Easy Air Fryer General Tso Chicken

Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken Ditch the Takeout, Not the Flavor: Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken!

Crispy chicken pieces smothered in the homemade sauce is an easy weeknight meal idea. If you love a Chinese takeout classic meal, you will love this Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken Recipe! 

Craving the iconic sweet and spicy General Tso’s Chicken, but looking for a healthier and more convenient option? Look no further than your trusty air fryer! Today, we’re taking this classic dish and giving it a delicious air-fried makeover, keeping all the flavor you love without the added grease.

Get ready for:

• Crispy, golden chicken: The air fryer delivers that crunchy, restaurant-style texture without the need for deep-frying.
• Perfectly balanced sauce: We’ll create a sweet and spicy sauce that’s bursting with flavor, just like the original.
• Easy and customizable: This recipe is simple to follow, and you can adjust the spice level to your taste preference.

So, say goodbye to greasy takeout and hello to healthier, homemade General Tso’s Chicken! Stay tuned for the full recipe coming soon, and in the comments below, tell us your favorite way to enjoy this classic dish! ⬇️

If you love this easy air fryer chicken recipes , some of our most popular Chinese dishes are Air Fryer Sesame Chicken, Air Fryer Chinese Egg Rolls, and Instant Pot Jasmine Rice. And, of course, everyone needs an appetizer of Crab Rangoon to start the meal!

What Is General Tso Chicken?

General Tso’s chicken is a sweet and spicy deep-fried chicken dish that’s a staple of Chinese-American cuisine. Here’s a breakdown of its key points:

• Flavor profile: The signature element is a sweet and spicy sauce typically made with ingredients like soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, chili peppers, and garlic.
• Preparation: Traditionally, the chicken is battered, deep-fried, and then tossed in the sauce.
• Origins: Although named after the 19th-century Chinese military leader Zuo Zongtang, hunan province, the dish is considered Chinese-American as its specific recipe and flavor profile are not found in traditional Chinese cuisine.
• Variations: You’ll find variations in spice level, sweetness, and the inclusion of vegetables depending on the restaurant or recipe.

General Tso’s chicken is a widely popular dish, often enjoyed with steamed rice and broccoli. You can find it at most Chinese-American restaurants or even attempt to make your own at home, including healthy air-fryer versions like the one you’re planning to feature on your website!

Can You Make General Tso’s Chicken In Air Fryer?

Absolutely! You can definitely make General Tso’s chicken in an air fryer, and it’s a healthier and potentially quicker alternative to deep-frying

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

This Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken recipe brings the beloved classic Chinese-American dish into your home kitchen with a healthier twist, offering numerous reasons to fall in love with it:

• Less Oil, Less Guilt: Cooking General Tso’s Chicken in an air fryer significantly reduces the amount of oil needed compared to traditional deep-frying, making it a healthier option without compromising on the crispy texture and rich flavor of the chicken.
• Saves Time: The air fryer cooks the chicken quickly and efficiently, making this dish a speedy option for busy weeknights. You can enjoy the bold flavors of General Tso’s Chicken in less time than it would take to order and pick up takeout.
• Perfectly Crispy Every Time: The air fryer ensures the chicken pieces are evenly cooked and perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside, achieving that ideal texture that’s key to a great General Tso’s Chicken.
• Minimal Mess: Using an air fryer for this dish means you won’t have to deal with the hassle of cleaning up oil splatters from deep frying, making the cleanup process a breeze.
• Bold and Balanced Sauce: The recipe includes a homemade General Tso’s sauce that’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, coating the chicken beautifully and soaking into every crispy bite.
• Customizable Heat Level: Easily adjust the spiciness of the sauce to suit your taste, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy the dish just the way they like it.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: There’s something inherently comforting about digging into a plate of sticky, sweet, and spicy chicken. This air fryer version delivers all the comfort and satisfaction of your favorite takeout dish, right from your own kitchen.

Whether you’re a fan of Chinese-American cuisine or simply looking for a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried dishes, this Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken recipe promises to deliver on taste, texture, and convenience, making it a surefire hit for any meal occasion.

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Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer General Tso chicken

Embrace the fusion of convenience and flavor with this Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken recipe, a healthier take on the beloved Chinese-American classic. Perfect for those seeking to enjoy the rich, bold flavors of their favorite dish without the added calories from deep frying, this recipe utilizes the air fryer to achieve crispy, succulent chicken pieces enveloped in a sticky, sweet, and spicy sauce. It’s an ideal meal for any day of the week, promising a restaurant-quality experience right from your kitchen.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information. 

