Are you a fan of General Tso’s chicken? If so, you’re in luck! We’ve got 19 delicious and spicy General Tso’s chicken recipes to try. From classic and crispy to healthy and veggie-packed options, we’ve got something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our favorite General Tso’s chicken recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re a foodie looking for new inspiration or just a busy person trying to get dinner on the table quickly, these recipes are sure to impress. And the best part? They’re all easy to make and use common ingredients.
So what are you waiting for? Dive into our collection of General Tso’s chicken recipes and start cooking up some delicious meals today!
Classic General Tso’s Chicken
This iconic Chinese-American dish is a staple of takeout menus everywhere. With this recipe, you can create your own authentic General Tso’s Chicken at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch and soy sauce until smooth.
2. Add chicken to the bowl and toss to coat.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove chicken from the wok; set aside.
6. In the same wok, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
8. Add chicken back to the wok and toss to coat with the sauce.
9. Cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
10. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
11. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy General Tso’s Chicken
Crispy General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
Experience the authentic flavors of Chinese takeout with this easy-to-make Crispy General Tso’s Chicken recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/4 cup General Tso’s sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parchment paper or cooking spray for frying
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch and salt. Add the chicken pieces and toss until coated.
- Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
- Pour in General Tso’s sauce and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy General Tso’s Chicken
This recipe is a healthier take on the classic Chinese dish, using less sugar and sodium while still maintaining the bold flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken and toss to coat.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Toss the mixed vegetables with a pinch of salt and pepper, and spread on the baking sheet alongside the chicken.
6. Continue roasting for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken with Broccoli
Experience the sweet and spicy flavors of Chinese-American cuisine with this simple and flavorful recipe for General Tso’s Chicken with Broccoli. This classic dish is a staple in many Asian restaurants, and now you can make it at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup General Tso’s sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the General Tso’s sauce, garlic, and ginger. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss with the sauce and broccoli.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Spicy General Tso’s Chicken
A flavorful twist on the classic Chinese-American dish, this Sweet and Spicy General Tso’s Chicken recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the spiciness of chili flakes for a unique and delicious flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add garlic, ginger, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add cooked chicken back to skillet and toss to coat with sweet and spicy sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken Stir Fry
A classic Chinese-American dish that combines crispy chicken, savory sauce, and crunchy vegetables in a wok-fried fusion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, green, yellow)
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup General Tso’s sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. In same wok, add remaining 1 tbsp oil. Cook bell peppers, onion, garlic, and ginger for 4-5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Stir in General Tso’s sauce and cooked chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked General Tso’s Chicken
Transform your taste buds with this sweet and spicy Baked General Tso’s Chicken recipe, a twist on the classic Chinese-American dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup General Tso’s sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp ginger powder
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together General Tso’s sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, ginger powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken pieces and toss until coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken Wings
Elevate your snack game with this mouthwatering recipe for General Tso’s Chicken Wings, featuring crispy fried chicken coated in a sweet and spicy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken wings
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup General Tso’s sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cornstarch, salt, and red pepper flakes.
3. Toss chicken wings with vegetable oil until coated, then coat with the cornstarch mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crispy.
5. In a saucepan, combine General Tso’s sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
6. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly.
7. Toss baked wings with the warm sauce until fully coated.
8. Garnish with scallions and toasted sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Vegetarian General Tso’s Chicken
A plant-based twist on the classic Chinese dish, this Vegetarian General Tso’s Chicken recipe is a game-changer for veggie lovers. Crispy tofu pieces are tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce, served with steamed broccoli and rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons General Tso’s sauce (vegetarian)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Steamed broccoli and cooked white rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch and salt.
2. Dredge tofu pieces in the cornstarch mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove tofu from the pan and set aside.
5. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Pour in vegetable broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and General Tso’s sauce. Bring to a simmer.
7. Add sesame oil, tofu, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
8. Serve with steamed broccoli and cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken Salad
A twist on traditional chicken salad, this recipe combines the flavors of General Tso’s chicken with crunchy vegetables and creamy dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup General Tso’s sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup celery, diced
– 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, General Tso’s sauce, celery, bell pepper, and green onions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and soy sauce.
