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General Tso’s Chicken is a beloved dish that has become a staple of American-Chinese cuisine. Known for its bold flavors and satisfying crunch, it has won the hearts of many food enthusiasts across the United States. This dish is frequently featured on menus in Chinese restaurants, making it a go-to choice for diners seeking a taste of something sweet, savory, and slightly spicy. The combination of tender chicken coated in a thick, flavorful sauce is not just a meal; it's an experience that encapsulates the essence of comfort food.

Quick Takeout-Style General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Discover the joy of cooking with this Quick and Crunchy General Tso’s Chicken recipe, a beloved American-Chinese classic! This dish combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and savory sauce, all coated in a satisfying crunchy layer. Perfect for busy weeknights, you can create this flavorful meal at home in no time. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and impress your family with a delicious dinner that captures the essence of your favorite takeout!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup cornstarch

2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

3 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece ginger, grated

1/2 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup rice vinegar

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prep the Chicken: In a large bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the cornstarch and toss to coat evenly. This coating will ensure a crispy texture when frying.

    Heat the Oil: In a deep pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test this by dropping a piece of coated chicken into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.

      Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

        Prepare the Sauce: In a separate saucepan, combine the minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

          Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the fried chicken to the saucepan with the sauce. Toss gently to coat each piece of chicken thoroughly in the delicious sauce.

            Serve: Transfer the General Tso’s Chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.

              Enjoy Your Meal: Serve hot with steamed rice or on a bed of stir-fried vegetables to enjoy a perfect takeout-style meal at home!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings