Air Fryer General Tso's Chicken

Name: Air Fryer General Tso's Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 600 g chicken thighs (boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces); 2 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 2 tbsp hoisin sauce; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp ginger (minced); 1 tsp garlic (minced); 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)

35 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Crispy, tangy, and slightly spicy General Tso's Chicken made healthier in an air fryer.

Prep

20 min

Cook

15 min

Total

35 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

General Tso's Chicken is a beloved Chinese-American dish known for its crispy texture and tangy, slightly spicy sauce. Traditionally deep-fried, this version uses an air fryer to create a healthier yet equally delicious meal. By air frying, you retain the iconic crispiness of General Tso's Chicken while cutting down on oil, making it a guilt-free indulgence. This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy their favourite takeout at home with a healthier twist. Whether you're a fan of Chinese cuisine or just love a good crispy chicken dish, this air fryer method will become a staple in your kitchen.

Instructions

Prepare the chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with cornstarch, soy sauce, and vegetable oil. Toss to coat evenly.

Pro tip: Marinate for at least 10 minutes for added flavour.

Preheat the air fryer

Set the air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Preheating ensures even cooking and crispiness.

Cook the chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Pro tip: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

Make the sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sugar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Stir until sugar dissolves.

Pro tip: Adjust sugar to taste if you prefer a sweeter sauce.

Thicken the sauce

Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened.

Pro tip: Remove from heat as soon as it thickens to prevent overcooking.

Combine chicken and sauce

Toss the cooked chicken in the sauce until well coated. Serve immediately.

Pro tip: Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for garnish.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use chicken thighs for juicier results.
Preheat the air fryer for optimal crispiness.
Toss the chicken in sauce just before serving to maintain crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make air fryer General Tso's chicken crispy?

Coat the chicken in cornstarch and cook in a preheated air fryer at 200°C (390°F) for optimal crispiness.

How long do you air fry General Tso's chicken?

Air fry the chicken for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crispy.

Can I make General Tso's chicken ahead of time?

Yes, cook the chicken and make the sauce separately. Store them in the fridge and combine before serving.

What is a good side dish for General Tso's chicken?

Steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables pair well with General Tso's chicken.

What is the calorie count for air fryer General Tso's chicken?

Each serving contains approximately 480 calories.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Air Fryer General Tso's Chicken with steamed jasmine rice or a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions can add an extra layer of flavour. This dish can be prepared ahead of time; simply store the cooked chicken and sauce separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes, then toss in the sauce before serving.

Nutrition per serving

480

Calories

31g

Protein

25g

Fat

See the whole store

Kitchen Appliances · Food Steamers

OVENTE 2 Tier Electric Food Steamer for Cooking Vegetables, Stainless Steel Base, Stackable and Dishwasher Safe Baskets, 400W with Auto Shutoff and 60-Minute Timer, 5 Quart Capacity, Silver FS62S

$33.00

Kitchen Appliances · Air Fryers

Chefman Air Fryer – 4 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy Meals, Features Hi-Fry Technology for Extra Crisp, Easy-View Window, Touch Controls with 4 Presets, Nonstick & Dishwasher Safe Basket - Black

$79.99

Pit Boss Grills

Mahogany Series 1000

$1149.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.