3. Add the dressing mixture to the chicken mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve on mixed greens (if using) or as a sandwich filling.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this unique fusion of Chinese and Mexican flavors! Crunchy, sweet, and savory, these General Tso’s Chicken Tacos are a must-try.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup General Tso’s sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the General Tso’s sauce to the same skillet and stir to combine with any remaining oil and chicken juices.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the tacos by placing cooked chicken onto a warmed tortilla, topping with cabbage, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this unique fusion of Chinese-American flavors! This General Tso’s Chicken Pizza combines the spicy, savory goodness of General Tso’s chicken with the classic comfort of a cheesy pizza.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup General Tso’s sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough and spread General Tso’s sauce evenly, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. In a separate pan, cook chicken pieces with vegetable oil, garlic powder, soy sauce, and sesame oil until cooked through.
4. Arrange cooked chicken on top of pizza sauce.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over chicken.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken Sliders
Get ready to elevate your slider game with these crispy and savory General Tso’s Chicken Sliders!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup General Tso’s sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 4 hamburger buns
– Sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and pickled ginger for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together chicken, General Tso’s sauce, and 1 tbsp of the vegetable oil.
2. Heat the remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken mixture and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast lightly.
5. Assemble the sliders by placing the General Tso’s chicken on the bun, garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and pickled ginger if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps
A twist on the classic Chinese dish, these General Tso’s chicken lettuce wraps offer a flavorful and refreshing take on traditional chicken tenders. With crispy chicken, crunchy lettuce, and creamy sauce, this recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup General Tso’s sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together General Tso’s sauce and 1 tablespoon of water.
3. Add chicken pieces to the sauce mixture; toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; arrange chicken in a single layer. Drizzle with vegetable oil.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, prepare lettuce leaves and scallions.
7. Assemble wraps by placing a piece of chicken on each lettuce leaf, followed by a drizzle of General Tso’s sauce.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken Meatballs
A twist on the classic Chinese-American dish, these meatballs combine the flavors of General Tso’s chicken with the convenience of a bite-sized snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, cheese, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with vegetable oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this unique fusion of Chinese flavors and Italian comfort food! This General Tso’s Chicken Pasta combines the spicy kick of Szechuan chicken with the creamy richness of Parmesan sauce, all wrapped up in a bed of al dente noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup General Tso’s sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp. soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Pour in General Tso’s sauce and heavy cream. Stir to combine, then return cooked chicken to the pan.
5. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Serve hot, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken Rice Bowl
Satisfy your cravings with this savory and sweet Chinese-inspired dish. This easy-to-make recipe combines crispy fried chicken, flavorful General Tso’s sauce, and fluffy cooked rice in a single bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon General Tso’s sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), General Tso’s sauce, and sesame oil.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and stir to coat.
5. Serve the chicken over cooked rice in a bowl.
6. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken Spring Rolls
Elevate your snack game with this innovative fusion of General Tso’s chicken and crispy spring rolls. Perfect for game days or movie nights, these flavorful treats will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the produce section)
– 1/2 cup cooked General Tso’s chicken (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together cooked General Tso’s chicken, shredded carrots, and chopped scallions.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Brush edges with soy sauce and sesame oil. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry spring rolls until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total
General Tso’s Chicken Dumplings
A twist on traditional Chinese-American cuisine, these bite-sized dumplings combine the flavors of General Tso’s chicken with a savory filling and a crispy wrapper.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup General Tso’s chicken (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together General Tso’s chicken, scallions, cheese, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Place dumplings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each dumpling.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Conclusion
Spice up your mealtime with these 19 mouth-watering General Tso’s chicken recipes! From classic dishes to creative twists, this collection has something for everyone. Try the crispy and flavorful Classic General Tso’s Chicken or the healthy and nutritious Healthy General Tso’s Chicken. For a veggie-packed option, check out General Tso’s Chicken with Broccoli. And if you’re looking for a unique spin, try General Tso’s Chicken Tacos or General Tso’s Chicken Pizza. With so many options to choose from, you’ll never get bored of this spicy and savory dish!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
