Healthy General Tso’s Chicken
I’ve always had a fondness for Asian cuisine, and one of my all-time favorites is the irresistible Healthy General Tso’s Chicken. Growing up, I remember visiting local Chinese restaurants and eagerly anticipating the arrival of that sweet and spicy dish. The tantalizing aroma would fill the air, and I could hardly wait to dig in. Now, as an adult, I’ve taken it upon myself to recreate this beloved dish in a healthier way. It’s amazing how with a few simple swaps and fresh ingredients, I can whip up a meal that not only satisfies my cravings but also leaves me feeling good about my choices.
Making Healthy General Tso’s Chicken at home allows me to control the ingredients and adjust the flavors to suit my taste. I love the vibrant colors of the dish, from the golden-brown chicken to the bright green scallions that add a pop of freshness. Each bite is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and just a hint of heat, making it a well-rounded meal that I can enjoy any day of the week. Whether it’s a casual dinner for my family or a special occasion, this dish always impresses.
One of the best parts about cooking the Healthy General Tso’s Chicken is the fun of bringing everyone together. I love to serve it over fluffy cauliflower rice, which is a wonderful low-carb alternative that soaks up all that delicious sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food that feels indulgent yet fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the joy it brings to the table!
Recipe Snapshot
22 mins
10 mins
12 mins
Easy
320 kcal
31 g
Keto, Whole30, Gluten-Free
15 g
Cutting Board, Large Pot, Skillet, Grater, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Peeler, Frying Pan
What Sets This Healthy General Tso’s Chicken Apart
Healthier Ingredients
What I truly love about my version of Healthy General Tso’s Chicken is the conscious choice of ingredients. By swapping out traditional hoisin sauce for a gluten-free version and opting for arrowroot starch instead of cornstarch, I can still achieve that crispy texture. These small changes make a significant impact on the overall healthiness of the dish.
Easy to Prepare
Another aspect that makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity. In under thirty minutes, you can create a flavorful dish that rivals takeout. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. You don’t need any fancy equipment or techniques; just a skillet and your favorite ingredients!
Flavor Explosion
The blend of sweet and spicy flavors in Healthy General Tso’s Chicken is truly a culinary delight. The combination of coconut hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil creates a sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It’s sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of heat from the red pepper flakes. Each bite is a delightful surprise!
Customizable
This recipe is incredibly versatile. If you want to make it vegetarian, you can easily substitute the chicken with tofu or your favorite vegetables. It’s a fantastic way to cater to different dietary preferences while still enjoying the same flavors. You can adjust the level of sweetness or spiciness to your liking, ensuring every plate is just perfect.
Great for Meal Prep
If you’re someone who likes to meal prep, then this Healthy General Tso’s Chicken is for you! It stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Having it ready to go makes it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Family-Friendly
This dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike. The familiar flavors of General Tso’s Chicken are loved by many, and my family always looks forward to it. It’s a great way to introduce new ingredients while still keeping the meal enjoyable for everyone. It’s comforting, familiar, and delicious!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Healthy General Tso’s Chicken
When it comes to creating a delicious Healthy General Tso’s Chicken, the ingredients play a pivotal role. Each one contributes to the overall flavor profile and texture of the dish. From the tender chicken to the aromatic ginger and garlic, every element is essential in crafting this delightful meal.
- 1-1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces: This lean protein forms the base of the dish, providing a satisfying texture and flavor.
- ¼ cup arrowroot starch: A gluten-free alternative to cornstarch that helps achieve a crispy coating on the chicken.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the flavor of the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil: A healthy oil for sautéing that has a high smoke point and rich flavor.
- 3 scallions, sliced thin, whites and greens separated: Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor to the dish.
- 1 inch piece ginger, peeled and grated: Brings warmth and a zesty kick to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
- ¼ cup coconut hoisin sauce: A healthier take on traditional hoisin sauce, providing sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Adds acidity and brightness to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons coconut aminos: A soy sauce alternative that offers a similar umami flavor without the gluten.
