Description
Welcome to a delightful recipe for Easy General Tso’s Chicken, a dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. If you’re a fan of classic Chinese-American cuisine or simply looking for a comforting meal to impress your loved ones, this recipe is the ideal choice. Packed with juicy chicken, bold sauce, and a hint of spice, General Tso’s Chicken is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3 breasts), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 2 heaping teaspoons minced garlic (3 to 4 cloves)
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
- 3 (3-ounce) packets of ramen noodles (seasoning discarded)
- Optional: Sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and more soy sauce for garnish
Substitution Options:
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Replace hoisin sauce with a combination of soy sauce and peanut butter if allergic.
- Adjust the level of spice by omitting or increasing the crushed red pepper flakes.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces. Place the cornstarch in a gallon-sized zip-top bag. Add in the chicken, seal the bag, and toss until the chicken pieces are evenly coated.
Step 2: Create the Sauce
In a medium bowl, mix together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes. Set the sauce aside.
Step 3: Cook the Ramen
Prepare the ramen noodles according to package directions, omitting the seasoning packets. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Shake off any excess cornstarch from the chicken and add it to the hot oil. Cook the chicken pieces until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. If necessary, work in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 5: Simmer the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the prepared sauce mixture. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 5 minutes or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and coat it evenly with the sauce. Add the cooked ramen noodles and toss everything together until the noodles are well-coated. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and an extra splash of soy sauce, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Tip 1: For a crispier texture, you can fry the chicken twice. First, fry until lightly golden, then remove and let it rest for a minute. Fry again until fully cooked and crispy.
- Tip 2: Marinating the chicken in soy sauce and ginger for 10 minutes before coating it in cornstarch will add extra flavor.
- Tip 3: Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken. This will ensure even cooking and browning.