How to Make General Tso’s Chicken Stir-Fry: A Flavorful Journey to Your Kitchen

General Tso’s chicken, a dish that needs no introduction! This iconic Chinese-American stir-fry, with its crispy chicken coated in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce, has become a beloved classic worldwide. Today, we’ll embark on a culinary adventure to recreate this restaurant-favorite right in your own kitchen. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your newfound stir-fry skills!

Unlocking the Secrets of General Tso’s Chicken

This recipe is our simplified version of the classic, perfect for weeknight dinners or satisfying your weekend cravings. We’ll guide you through each step, ensuring a flavorful and unforgettable General Tso’s chicken experience.

Gathering Your Culinary Arsenal: Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp minced ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 red chili peppers, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)

For the Stir-Fry:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
• Sliced green onions, for garnish

Essential Tools for Stir-Fry Success

• Two large bowls
• Whisk
• Large skillet or wok
• Small saucepan

General Tso's chicken ingredients

Step-by-Step Guide to Stir-Fry Mastery

Preparing the Chicken:

1. In a bowl, combine the cubed chicken with salt and pepper.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the egg, cornstarch, and flour until a smooth batter forms.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated.

Creating the Flavorful Sauce:

1. In the small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, honey, cornstarch, and chicken broth.
2. Whisk well to ensure all ingredients are combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
4. Remove from heat and set aside.

The Art of Stir-Frying:

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in the large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the coated chicken pieces, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if needed.
3. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Bringing It All Together:

1. Heat the remaining vegetable oil in the skillet.
2. Add the minced ginger and garlic, and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped red chili peppers and sauté for another minute.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
6. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring constantly to coat everything evenly.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.

Plating and Garnishing:

1. Transfer your General Tso’s chicken to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.

General Tso's chicken plating

Tips and Tricks for Stir-Fry Perfection

• “For extra crispy chicken, consider double-frying. Fry the chicken once, let it rest, and then fry it again right before serving. This technique creates a phenomenal crunch.” – Chef Lisa, Culinary Expert
• If you prefer a milder version, simply reduce or omit the red chili peppers.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become dry. It should be cooked through but still juicy.
• Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on your preference. Broccoli, carrots, and snap peas are excellent additions.

Conclusion

Congratulations on mastering the art of General Tso’s chicken stir-fry! With its irresistible blend of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Now it’s time to put your newfound skills to the test and impress everyone with your culinary prowess. Share your creations and stir-fry adventures with us in the comments below! Don’t forget to explore our website for more delicious and easy-to-follow stir-fry recipes.