

4. Try garnishing: Sesame seeds not only enhance presentation but also add a subtle nutty flavor.

5. Don’t skip the cornstarch coating: This step is vital for that desirable crunch.

Approaching each step with care will ensure that every batch of General Tso’s Chicken impresses your family or guests.

Making General Tso’s Chicken: Perfecting Results

Perfecting Results

Achieving perfection in General Tso’s Chicken involves patience and attention to detail. The cornstarch coating creates that unforgettable crunch that makes this dish stand out. Do not rush the frying process. Allow each piece to get enough heat and time to develop that beautiful golden-brown exterior.

Another way to perfect your dish is through the balance of flavors in the sauce. Taste as you go and make adjustments to the ingredients. More sugar adds sweetness; additional soy sauce or vinegar can deepen that savory or tangy essence.

Troubleshooting/Variations

While preparing General Tso’s Chicken, you may encounter some challenges. If the coating does not come out crispy, check the oil temperature. Too cool oil leads to soggy results. Conversely, if the oil is too hot, the coating may burn before the chicken cooks through. Aim for medium heat to strike the perfect balance.

For variations, consider experimenting with vegetables. Adding broccoli or bell peppers can introduce more textures and flavors, creating a colorful and nutritious meal.

If you prefer a healthier twist, try baking the chicken instead of frying. While it may change the texture slightly, a light mist of oil and a hot oven can still yield delicious results.

Serving General Tso’s Chicken: Presentation and Storage

Serving/Presentation

Serving General Tso’s Chicken can elevate the dining experience. Present the dish over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Drizzling extra sauce over the top adds a touch of vibrancy to your plate.

Garnish with the optional sesame seeds for added visual appeal. They provide a lovely crunch that complements the chicken beautifully. Serve your dish hot, allowing diners to savor the delightful aroma and flavor together.

Pairings/Storage

General Tso’s Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Steamed rice, fried rice, or a refreshing cucumber salad can balance the richness of the dish. Additionally, consider serving it with Asian-style noodles for a delightful twist.

When it comes to storage, place leftovers in an airtight container. This dish can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to help rehydrate the sauce.

With these tips in mind, the journey of enjoying General Tso’s Chicken can be as satisfying as the meal itself.

In this delightful exploration of General Tso’s Chicken, the blend of flavors and techniques brings restaurant-quality cuisine directly to your table. Embrace the journey and enjoy the process of creating a beloved dish, right in the comfort of your kitchen.

Print