Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken: A Weeknight Dinner Revolution
General Tso’s Chicken is a beloved takeout classic, known for its crispy, saucy, and slightly sweet flavor profile. However, recreating this restaurant favorite at home can sometimes feel like a daunting task, involving multiple steps, deep frying, and a lengthy cooking process. But what if I told you that you could achieve equally delicious (if not better!) General Tso’s Chicken in a fraction of the time, with significantly less effort, all thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot? This recipe transforms the traditionally laborious dish into a quick, easy, and healthy weeknight meal. Get ready to ditch the takeout menu and embrace the Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken revolution!
Why Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken is a Game-Changer
The Instant Pot is a multi-functional electric pressure cooker that has revolutionized home cooking. Its ability to cook food quickly and efficiently makes it a perfect tool for busy individuals and families. Here’s why it’s perfect for General Tso’s Chicken:
* **Speed:** The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time compared to traditional methods. The chicken cooks in a fraction of the time, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
* **Ease:** The entire dish is largely cooked in one pot, minimizing cleanup. This is a significant advantage over deep-frying and pan-frying, which require multiple pans and can be messy.
* **Healthier:** This recipe uses less oil than traditional deep-fried versions, making it a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.
* **Flavor:** The pressure cooking process infuses the chicken with the delicious General Tso’s sauce, creating a deeply flavorful and tender dish.
* **Customizable:** You can easily adjust the ingredients and spice level to suit your preferences. Want it spicier? Add more chili flakes. Prefer a sweeter sauce? Increase the honey or sugar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. This list might seem a bit long, but don’t be intimidated! Most of these are pantry staples, and the effort is well worth the delicious result.
**For the Chicken:**
* **1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes:** Chicken thighs are preferred for their richer flavor and ability to remain tender during pressure cooking. However, you can also use chicken breasts, though they may be slightly drier. If using chicken breast, consider reducing the cooking time by a minute or two.
* **1/4 cup cornstarch:** Cornstarch is essential for creating a light and crispy coating on the chicken.
* **1/4 teaspoon salt:** Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
* **1/4 teaspoon black pepper:** Adds a touch of spice.
* **1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil:** For searing the chicken, adding flavor and color.
**For the General Tso’s Sauce:**
* **1/2 cup chicken broth:** Provides the base for the sauce. Use low-sodium broth to control the salt level.
* **1/4 cup soy sauce:** Adds umami and saltiness to the sauce. Low-sodium soy sauce is recommended.
* **1/4 cup rice vinegar:** Adds tanginess and balances the sweetness of the sauce.
* **1/4 cup granulated sugar:** Provides sweetness to balance the other flavors. You can substitute with honey or maple syrup for a healthier alternative.
* **2 tablespoons hoisin sauce:** Adds a rich, savory, and slightly sweet flavor. It’s a key ingredient in General Tso’s sauce.
* **1 tablespoon cornstarch:** Used to thicken the sauce.
* **1 tablespoon water:** To create a cornstarch slurry for thickening.
* **1 tablespoon sesame oil:** Adds a nutty aroma and flavor to the sauce.
* **2 cloves garlic, minced:** Adds pungent flavor.
* **1 teaspoon ginger, minced:** Adds warmth and aroma.
* **1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional):** For adding heat. Adjust to your preference.
* **1 green onion, sliced (for garnish):** Adds freshness and visual appeal.
* **Sesame seeds (for garnish):** Adds texture and flavor.
**Optional Additions:**
* **Vegetables:** Broccoli florets, bell peppers (diced), or snap peas can be added to the Instant Pot during the last few minutes of cooking for a more complete meal.
* **Cashews or peanuts:** Add a crunchy element to the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Cooking General Tso’s Chicken in Your Instant Pot
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a delicious and satisfying Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken.
**Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**
1. In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken thighs with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly. This coating will help the chicken brown nicely and create a slightly crispy texture.
**Step 2: Sear the Chicken**
1. Turn on your Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Add olive oil (or sesame oil) to the pot. Allow the oil to heat up for a minute or two until it’s shimmering.
2. Add the chicken to the Instant Pot in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. You may need to work in batches. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step is crucial for developing flavor and creating a more appealing texture. Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and set aside.
**Step 3: Make the Sauce**
1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Make sure the sugar is dissolved completely.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. This slurry will be used to thicken the sauce later.