• Chicken Thighs or Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and easy eating.
• Cornstarch: Used to coat the chicken, cornstarch helps achieve that desirable crispy exterior when air-fried, mimicking the texture of deep-fried chicken.
• Eggs: Beaten eggs act as the binding agent for the cornstarch, ensuring it adheres to the chicken for a perfect crisp.
• Soy Sauce: Adds depth and umami to both the chicken marinade and the sauce, serving as the salty backbone of this flavorful dish.
• Hoisin Sauce: This thick, fragrant sauce contributes a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, integral to the sauce’s complex character.
• Rice Vinegar: Introduces a mild acidity to the sauce, balancing the sweetness and adding a bright note to the dish’s overall taste profile.
• Sesame Oil: A few drops of sesame oil add a nutty aroma and richness, enhancing the sauce and finishing the dish with a touch of Asian authenticity.
• Brown Sugar: Brown sugar mellows the sauce’s heat with its molasses sweetness, contributing to the sticky consistency that clings beautifully to the chicken.
• Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with its pungent, aromatic flavor, a must-have in any General Tso’s Chicken recipe.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a zesty, warm spice that complements the garlic and elevates the sauce’s flavor complexity.
• Dried Red Chili Peppers: These are key to the dish’s signature heat; adjust the amount to tailor the spice level to your preference.
• Green Onions and Sesame Seeds: Used for garnish, they add a pop of color, texture, and mild onion flavor, along with a subtle crunch and visual appeal.

This Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken recipe transforms a takeout favorite into a healthier, homemade delight without sacrificing the deep, satisfying flavors and crispy texture that make the dish a standout. It’s a testament to how traditional flavors can be adapted to fit modern cooking methods, offering a guilt-free way to indulge in a spicy, sweet, and utterly delicious meal.

How To Make General Tso Chicken In Air Fryer

Creating General Tso’s Chicken in an air fryer offers a healthier alternative to the deep-fried classic, retaining all the bold flavors and satisfying crunch. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Prep the chicken

• Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces and place in a medium-sized bowl. Add the beaten egg, coat the chicken in the egg, and set aside.
• Whisk the flour, cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder in another medium-sized bowl.

Step 2: Air Fry the Chicken

• Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees F, air fryer setting for 2-3 minutes
• Take the chicken pieces individually and let the excess egg drip off.
• Dip into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Step 3: Air Fry General Tso’s Chicken

• Spray the air fryer’s basket with olive oil, place the chicken pieces into the basket (not touching), and spray them generously with cooking spray. You may need to do this in batches.
• Set cook time for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, coating with more cooking spray until crispy and an internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees F.

Step 4: Prepare the General Tso Sauce

• Whisk together the chicken stock, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and cornstarch in a small bowl set aside for the sauce.
• In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the vegetable oil. Add the garlic, ginger, and chili flakes to the skillet and cook, stirring for 15 seconds. Add the sauce to the pan and cook for 30 seconds until it thickens.
• Immediately add the chicken and toss in the sauce. Serve with an optional garnish of scallions and sesame seeds.

This air fryer version of General Tso’s Chicken captures the essence of the beloved dish with fewer calories and less mess, making it an ideal recipe for a quick, delicious dinner. Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite, with the added bonus of a crispy texture that’s sure to satisfy.

Recipe Variations

Experimenting with Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken can bring exciting twists to this classic dish, making it adaptable to various tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some creative variations to try:

• Gluten-Free General Tso’s Chicken: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce and replace the hoisin sauce with a gluten-free version. Ensure your cornstarch is also gluten-free, and you’ll have a dish that’s just as delicious without the gluten.
• Vegetarian General Tso’s Tofu: Swap chicken for extra-firm tofu that’s been pressed to remove excess moisture. Cube the tofu, toss it in cornstarch, and follow the same air frying method. This vegetarian alternative offers a delightful crunch with a burst of the classic General Tso’s flavor.
• Honey Sesame Variation: For a sweeter take on General Tso’s Chicken, add honey to the sauce and garnish the finished dish with sesame seeds. The honey adds a rich, sticky sweetness that complements the spicy and savory notes perfectly.
• Orange General Tso’s Chicken: Incorporate orange juice and a bit of orange zest into the sauce for a citrusy twist. The fresh, tangy flavor of orange gives the dish a vibrant lift, offering a refreshing contrast to the heat.
• Extra Spicy General Tso’s Chicken: Double the amount of dried red chili peppers or add a teaspoon of chili flakes to the sauce for those who love an extra kick. This fiery version is sure to satisfy spice enthusiasts.
• Low-Sugar General Tso’s Chicken: Reduce the brown sugar or substitute it with a low-calorie sweetener suitable for cooking. This variation caters to those monitoring their sugar intake without sacrificing the essential sweet aspect of the sauce.
• Crispy Almond General Tso’s Chicken: Add crushed almonds to the cornstarch coating for an extra layer of texture. The almonds provide a nutty flavor and a crunch that elevates the dish’s complexity.
• Pineapple General Tso’s Chicken: Include chunks of pineapple when tossing the chicken in the sauce. The pineapple adds a tropical sweetness and acidity that balances the spicy and savory flavors beautifully.
• General Tso’s Cauliflower: For a plant-based version, use cauliflower florets instead of chicken. The cauliflower gets wonderfully crispy in the air fryer and soaks up the sauce, making it a satisfying vegetarian option.
• Szechuan-Style General Tso’s Chicken: Introduce Szechuan peppercorns to the sauce for a unique numbing sensation characteristic of Szechuan cuisine. This version is for those looking to explore the depth and complexity of Chinese flavors.

