The Ultimate Gluten Free General Tsos Chicken

Craving the bold, sweet, and spicy flavors of General Tso’s Chicken but need a reliable gluten-free option? Look no further! This homemade Gluten-Free General Tso’s Chicken recipe delivers all the crispy, saucy goodness you love from your favorite Chinese takeout, perfected for a gluten-free diet. Forget soggy imitations or bland substitutes; our recipe ensures a truly authentic and deeply satisfying experience right in your own kitchen. Imagine tender, shallow-fried chicken pieces coated in a glossy, vibrant sauce, ready to be piled high over fluffy rice and vibrant stir-fried vegetables. It’s the ideal meal for busy weeknights, relaxed weekend dinners, or any time that craving for irresistible, gluten-free Asian comfort food strikes.

For many years, General Tso’s Chicken and Orange Chicken were staples in my takeout rotation. Discovering the need to adopt a gluten-free lifestyle meant saying goodbye to these beloved dishes—or so I thought. The journey to recreate these iconic flavors, making them not just “as good” but genuinely *better* than takeout, has been incredibly rewarding. This Gluten-Free General Tso’s Chicken recipe is a testament to that journey. We achieve that coveted crispy, crunchy texture without the hassle of deep-frying, using a clever combination of cornstarch and gluten-free all-purpose flour for the chicken coating. Each succulent piece is then enveloped in a rich, glossy sauce, meticulously balanced with tamari (a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce), rice vinegar, fresh garlic, and pungent ginger. The result is a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and spicy notes that dances on your palate. Best of all, this incredible meal comes together quickly in a single skillet, transforming a once elusive takeout favorite into an accessible, comforting, and incredibly satisfying homemade dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free General Tso’s Chicken

This recipe isn’t just a gluten-free alternative; it’s a superior culinary experience. Here’s why this General Tso’s Chicken will become a new family favorite:

• Unrivaled Crispy Texture: Our shallow-frying method, combined with a perfectly balanced cornstarch and gluten-free flour coating, ensures each piece of chicken is wonderfully crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender within. You won’t miss the deep fryer!
• Authentic Flavor Profile: The sauce is a masterpiece of sweet, savory, and spicy. Crafted with high-quality gluten-free ingredients like tamari, fresh ginger, and garlic, it perfectly replicates the complex, irresistible taste of traditional General Tso’s.
• Healthier & Homemade: By making it at home, you have complete control over the ingredients, reducing excess oil, sugar, and sodium often found in restaurant versions. It’s a guilt-free indulgence!
• Quick & Easy: Designed for efficiency, this dish comes together in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will adore the sweet and tangy sauce and crispy chicken. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit everyone’s preference.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a special gathering, or a solo craving, this dish elevates any meal into a memorable occasion.

Essential Gluten-Free Cooking Tips for Success

Achieving restaurant-quality results at home, especially with gluten-free ingredients, often comes down to a few key techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your General Tso’s Chicken is a resounding success every time:

• Ensure Your Oil is Perfectly Hot: This is perhaps the most critical step for crispy chicken. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken coating will absorb too much oil, resulting in a greasy, soggy texture rather than a delightful crisp. To test, sprinkle a tiny pinch of your cornstarch-flour mixture into the oil. It should immediately sizzle vigorously and float to the surface. If it sinks or remains quiet, your oil needs more time to heat up. Maintain medium-high heat throughout the frying process.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces of chicken at once will drastically lower the oil’s temperature. This leads to steamed chicken rather than fried, preventing that beautiful golden-brown crust from forming. Instead, fry the chicken in batches, giving each piece ample space to cook evenly and crisp up properly. Patience here pays off immensely in terms of texture.
• Master the Sauce Consistency: The perfect General Tso’s sauce should be glossy, thick enough to cling to the chicken, but not overly gluey or pasty. You’ll know the sauce is ready when it lightly coats the back of a spoon, leaving a thin, even layer. If it’s too thin, allow it to simmer for another minute or two after adding the cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly. If it becomes too thick, you can thin it out slightly with a tablespoon or two of gluten-free chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Choose the Right Gluten-Free Flour: While many gluten-free all-purpose flour blends work well, opt for one that contains xanthan gum or add a small pinch separately (about ¼ teaspoon per cup of flour) if your blend doesn’t. Xanthan gum helps with binding and mimics the elasticity of gluten, contributing to a better coating texture.
• Bite-Sized Pieces are Key: Cutting your chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces ensures even cooking and allows for maximum surface area to absorb that delicious sauce. Aim for pieces roughly 1-inch in size.
• Prepare Everything Ahead: Chinese cooking moves quickly. Have all your ingredients prepped—chicken cut and coated, sauce whisked, garlic and ginger minced—before you even turn on the stove. This mise en place approach will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Gluten-Free General Tso’s Chicken

