Easy General Tso's Chicken

Easy General Tso's Chicken combines tender chicken pieces with a sweet and tangy sauce, delivering that satisfying crunch and balanced flavor. It’s an excellent dish for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet bold. Thanks to the cornstarch coating, the chicken comes out delightfully crispy, making each bite a treat you won’t forget.

This version of Easy General Tso's Chicken fixes the common issue of soggy chicken by using cornstarch to create a crispy exterior that holds up under the sauce. Unlike many recipes that result in a soft mess, the cornstarch provides a light crunch, ensuring your chicken stays delicious and does not get mushy, even after saucing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture — The cornstarch coating ensures each piece of chicken stays crunchy, preventing sogginess even under the sauce.
• Fast and Simple — With only 15 minutes of prep, you can have this on the table in a quick 35 minutes.
• Flexible Ingredients — Use ingredients like soy sauce and hoisin that you might already have on hand, allowing for easy substitutions anytime.
• One-Pan Cooking — Fewer dishes to wash! Everything from frying the chicken to simmering the sauce happens in one skillet.
• Meal Prep Friendly — Leftovers can be saved for up to three days, making it a great choice for meal preppers.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Serves 4

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts — the main protein; thighs can be substituted for a richer flavor.
• 1/2 cup cornstarch — creates the crispy coating; flour won’t provide the same crunch.
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil — used for frying; can be replaced with peanut oil for added flavor.

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup hoisin sauce — gives sweetness and depth; soy sauce can be used, but the taste will differ.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce — adds saltiness; tamari is a gluten-free alternative.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar — balances the acidity; white sugar can work, but you'll miss some richness.
• 2 heaping teaspoons minced garlic — provides a pungent punch; fresh shallots could work in a pinch.
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar — adds acidity; apple cider vinegar can be a substitute but alters flavor slightly.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil — infuses a nutty aroma; avoid skipping this for a depth of flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger — enhances the sauce's warmth; fresh grated ginger is preferable if you have it.

For Serving

• 3 packets ramen noodles — used as a base; any noodle can work, but cooking times will differ.
• sliced green onions — fresh garnish; chopped cilantro can be a nice alternative.
• sesame seeds — adds crunch; omit if nut allergies are a concern.
• more soy sauce — optional for serving; ensure to taste before adding since the dish is already seasoned.

How to Make Easy General Tso's Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Place the cornstarch in a gallon zip-top bag, then add the chicken. Seal and shake to coat each piece thoroughly. The cornstarch coating is essential to achieving that desired crunch. Set aside for a moment as you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, and crushed red pepper (if using). Stir until smooth and set this flavorful mixture aside. The sugar should dissolve completely, creating a thick sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Ramen

Prepare the ramen noodles following the package directions, but discard the seasoning packets. Once cooked, drain them and set aside. This will be a comforting base for the chicken and sauce combination.

Step 4: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Shake off any excess cornstarch from the chicken, then add it to the hot oil in a single layer. Cook the chicken pieces for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This step is crucial for developing a crispy texture, so do not overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Once the chicken is done, remove it and place it on a plate. Lower the heat to medium and add the prepared sauce to the skillet. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the rich aroma filling your kitchen at this stage.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the chicken pieces to the pan and coat them evenly in the thickened sauce. Add the cooked ramen noodles and toss everything together gently, ensuring each bite has a balance of chicken and sauce. If desired, splash in some additional soy sauce for an extra kick.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish your dish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your Easy General Tso's Chicken immediately while it's hot, noting how the chicken remains crispy against the flavorful sauce.

How to Serve Easy General Tso's Chicken

Serving Easy General Tso's Chicken well enhances its flavors and makes your meal visually appealing. This dish shines when presented fresh and at the right temperature. It’s a great choice for a weeknight dinner or gatherings with friends.

Serving Ideas

• Serve hot for best flavor — Let the dish sit for no more than 5 minutes after cooking, then serve immediately while hot. Cooler temperatures may dull the flavor and make the sauce less enjoyable.
• Use a large, shallow platter — Plating the chicken and noodles on a wide dish allows even heat distribution and helps keep the chicken crisp. The sauce will nicely pool at the bottom, making it visually inviting.
• Portion into bowls for easy serving — Divide the Easy General Tso's Chicken into individual bowls, garnishing with sesame seeds and green onions. This works well for a casual family meal or when entertaining guests buffet-style.
• Perfect for casual gatherings — Serve this dish warm during a game night or casual dinner party, allowing guests to enjoy it directly from the pan, giving a laid-back vibe while keeping the chicken crisp.

What to Serve Alongside

1. Steamed broccoli — Adds a crunchy, fresh contrast to the tender chicken while enhancing the meal's color.
2. Cucumber salad — Provides a light, acidic counterbalance to the rich sauce, refreshing the palate between bites.
3. Jasmine rice — Offers a mild, fluffy base that absorbs the sauce, creating a nice texture pairing without overwhelming flavors.
4. Pickled radishes — Contributes a tangy, crunchy bite that complements the savory notes of the chicken and cuts through its richness.
5. Egg rolls — Introduces extra crunch and a savory filling, enhancing the overall meal experience with various textures.

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Tips for the Best Easy General Tso's Chicken

To ensure your Easy General Tso's Chicken turns out perfectly, follow these specific tips. Mastering the little details can elevate your dish from good to great.

• Use a thermometer to check doneness — Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safe to eat and properly cooked through.
• Don't skip the cornstarch coating — Coat the chicken evenly with 1/2 cup of cornstarch before frying. This creates a crispy exterior that prevents the chicken from getting soggy when mixed with the sauce.
• Cook in batches if necessary — If your pan is small, cook the chicken in two batches. Crowding the pan steams rather than browns the chicken, leading to a less appealing texture.
• Keep the sauce simmering — Once combined, let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened. This helps the flavors meld and creates a rich coating.
• Reheat leftovers correctly — If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To revive the crispiness, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often.

How to Store Easy General Tso's Chicken

Easy General Tso's Chicken keeps best in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Storing it properly ensures that the chicken maintains its texture and flavor without becoming soggy.

Refrigerator

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps for 3 days.
• Check for off smells or discoloration as signs it has gone past its best.

Freezing Easy General Tso's Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe container.
• Will last up to 3 months.
• Look for freezer burn, which appears as white patches on the chicken.

Reheating Easy General Tso's Chicken

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through and the chicken regains some crispiness. Be sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Easy General Tso's Chicken ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store the cooked chicken separately from the sauce, and combine them when you are ready to serve. This helps keep the chicken crispy.

Why did my Easy General Tso's Chicken turn out dense?

If your chicken turned out dense, it might be due to overmixing the cornstarch coating or overcrowding the skillet while cooking. These practices can prevent the chicken pieces from cooking evenly and achieving that desired crispiness.

Can I halve the Easy General Tso's Chicken recipe?

Absolutely. You can halve all the ingredients without impacting the cooking time. Just make sure to keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it still cooks through.

Does Easy General Tso's Chicken freeze well?

Yes, Easy General Tso's Chicken freezes well. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.

What pan can I use instead of a skillet for Easy General Tso's Chicken?

You can use a wok or a large non-stick frying pan instead of a skillet. Just ensure it's large enough to hold the chicken without overcrowding for even cooking.

Final Thoughts

Easy General Tso's Chicken offers a delightful balance of crispy chicken and tangy sauce, making it a versatile dish for any weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition. Try this recipe, and discover how easy and satisfying homemade Chinese takeout can be!