- 2 tablespoons coconut sugar: A natural sweetener that balances the dish’s flavors.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Adds a touch of sweetness that complements the other ingredients.
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil: Enhances the flavor with nutty undertones.
- 1 teaspoon dried bird’s eye chili or crushed red pepper flakes: Provides heat and spice to the dish.
- Cauliflower rice: A healthy serving option that replaces traditional rice, making the dish low-carb.
- Sesame seeds: For garnish, adding a touch of crunch and nutty flavor.
The Process for Making Healthy General Tso’s Chicken
Cooking Healthy General Tso’s Chicken is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a fantastic meal ready in no time.
- Start by cutting the chicken into 1-inch pieces and placing them inside a large bowl. Add the arrowroot starch, along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken pieces are well coated, ensuring that they will fry up crispy.
- Next, heat the avocado oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken to the skillet. Brown the chicken on both sides, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause steaming rather than browning.
- When the chicken is golden brown, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the white parts of the scallions, ginger, and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until fragrant and aromatic.
- Now, it’s time to introduce the sauce! Pour in the coconut hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, coconut aminos, coconut sugar, honey, sesame oil, and dried bird’s eye chili or crushed red pepper flakes. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet; these add great flavor!
- Once the sauce is bubbling and has thickened slightly, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce and cook for an additional minute until the chicken is heated through and fully coated.
- To serve, place the hot, sticky Healthy General Tso’s Chicken over a bed of cauliflower rice. Top with the green parts of the scallions for color and sprinkle with sesame seeds for an added crunch. Enjoy your homemade takeout!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use a thermometer: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Adjust spice levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of dried bird’s eye chili or omit it entirely.
- Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to maintain juiciness.
- High-quality ingredients: Opt for fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor.
Making Adjustments
Cooking is all about making it your own! Here are some tips that can enhance your experience with Healthy General Tso’s Chicken.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Just reheat before serving.
- Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a simple salad to balance the flavors.
- Variations: For a twist, try adding snow peas or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.
- Meal prep: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge to make cooking even quicker on busy nights.
How to Enjoy Healthy General Tso’s Chicken
Serving Healthy General Tso’s Chicken is all about creating an enjoyable dining experience. Here are some practical ideas:
- Over cauliflower rice: Serve the chicken on top of a generous scoop of cauliflower rice for a healthy, low-carb option.
- With steamed broccoli: Pair it with steamed broccoli to add color and nutrients to your meal.
- As a lunch meal prep: Pack it in lunch containers with your choice of rice or vegetables for a satisfying midday meal.
- Garnished with scallions: Don’t forget to sprinkle extra sesame seeds and sliced scallions on top for added texture and flavor.
- Ideal for gatherings: This dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests; serve it in a large bowl for everyone to dig into.
- Comfort food: It’s a great option for cozy nights at home when you’re craving something warm and hearty.
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Healthy General Tso’s Chicken is a delightful twist on a classic dish that combines flavor, health, and convenience. With its vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s easy to whip up and perfect for any day of the week. Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade cooking while indulging in a dish that brings joy!
Healthy General Tso’s Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces and place inside of a large bowl with arrowroot starch and a big pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken fully.
- Heat avocado oil in a large, heavy skillet. Once hot, brown chicken on both sides, in batches if necessary, for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken and set aside. To the pan, add the white parts of the scallion, ginger, and garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add in the coconut hoisin, rice vinegar, coconut aminos, coconut sugar, honey, sesame oil, and dried bird’s eye chili or crushed red pepper flakes. Increase heat and bring the mixture to a boil, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom of the skillet.
- Once the sauce has boiled and thickened up, add back the chicken and cook through until hot, about 1 more minute.
- Serve chicken immediately with sauce from the skillet over cauliflower rice and top with green parts of the scallions and sesame seeds.
