Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken: A Flavor Explosion You Can Make at Home!
General Tso’s Chicken. Just the name conjures up images of crispy, glistening chicken coated in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce. It’s a takeout staple, a comfort food classic, and undeniably delicious. But what if you could recreate that incredible flavor at home, with fresher ingredients and a recipe that’s surprisingly easy to follow? That’s where Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken comes in. This recipe isn’t just another copycat; it’s a perfected version, designed to deliver authentic flavors and satisfying results. Get ready to ditch the delivery apps and embark on a culinary adventure that will transform your kitchen into your favorite Chinese restaurant!
Why This Recipe Works
There are countless General Tso’s Chicken recipes online, so why choose this one? Here’s what sets Deb’s version apart:
* **Authentic Flavor Profile:** This recipe meticulously balances sweet, sour, savory, and spicy elements, creating a complex and nuanced flavor that’s true to the original dish.
* **Crispy Chicken, Every Time:** The secret lies in the double-frying technique and the perfect blend of cornstarch and flour in the coating. This ensures that the chicken stays crispy even after being coated in the sauce.
* **Homemade Sauce with Fresh Ingredients:** Forget pre-made sauces filled with artificial flavors and preservatives. This recipe uses a simple yet flavorful homemade sauce made with readily available ingredients.
* **Easy to Follow Instructions:** The recipe is broken down into clear and concise steps, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
* **Customizable Spice Level:** You can easily adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your preferred level of heat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients. Don’t be intimidated by the list; most of these are pantry staples!
**For the Chicken:**
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1/4 cup soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 cup cornstarch
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* Vegetable oil, for frying
**For the Sauce:**
* 1/4 cup soy sauce
* 1/4 cup rice vinegar
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
**For Garnish (Optional):**
* Sesame seeds
* Chopped green onions
* Dried red chilies
Equipment You’ll Need
* Large bowl
* Whisk
* Shallow dish
* Large wok or deep skillet
* Tongs or slotted spoon
* Paper towels
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed instructions to create your own restaurant-quality General Tso’s Chicken.
**Part 1: Marinating the Chicken**
1. **Prepare the Marinade:** In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, and garlic powder.
2. **Marinate the Chicken:** Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
**Part 2: Coating the Chicken**
1. **Prepare the Coating Mixture:** In a shallow dish, whisk together the cornstarch and all-purpose flour.
2. **Coat the Chicken:** Remove the chicken from the marinade and dredge each piece in the cornstarch mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly. Press the coating onto the chicken to help it adhere.
**Part 3: Frying the Chicken**
1. **Heat the Oil:** Fill a large wok or deep skillet with about 2 inches of vegetable oil. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature. If the oil is not hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become soggy. If it’s too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside before it’s cooked through.
2. **First Fry:** Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the wok. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per batch, or until the chicken is lightly golden brown. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
3. **Second Fry:** Once all the chicken has been fried once, increase the heat to medium-high and bring the oil back up to 350°F (175°C). Return the chicken to the hot oil in batches and fry for another 1-2 minutes per batch, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. This second fry is crucial for achieving that signature crispy texture.
4. **Drain and Set Aside:** Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a clean plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
**Part 4: Making the Sauce**
1. **Combine Sauce Ingredients:** In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, hoisin sauce, and cornstarch.
2. **Sauté Aromatics:** Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. **Add Chicken Broth:** Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. **Add Sauce Mixture:** Slowly pour the sauce mixture into the wok, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
5. **Add Red Pepper Flakes:** Stir in the red pepper flakes to taste. Start with 1/2 teaspoon and add more if you want a spicier sauce.
**Part 5: Combining the Chicken and Sauce**
1. **Add Chicken to Sauce:** Add the fried chicken to the wok and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce. Make sure every piece of chicken is covered in that delicious glaze.
2. **Cook Briefly:** Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce is heated through and the chicken is glistening.
**Part 6: Serving and Garnishing**
1. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the General Tso’s Chicken immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
2. **Garnish (Optional):** Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and visual appeal. You can also add some dried red chilies for an extra kick.
Tips for Success
* **Use Chicken Thighs:** Chicken thighs are more flavorful and tender than chicken breasts, and they stay moist during the frying process.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Wok:** Frying the chicken in batches prevents the oil temperature from dropping too much, which can result in soggy chicken.
* **Use a Thermometer:** Using a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature ensures that the chicken is cooked evenly and stays crispy.
* **Adjust the Spice Level:** Add more or less red pepper flakes to suit your preferred level of heat.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Substitute the chicken with tofu or cauliflower florets for a vegetarian version. Make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before coating and frying.
* **Prepare Ahead:** You can marinate the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time. Store the marinated chicken in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours and the sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just remember to fry the chicken and combine it with the sauce just before serving.
Variations
* **Orange Chicken:** Substitute half of the chicken broth in the sauce with orange juice and add 1 tablespoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist.
* **Sesame Chicken:** Add 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds to the sauce and garnish with extra sesame seeds for a nutty flavor.
* **Kung Pao Chicken:** Add peanuts, diced bell peppers, and dried chilies to the wok along with the garlic and ginger for a Kung Pao-inspired dish.
Serving Suggestions
General Tso’s Chicken is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when served with these sides:
* **Steamed Rice:** A classic pairing that allows the flavors of the chicken to shine.
* **Fried Rice:** Adds a complementary savory element to the meal.
* **Noodles:** Lo mein or chow mein are great options for a heartier meal.
* **Vegetable Stir-Fry:** Adds some healthy greens to the plate.
* **Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls:** Perfect appetizers to start the meal.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* Calories: 500-600 per serving
* Fat: 30-40g
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g
* Protein: 30-40g
*Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover General Tso’s Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. The chicken may lose some of its crispness during reheating, but it will still be delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
* **Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?**
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but chicken thighs are recommended for their flavor and tenderness. If using chicken breast, be careful not to overcook it, as it can become dry.
* **Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?**
While baking the chicken is a healthier option, it won’t achieve the same crispy texture as frying. If you prefer to bake it, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the coated chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
* **Can I make this recipe gluten-free?**
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and using gluten-free all-purpose flour.
* **Can I freeze General Tso’s Chicken?**
It’s not recommended to freeze General Tso’s Chicken, as the sauce can become watery and the chicken can lose its crispness upon thawing.
* **How can I make the sauce thicker?**
If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a little more cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to the wok and cook until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Conclusion
Deb’s General Tso’s Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s the joy of creating a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen, the satisfaction of knowing exactly what ingredients are going into your food, and the pleasure of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. You might never order takeout again!
Enjoy your homemade General Tso’s Chicken!