general tao chicken recipe
The Best general tao chicken recipe
I’ve been making General Tao chicken for years, and it’s a staple in our household. My kids love it, and it’s a perfect recipe for when I need to get dinner on the table quickly. It’s also a great option for when we have guests over, as it’s easy to make in large quantities.
The dish is named after the famous Chinese chef who created it, and its origins are a bit murky. However, the end result is what matters – a delicious and flavorful dish that’s easy to make at home. The key to making good General Tao chicken is in the sauce.
It’s made with soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar, which gives it a sweet and sour flavor. I like to use high-quality ingredients to get the best flavor out of the dish. The chicken itself is usually made with boneless breasts or thighs, which are breaded and then deep-fried until crispy.
This gives the chicken a nice texture that pairs well with the sauce. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it over rice, noodles, or even just on its own as a snack.
I like to add some vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to make it more substantial. You can also customize the sauce to your taste by adding more or less of any ingredient. In terms of health benefits, General Tao chicken is not the healthiest option out there.
However, if you’re using lean protein sources like chicken breast and making your own sauce from scratch, you can still make this dish relatively healthy.
General Tao Chicken
Crispy chicken chunks coated in a sweet and tangy sauce. This dish is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
🥘Ingredients
For the Chicken
For the Sauce
For Garnish
👨🍳Directions
Set aside.
Set aside.
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
General Tao chicken is a versatile dish that works well for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or a weeknight dinner, this dish is always a hit.
I often double the recipe when I have guests over, as it’s a crowd-pleaser and a great option for feeding a large group. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time and reheat just before serving.
The leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, although the texture of the chicken may change. I like to serve it with some steamed vegetables or a side salad to balance out the meal and add some extra nutrition.
It’s a great way to enjoy a taste of Chinese-American cuisine at home, and I highly recommend giving it a try.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About General Tao Chicken
Q1: What is General Tao chicken?
General Tao chicken is a Chinese-inspired dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a sweet and sour sauce.
Q2: What type of protein can I use for General Tao chicken?
You can use either boneless breasts or thighs for this recipe.
Q3: How do I make the sauce for General Tao chicken?
The sauce is made by combining soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and sometimes cornstarch as a thickening agent.
Q4: Can I serve General Tao chicken over anything other than rice?
Yes, you can serve it over noodles or even just on its own as a snack.
Q5: How do I customize the sauce for my taste?
You can adjust the amount of ingredients in the sauce to your liking by adding more or less of any ingredient.