General Tso's Orange Chicken

Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature while frying for best results, aiming for around 350 degrees F.

Make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before dredging to make sure the coating sticks properly.

Marinate the chicken in some of the orange juice and Worcestershire sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking for more flavor.

Use a cooling rack over paper toweling or a sheet pan to keep the chicken crispier after frying.

If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar and adjust the acidity with more orange juice or a splash of vinegar.

Try different citrus fruits like lime or lemon for variations in flavor.

If you have sesame oil, a drizzle added to the sauce at the end can add extra flavor.

Make additional sauce to serve on the side for guests who may want more.

Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color.

Make sure to keep the cooked chicken warm in a low oven if serving in batches to make sure all pieces stay hot and crispy.

What is General Tso's Orange Chicken?

General Tso's Orange Chicken is a popular dish that combines the sweet and spicy flavors typically associated with General Tso's chicken, enhanced with the addition of orange zest and juice for a fruity twist.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. However, keep in mind that thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, while breasts may dry out if overcooked. So, keep your eye on them while cooking and adjust the time as needed.

Why use cornstarch in this recipe?

Cornstarch helps create a light, crispy coating when dredging the chicken. It also acts as a thickening agent in the sauce, giving it a glossy, smooth texture.

Can I make this dish spicy without using cayenne pepper?

You can adjust the heat level by using more or fewer crushed red pepper flakes or by substituting with other hot sauces like sriracha or chili garlic sauce.

How do I get extra crispy chicken?

For extra crispy chicken, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken pieces. Fry the chicken in small batches to allow for even cooking and avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature.

What can I serve with General Tso's Orange Chicken?

This dish is commonly served with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also include vegetables such as steamed broccoli or a side salad.

How should I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you have leftover sauce, store it separately to keep the chicken crispy.

Can I freeze General Tso's Orange Chicken?

You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers. It is best to consume it within 2-3 months. Reheat the chicken in the oven and the sauce on the stovetop or microwave.

What if I don't have Worcestershire sauce?

If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, try using soy sauce as a substitute, or mix soy sauce with a splash of vinegar or a bit of sugar for a similar flavor.

How can I thicken the sauce more if needed?

To thicken the sauce, you can make a slurry by mixing equal parts cornstarch and water and gradually adding it to the sauce while simmering, stirring constantly until thickened.

Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

You can add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots either in the frying process with the chicken or as a stir-fried topping.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. You can use a meat thermometer to check, or cut through a piece to make sure it's no longer pink inside.

Heavy Pan: For frying the chicken pieces until they are golden brown and crispy. A deep skillet that can hold enough oil to fry the chicken is ideal. You can also use a deep fryer.

Deep Skillet: For creating the sauce. You can also use a wok or wide saucepan.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring the various ingredients, including the flour, cornstarch, orange juice, etc.

Shallow Bowls: At least two shallow bowls are necessary - one for whisking the eggs and another for combining the flour with the spices and cornstarch.

Whisk: Used for combining the eggs in a shallow bowl, providing a smooth egg mixture for coating the chicken.

Cooking Thermometer (optional): Helpful for monitoring the oil's temperature while frying the chicken.

Cooling Rack: Placed over a baking sheet to hold the chicken pieces while they dry.

Paper Towels: For draining excess oil from the cooked chicken before tossing it in the sauce. You can also use a clean cooling rack over paper towels or a baking sheet.

Tongs or Fork: For handling the chicken pieces while dredging them in flour and flipping them during frying.

Knives: For slicing the chicken thighs or breasts into 2-inch pieces and also cutting up the butter.

Fried Rice: Serve the orange chicken over a bed of fried rice for a delightful combination. The savory flavors and textures of the rice balance out the sweetness of the chicken.

Steamed Broccoli: Pair with steamed broccoli to add a healthy component. The slight bitterness of the broccoli contrasts nicely with the sweet and spicy sauce.

Egg Rolls: Include crispy baked egg rolls as a side dish.

Crispy Wontons: Serve with cream cheese wontons on the side. Their neutral flavor complements the distinct taste of the orange chicken without competing for attention.

Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the finished dish for a bit of nuttiness and texture.

Green Onions: Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh, oniony bite. They provide a burst of color and add to the overall flavor with their mildness.

Chili Garlic Sauce: Include chili garlic sauce on the side for those who want to amp up the heat. This spicy addition will complement the dish without overshadowing its unique flavors.

Cilantro: Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro leaves for an aromatic touch. The herb adds brightness and freshness.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The subtle flavor of jasmine rice makes it a fantastic sidekick, absorbing all that sweet and spicy sauce while providing a nice texture contrast.

Szechuan Noodles: A noodly twist that complements the sauce's spice and orange zest. Plus, who doesn't love twirling noodles around their fork?

Scallion Pancakes: These crispy, savory scallion pancakes offer a delightful yin to the chicken's sweet, spicy yang.

Pickled Cucumber Salad: Cool, tangy cucumber namasu refreshes the palate and offers the perfect bite to cut through the richness of the sauce.

Egg Drop Soup: Light and comforting, a bowl of this restaurant-style egg drop soup kicks off the meal gently, warming you up for the main act.

Hot and Sour Soup: If you're feeling fiery, this slow cooked hot and sour soup matches the chicken's pizzazz, enhancing the heat while adding a touch of tang.

Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, dive into this sticky-sweet tropical delight of mango sticky rice that echoes the orange tones but with a refreshing, fruity twist.

Fortune Cookies: End on a whimsical note, and who knows, your easy homemade fortune cookies might just predict you'll be craving this meal again soon!

Wine Pairings
Gewurztraminer: This wine brings tropical fruit and spicy ginger notes that can mingle happily with the sweet and spicy flavors of the orange chicken. Look for one with a little sweetness to balance the heat.

Chardonnay: Opt for an oaked Chardonnay, which often has buttery notes and a hint of vanilla. This richness can play nicely against the crispy chicken and the zesty orange sauce. Aim for one that's balanced - not too oaky, but just right.

Pinot Grigio: If you prefer something lighter, go for a Pinot Grigio. Its crisp acidity and citrus notes will enhance the orange flavor in the dish and won't overwhelm the spices.

Other Alcohol Pairings
Pale Ale: A pale ale can be your go-to buddy here. Its hop bitterness will cut through the richness of the fried chicken and complement the spice without stealing the show.

Sake: A chilled Junmai sake, which is smooth and a bit sweet, pairs surprisingly well with the flavors of this dish. It's light and friendly.

Margarita: An orange-flavored margarita could be a fun homage to the orange in your dish. The zesty lime and sweetness of the orange will pair with the flavors nicely.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Fresh Orange Juice: Why not just go for the source? Freshly squeezed orange juice will echo the citrus in the dish, bringing a bright and refreshing quality.

Ginger Ale: This fizz-filled drink will bring a lovely spiciness that complements the heat without going overboard. Plus, the bubbles make everything way more fun.

Coconut Lemonade: This drink adds a sweet and tangy blend that will work well with the rich, orange flavors of your chicken.