**Step 4: Pressure Cook the Chicken**
1. Pour the General Tso’s sauce mixture into the Instant Pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This is important to prevent the “Burn” error message.
2. Add the seared chicken back to the Instant Pot, ensuring it’s mostly submerged in the sauce.
3. Close the Instant Pot lid and seal the valve. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the cooking time to 8 minutes.
**Step 5: Natural Pressure Release**
1. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. This means letting the pressure gradually decrease on its own. After 10 minutes, manually release any remaining pressure by carefully opening the valve. Be cautious, as hot steam will be released.
**Step 6: Thicken the Sauce**
1. Select the “Sauté” function again. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
2. Slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. This should only take a minute or two.
3. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want to add more soy sauce for saltiness, sugar for sweetness, or red pepper flakes for heat.
**Step 7: Serve and Garnish**
1. Serve the Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken hot over cooked rice or noodles.
2. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
3. Optional: Add steamed broccoli florets or other vegetables for a more complete meal.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pot:** When searing the chicken, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the pot and prevent the chicken from browning properly.
* **Deglaze the Pot:** Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot after searing the chicken. This will prevent the “Burn” error message and add flavor to the sauce.
* **Adjust the Spice Level:** Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can omit them altogether.
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Fresh garlic and ginger will provide the best flavor. Avoid using powdered versions if possible.
* **Control the Salt:** Use low-sodium soy sauce and chicken broth to control the salt level of the dish. You can always add more salt to taste later.
* **Natural Pressure Release is Key:** Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes will help the chicken remain tender and prevent it from drying out.
* **Thicken the Sauce to Your Liking:** Adjust the amount of cornstarch slurry to achieve your desired sauce consistency. Some people prefer a thicker sauce, while others prefer a thinner sauce.
* **Customize with Vegetables:** Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the Instant Pot during the last few minutes of cooking. Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas are all great options.
Variations and Substitutions
* **Chicken Breast:** While chicken thighs are recommended, you can use chicken breast instead. Reduce the cooking time to 6-7 minutes.
* **Honey or Maple Syrup:** Substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup for a healthier alternative.
* **Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free soy sauce and tamari sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
* **Vegetarian:** Substitute the chicken with firm tofu, cut into cubes. Press the tofu to remove excess water before cooking.
* **Spicy:** Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil for extra heat.
* **Pineapple:** For a sweet and sour twist, add some pineapple chunks during the last few minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken is delicious served with:
* **Rice:** White rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice are all excellent choices.
* **Noodles:** Lo mein noodles or chow mein noodles are a great alternative to rice.
* **Steamed Vegetables:** Broccoli, carrots, or bok choy are healthy and delicious side dishes.
* **Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls:** These are classic Chinese appetizers that pair perfectly with General Tso’s Chicken.
Make Ahead and Storage Instructions
* **Make Ahead:** You can prepare the General Tso’s sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before cooking for even more flavor.
* **Storage:** Leftover Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
* **Freezing:** While not ideal, you can freeze leftover General Tso’s Chicken. However, the texture of the chicken and sauce may change slightly after freezing. Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken is a fantastic way to enjoy your favorite takeout dish at home, with less effort and healthier ingredients. The Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, making it a perfect weeknight meal option. With its customizable flavor profile and easy cleanup, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So, ditch the takeout menus and embrace the deliciousness of homemade Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken! Enjoy!
Recipe Card
**Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken**
A quick, easy, and healthy version of the classic takeout dish, made in your Instant Pot.
**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 25 minutes
**Total Time:** 40 minutes
**Servings:** 4-6 servings
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1/4 cup cornstarch
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1/4 cup soy sauce
* 1/4 cup rice vinegar
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch
* 1 tablespoon water
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 1 green onion, sliced (for garnish)
* Sesame seeds (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken thighs with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
2. Turn on your Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Add olive oil (or sesame oil) to the pot. Add the chicken in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
5. Pour the General Tso’s sauce mixture into the Instant Pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the seared chicken back to the Instant Pot.
6. Close the Instant Pot lid and seal the valve. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the cooking time to 8 minutes.
7. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, manually release any remaining pressure.
8. Select the “Sauté” function again. Bring the sauce to a simmer. Slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
9. Serve the Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken hot over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
**Notes:**
* Adjust the spice level to your preference.
* Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking.
* For a healthier option, substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken!