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This Air Fryer General Tso's Chicken delivers restaurant-quality results with a perfect balance of sweet, savory and spicy flavors. The crispy coating and tender meat rival traditional takeout, while the homemade sauce creates an irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen. This healthier adaptation has quickly become a family favorite.
Key Ingredients
The secret to achieving authentic flavor starts with selecting the right ingredients. A careful blend of aromatics and seasonings creates that signature taste profile we all know and love.
Essential Components
- Chicken: Boneless thighs provide optimal tenderness
- Aromatics: Fresh ginger and minced garlic
- Coating: Eggs and cornstarch for crispiness
- Sauce Base: Soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar
- Seasonings: Dried chilies, green onions, sesame seeds
Marination Method
Begin by marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Allow at least 30 minutes for the flavors to penetrate the meat, though longer marination will enhance the taste further.
Coating Technique
The key to achieving the perfect crispy exterior lies in the double-coating process. Dip each marinated piece in beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with cornstarch, ensuring even coverage while maintaining a light touch.
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Air Fryer Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Cook the coated chicken pieces in batches, ensuring they're arranged in a single layer. The hot circulating air creates a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
Sauce Preparation
While the chicken cooks, prepare the signature sauce. Toast aromatics until fragrant, then combine with liquid ingredients. Simmer until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency that will coat the chicken beautifully.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve the finished dish over steamed jasmine rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. For a complete meal, pair with steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables.
Storage Tips
The cooked chicken maintains its texture well when stored properly. Keep leftover sauce separate and reheat both components gently. The dish can be frozen for up to three months.
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Recipe Notes
For best results, ensure the air fryer is fully preheated before cooking. Adjust sauce thickness by simmering longer if needed. Control spice levels by varying the amount of dried chilies used.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I go with chicken breast instead of thighs?
- Sure! Breasts are fine, though thighs stay juicier. If using breasts, just keep an eye on the timing—it can dry out more easily.
- → What’s the trick to keeping it crispy?
- Don’t let the chicken pieces overlap in the air fryer—space them out. Toss them with the sauce only right before serving.
- → How do I make it milder?
- Cut back or skip the red chili flakes if you don’t like heat. For a sweeter version, try adding some extra brown sugar to the sauce.
- → What’s the best way to store leftovers?
- Pop everything into a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. If you want it crispy again, store the sauce separate from the chicken.
- → Can I freeze it?
- Yes, freeze the plain cooked chicken (without the sauce). It’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw, refry, and make a fresh batch of sauce when ready.
Conclusion
Ditch delivery and recreate General Tso Chicken in a healthier way. This recipe has air-fried chicken made perfectly crunchy, paired with a sweet and spicy sauce.