Easy Healthy General Tso Chicken Recipe: Guilt-Free!

Introduction

General Tso’s Chicken is a beloved dish, often enjoyed for its sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavor profile. While traditionally deep-fried and high in calories, a healthy General Tso’s chicken recipe offers a lighter, equally delicious alternative. This version maintains the essence of the original while minimizing unhealthy fats and excessive sugars. Its popularity stems from its satisfying taste and the ease with which it can be adapted for home cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1-2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon ground ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for extra heat

Garnish:

Sesame seeds
Chopped green onions

Possible Substitutions:

Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
Coconut aminos can replace soy sauce for a soy-free option.
Brown sugar can be used instead of honey, though it will alter the flavor slightly.

Preparation Steps

Chicken Preparation: 1. Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a crispier texture. 2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. 3. In another bowl, combine the egg, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. 4. Dip each chicken cube into the egg mixture, then dredge it in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. 5. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack while preparing the sauce. This helps prevent the coating from becoming soggy. Sauce Preparation: 1. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, sesame oil, chili garlic sauce, and ginger until the cornstarch is completely dissolved. This prevents clumping during cooking. 2. Mince the garlic and set aside. Tip: Preparing all the ingredients beforehand ensures a smoother and faster cooking process.

Cooking Instructions

Cooking the Chicken: 1. Baking Method: Preheat oven to 400F (200C). Lightly grease a baking sheet. Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, flipping halfway through. 2. Air Fryer Method: Preheat air fryer to 400F (200C). Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, shaking the basket halfway through. 3. Stovetop Method (for slightly crispier results): Heat 1-2 tablespoons of avocado oil or other high-heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes per batch, or until the chicken is cooked through and browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside. Making the Sauce: 1. Using the same skillet or wok (after removing the chicken), add the minced garlic and saut for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. 2. Pour in the sauce mixture and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. The sauce will thicken quickly, about 2-3 minutes. 3. Reduce heat to low and add the cooked chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Tip: For a thicker sauce, whisk 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and add it to the sauce while simmering. For a thinner sauce, add a little more chicken broth.

Serving Suggestions

Healthy General Tso’s Chicken is best served hot over a bed of brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Pair it with steamed broccoli, stir-fried vegetables (such as bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots), or a simple side salad. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add an extra kick. The dish can also be served as part of a larger Asian-inspired meal with spring rolls or dumplings.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Tips for Success: Pat the chicken dry before coating to ensure maximum crispness. Do not overcrowd the baking sheet, air fryer basket, or skillet. Cook in batches to ensure even cooking and browning. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more chili garlic sauce for extra spice, or more honey for extra sweetness. Use low-sodium soy sauce and chicken broth to control the salt content. Allow the sauce to thicken completely before adding the chicken. Common Mistakes to Avoid: Burning the garlic. Saut it briefly and over low heat. Overcooking the chicken. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165F (74C). Adding the chicken to a sauce that is too thin. Ensure the sauce has thickened to the desired consistency before adding the chicken. Using too much oil when cooking the chicken on the stovetop. A thin layer of oil is sufficient to prevent sticking. Not using fresh ingredients. Fresh ginger and garlic make a big difference in flavor.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Learning to prepare a healthy General Tso’s chicken recipe offers not just a delicious and satisfying meal, but also insight into mindful cooking and healthier eating habits. Its adaptable flavor profile and cultural significance make it a favorite across various palates. Embrace the opportunity to customize this dish to your preferences, experiment with diverse ingredients, and delight in the culinary journey. Explore additional cooking guides and elevate your kitchen prowess by visiting foodrecipestory.com.