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General Tso's Chicken is a beloved dish that has become a staple in Chinese-American cuisine, known for its sweet and savory flavor profile, crispy texture, and vibrant sauce. This dish is often one of the first items that comes to mind when you think of takeout, making it a favorite among diners across the United States. However, if you’re looking to break away from the traditional preparation and add a creative twist to your culinary repertoire, you’ll want to try our Crunchy Cocoa General Tso’s Chicken.

Homemade General Tso’s Chicken Recipe

Discover a delicious twist on a classic favorite with Crunchy Cocoa General Tso’s Chicken. This innovative recipe combines the beloved savory and sweet flavors of General Tso's with the rich depth of cocoa powder, creating a dish that surprises and delights. With its crispy texture and vibrant sauce, this homemade version is perfect for family dinners or impressing guests. Get ready to elevate your culinary skills with this unique take on a staple of Chinese-American cuisine!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup cornstarch

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

2 large eggs, beaten

Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Sauce:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 inch piece ginger, grated

1/4 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup chicken broth

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

2 tablespoons hoisin sauce

1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust for heat preference)

2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for a unique twist!)

1 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken)

For Garnish:

Sesame seeds

Chopped green onions

Instructions
 

Prep the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the beaten eggs, coating the chicken well. In a separate bowl, place the cornstarch. Dredge the chicken pieces in cornstarch, ensuring they are fully coated.

    Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F), carefully add the chicken in batches, ensuring not to crowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

      Make the Sauce: In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in soy sauce, chicken broth, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, chili paste, cocoa powder, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

        Thicken the Sauce: Once the sauce is simmering, stir in the cornstarch-water mixture gradually, allowing it to thicken while stirring continuously. You want a glossy, slightly thickened sauce.

          Combine and Serve: Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss well to coat all pieces evenly. Ensure the chicken is heated through.

            Garnish: Transfer the General Tso’s Chicken to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a fresh touch.

              Enjoy! Serve your Crunchy Cocoa General Tso’s Chicken hot over a bed of steamed rice or with a side of broccoli for a delightful meal.

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4