The Best Crispy General Tso's Chicken Recipe

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Crispy General Tsos Chicken has become a beloved dish in many households due to its irresistible combination of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors. This recipe delivers tender, crispy chicken pieces coated in a flavorful sauce that rivals any takeout option. Whether you are enjoying a family dinner or hosting friends, this homemade version is sure to impress. Let’s dive into this delicious journey of flavors and learn how to make the best crispy General Tso’s Chicken!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy General Tsos Chicken

This Crispy General Tsos Chicken recipe is not just about great taste; it provides numerous benefits that make it a favorite. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to prepare at home, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight meal. Secondly, you can control the spice level, allowing you to customize the heat to your liking—perfect for those who enjoy a spicy General Tso’s Chicken. Additionally, this dish is a healthier alternative to takeout, which often contains excessive sugars and preservatives. Lastly, it pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, creating a family-friendly meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients for Crispy General Tsos Chicken

Gather these items:

3 tablespoons light soy sauce
2 tablespoons sambal oelek
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons sriracha
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
3/4 cup chicken stock or broth
1 1/2 pounds chicken tenderloins, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/2 cup self-rising flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 cup filtered water
2 cups peanut oil, for frying
3 tablespoons peanut oil, for sauce
2 teaspoons grated ginger
3 cloves garlic, minced or grated
1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
6-7 whole dried Sichuan chili peppers (optional)
Jasmine rice
Sliced green onions and/or whole dried chilies for garnish

How to Make Crispy General Tsos Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together light soy sauce, sambal oelek, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sriracha, toasted sesame oil, cornstarch, and chicken stock until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Combine self-rising flour, cornstarch, and filtered water in a mixing bowl to create a thin batter. Stir until fully combined and smooth.
Step 3: Dip the chicken pieces into the batter, ensuring each piece is evenly coated to achieve maximum crispiness when fried.
Step 4: In a deep pan or wok, heat 2 cups of peanut oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) or the oil shimmers but does not smoke.
Step 5: Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Do not overcrowd the pan. Use a slotted spoon to remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 6: In a separate large skillet or wok, heat 3 tablespoons of peanut oil over medium heat. Add grated ginger, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and dried Sichuan chili peppers if using. Sauté briefly until fragrant but not burnt, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Step 7: Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the skillet with aromatics. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 8: Add the fried chicken pieces to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly with the sauce.
Step 9: Plate the sauced chicken over cooked Jasmine rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and additional whole dried chilies if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Crispy General Tsos Chicken

Keep these in mind:

This recipe is suitable for four servings.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
For an even crispier texture, double fry the chicken pieces.
Using a wok for frying can yield better results due to its shape.

Best Ways to Serve Crispy General Tsos Chicken

Here are some serving suggestions:

Pair it with steamed broccoli for a nutritious side.
Serve it over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice for a complete meal.
Consider adding some spring rolls for a delightful appetizer.

How to Store and Reheat Crispy General Tsos Chicken

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, use an oven to retain crispiness, ideally at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This dish is also great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade General Tso’s Chicken throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy General Tsos Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Crispy General Tsos Chicken?

The secret lies in the batter and frying technique. A blend of self-rising flour and cornstarch creates a light, crispy texture. Frying at the right temperature ensures the chicken cooks quickly without absorbing too much oil, resulting in a crunchy General Tso’s Chicken that is simply mouthwatering.

Can I make Crispy General Tsos Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately in advance. Just fry the chicken right before serving for optimal crispiness. This makes it ideal for family-friendly meals where you can have everything prepped ahead of time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crispy General Tsos Chicken?

Avoid overcrowding the frying pan, as this can lead to uneven cooking and soggy chicken. Additionally, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve that golden brown color. These simple tips will help you create the best General Tso’s Chicken near you.

Variations of Crispy General Tsos Chicken You Can Try

Here are some creative twists:

For a healthier option, try using air frying instead of deep frying.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for a colorful presentation.
Make it gluten-free by substituting the soy sauce with tamari and using gluten-free flour.

For more delicious recipes, check out Gingerbread Tiramisu or Cranberry Custard Pie. If you’re looking for a great side dish, consider Honey Roasted Root Vegetables to complement your meal.