How to Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken: The Ultimate Guide for Crispy Perfection

Craving crispy, flavorful General Tso’s chicken but don’t want the deep-frying mess? We’ve got you covered! This blog post will guide you through how to air fryer General Tso’s chicken, offering a healthier and equally delicious alternative to the traditional method.

Why Air Fryer General Tso’s?

The air fryer is a kitchen game-changer, allowing you to achieve crispy, golden-brown results with minimal oil. This makes it the perfect tool for creating your favorite takeout dishes at home, including General Tso’s chicken. Here’s why you should consider air-frying your next batch:

• Reduced Fat and Calories: Air frying significantly reduces the amount of oil used, resulting in a healthier and lower-calorie meal.
• Crispy Perfection: The hot air circulating in the air fryer creates a crispy exterior, mirroring the texture of deep-fried chicken.
• Convenience: Air fryers are quick and easy to use, making this recipe a breeze.
• Less Mess: No more hot oil splatters or messy clean-up – air frying keeps your kitchen tidy.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spiciness)

For the Batter:

• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup water

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
2. Make the Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, and water until smooth.
3. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess batter.
4. Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the battered chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overcrowd. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Prepare the Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, brown sugar, cornstarch, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
6. Combine and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the sauce to coat evenly. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure there’s enough space between the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket for even cooking.
• Flip for Even Browning: Flipping the chicken halfway through cooking ensures a crispy exterior on all sides.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model and the size of the chicken pieces.
• Sauce Variations: Feel free to experiment with different sauce ingredients to create your own unique flavor combinations.
• Serve with Sides: Pair your air-fried General Tso’s chicken with your favorite sides, such as steamed rice, fried rice, or egg noodles.

Beyond the Basic Recipe:

Add a Kick: For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few more red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Sweet and Tangy: To balance the savory flavors, add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice to the sauce.
Veggie Boost: Combine your air-fried chicken with stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or peppers for a complete meal.

A Final Word on Your Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken

This air-fried rendition of General Tso’s chicken is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy this classic dish without the guilt of deep frying. The crispy chicken, flavorful sauce, and versatility make it a winner for any occasion. So, grab your air fryer and get ready to experience the joy of homemade General Tso’s chicken.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may cook faster. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: What if I don’t have cornstarch?
A: You can use all-purpose flour as a substitute for cornstarch. However, the chicken may not be as crispy.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. However, it’s best to air fry the chicken right before serving to ensure optimal crispiness.
Q: Can I freeze leftover General Tso‘s chicken?
A: Yes, but the chicken may become less crispy after freezing. It’s best to reheat it in the air fryer or oven to crisp it up again.