Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the egg, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sesame oil, and white pepper. Mix well to coat all chicken pieces. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This step is key for a flavorful general tsos chicken recipe.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken marinates, whisk together all sauce ingredients (chicken broth, 1/4 cup soy sauce, sugar, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, 1 tbsp cornstarch, chili garlic sauce, and 1 tsp sesame oil) in a small bowl until smooth. Set aside.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken: Place the 1 cup of cornstarch in a shallow dish. Working in batches, dredge the marinated chicken pieces in the cornstarch, ensuring they are fully coated. Shake off any excess cornstarch. This will give your general tsos chicken recipe its signature crispiness.
Step 4: First Fry the Chicken: Heat about 2-3 inches of oil in a large wok or deep skillet to 325°F (160°C). Carefully add about a third of the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes, or until lightly golden and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack set over paper towels to drain. Repeat with the remaining chicken. This is the first step to a truly crispy general tsos chicken recipe.
Step 5: Second Fry the Chicken: Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Return all the chicken to the hot oil and fry for another 1-2 minutes, or until deeply golden brown and extra crispy. This double-fry method ensures the best texture for your general tsos chicken recipe. Remove and place on the wire rack.
Step 6: Stir-Fry Aromatics: Carefully pour out most of the oil from the wok, leaving about 1 tbsp. Heat the remaining oil over medium-high heat. Add the dried red chilis, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 7: Add the Sauce and Chicken: Give the prepared sauce a quick re-whisk (cornstarch settles) and pour it into the wok. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 1-2 minutes. This creates the iconic glaze for your general tsos chicken recipe.
Step 8: Combine and Garnish: Add the crispy fried chicken to the wok and toss quickly to evenly coat all the pieces with the sauce. Remove from heat. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over steamed rice. Enjoy your homemade general tsos chicken recipe!