Each variation of Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken provides a new way to enjoy this beloved dish, whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative, catering to dietary restrictions, or simply in the mood to try something new.

Pro Tips

Making General Tso’s Chicken in an air fryer not only provides a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version but also maintains that irresistible crunch and flavor. Here are some pro tips to elevate your air fryer General Tso’s Chicken:

• Marinate for Flavor: Marinate the chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce and a bit of sesame oil before coating them. This step infuses the chicken with more depth of flavor from the inside out.
• Ensure Even Coating: For a uniform crispy layer, ensure each chicken piece is thoroughly coated in the cornstarch and egg mixture. Shake off any excess cornstarch to prevent clumping and ensure a light, crispy texture.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the air fryer. Proper air circulation around each piece is crucial for achieving an evenly crispy exterior.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the chicken. A preheated air fryer ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately, sealing in juices and enhancing crispiness.
• Flip for Even Crispness: Halfway through cooking, flip the chicken pieces to ensure they brown and crisp up evenly on all sides. This step is crucial for that perfect crunchy texture.
• Sauce Consistency: When preparing the sauce, aim for a balance between thickness and fluidity. It should be thick enough to coat the chicken well but not so thick that it becomes gloppy. Adjust with a little water if needed.
• Toss Don’t Soak: Once the chicken is air-fried, toss it in the sauce just before serving. This ensures the chicken maintains its crispiness while still being coated in that flavorful sauce.
• Garnishes Matter: Don’t skip on garnishing with green onions and sesame seeds. These not only add a pop of color but also layer in additional flavors and textures, elevating the dish.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture and taste, serve the General Tso’s Chicken immediately after tossing it in the sauce. The longer it sits, the less crispy it will be.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of dried red chili peppers, red pepper flakes, or chili flakes according to your heat preference. General Tso’s Chicken is known for its balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, so tailor the spiciness to your liking.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to create an air fryer General Tso’s Chicken that rivals your favorite takeout, with the added benefits of being healthier and just as satisfying.

Faqs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, you can use chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces if you prefer. Chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor, but breast meat works well too, especially if you’re looking for a leaner option.

How do I make the tangy sauce stick to the chicken? Ensure the sauce is thick enough to cling to the chicken by simmering it until it reduces slightly. Toss the air-fried chicken in the sauce right after it’s cooked and the sauce is still warm, which helps it adhere better.

Is preheating the air fryer necessary? Preheating the air fryer ensures that your chicken starts cooking at the optimal temperature right away, leading to a more even cook and a crispier exterior. While not all recipes require it, preheating is beneficial for this dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? General Tso’s Chicken is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken ahead of time. Air fry the chicken and toss it in the sauce just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

What if my air fryer is small? If you have a smaller air fryer, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Overcrowding can steam the chicken instead of frying it, resulting in a less crispy texture.

Can I make the dish less spicy? Absolutely. Adjust the level of spiciness by reducing the amount of dried red chili peppers in the sauce. You can also omit the chili peppers altogether for a milder version.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to re-crisp the chicken before serving. For bets results, brush the chicken with olive oil or vegetable oil, before reheating. 

Can I freeze the cooked General Tso’s Chicken? While you can freeze the cooked chicken, the coating may lose some of its crispiness upon reheating. If you choose to freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container and reheat it in the air fryer to help restore some of the texture.

What sides go well with General Tso’s Chicken? Serve General Tso’s Chicken with steamed rice, brown rice, stir-fried vegetables, or noodles. The simplicity of these sides complements the bold flavors of the chicken.

Can I use a different sweetener in the sauce? Yes, you can substitute the brown sugar with honey, maple syrup, or a sugar alternative of your choice. Adjust the sweetness according to your taste preference.

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