By: Sabine Venier

Servings: 4 servings

Prep: 20 mins

Cook: 20 mins

Total: 40 mins

Pin Recipe
Share by Email
Print Recipe

Better than takeout, this gluten-free General Tso’s chicken features crispy shallow-fried chicken tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce. An easy, takeout-style dinner made right at home.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tbsp gluten-free soy sauce, or tamari
• 2-3 tbsp avocado oil or other neutral oil for frying

For the Sauce

• ½ cup gluten-free chicken broth
• ¼ cup gluten-free soy sauce, or tamari
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce, gluten-free
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
• ½-1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, adjust to taste
• 1 tbsp cornstarch, (for slurry)
• 2 tbsp water, (for slurry)

Optional Garnish

• 2 green onions, sliced
• sesame seeds

Units provided are US Customary.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Coating: In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine ½ cup cornstarch, ½ cup gluten-free all-purpose flour, ½ tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are evenly distributed, creating your crispy coating mixture.
2. Dip chicken pieces into the egg mixture, then dredge in the cornstarch mixture to coat evenly.
3. Prepare the Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 2 tbsp gluten-free soy sauce or tamari until well combined. This mixture will help the dry coating adhere to the chicken.
4. Coat the Chicken: Add 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into uniform bite-size pieces (about 1-inch cubes), to the egg mixture. Toss well to ensure each chicken piece is thoroughly coated. Working one piece at a time, transfer the chicken from the egg wash to the cornstarch mixture, making sure each piece is completely covered and lightly pressed to adhere the coating. Set aside on a clean plate or baking sheet.
5. Shallow-Fry the Chicken: Heat 2-3 tbsp of avocado oil or another neutral oil (like grapeseed or canola) in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Remember the tip about hot oil: test with a pinch of flour. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for 4 to 5 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until each piece is golden brown and delightfully crispy. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil, and repeat this process with the remaining chicken.
6. Build the Sauce Base: Carefully wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel, removing any residual oil or chicken bits. This prevents burning and ensures a clean sauce flavor. Add 1 tsp sesame oil to the skillet and place it over medium heat. Sauté 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tbsp of minced fresh ginger, and ½ to 1 tsp of crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to your preferred spice level). Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the aromatics are fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
7. Whisk the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup gluten-free chicken broth, ¼ cup gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 tbsp brown sugar, and 2 tbsp gluten-free hoisin sauce until all ingredients are fully combined and the sugar has dissolved.
8. Simmer and Thicken the Sauce: Pour the whisked sauce mixture into the skillet with the aromatics. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat. In a separate tiny bowl, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir this slurry into the simmering sauce. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes until the sauce visibly thickens and achieves a beautiful, glossy sheen.
9. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return all the fried chicken pieces to the pan with the thickened sauce. Gently toss the chicken until every piece is thoroughly coated in the sweet, spicy, and savory sauce.
10. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the finished General Tso’s chicken generously with freshly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve hot immediately. Enjoy this homemade, takeout-style delight!

Notes

• If chicken gets too soggy: To restore crispiness before saucing, you can briefly re-crisp the chicken in a hot oven (around 375°F/190°C) or an air fryer for 5-7 minutes.
• If sauce is too thin: After adding the cornstarch slurry, continue to simmer the sauce for a bit longer, stirring frequently, until it reaches your desired thickness. Be patient, it will thicken.
• Too spicy? Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes and fresh ginger to your personal heat preference. You can omit the red pepper flakes entirely for a milder version.
• Make Ahead Tip: You can prepare the chicken coating and fry the chicken ahead of time. Store the fried chicken in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours or refrigerate. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to crisp up before tossing in freshly made sauce. The sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and thin with a little broth if needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 430kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 33gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0.03gCholesterol: 151mgSodium: 1944mgPotassium: 573mgFiber: 2gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 255IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 56mgIron: 3mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Tried this recipe?
Mention @mamaknowsglutenfree or tag #mamaknowsglutenfree!

Step-by-Step Visual Guide: Crafting Your Gluten-Free General Tso’s Chicken

Embark on a culinary adventure with this visual, step-by-step guide to creating the ultimate Gluten-Free General Tso’s Chicken. Each image provides a clear reference to ensure your homemade takeout experience is seamless and delicious.

Elevate Your Meal: Delicious Serving Suggestions

This Gluten-Free General Tso’s Chicken is fantastic on its own, but it truly shines when served as part of a complete homemade takeout-style feast. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

• Fluffy Rice: The classic pairing! Serve your General Tso’s chicken over a bed of freshly steamed white rice, brown rice, or even jasmine rice. The mild flavor of the rice perfectly soaks up the rich sauce.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A quick and healthy addition. Sauté some broccoli florets, snap peas, sliced bell peppers, carrots, or bok choy in a touch of sesame oil and garlic until tender-crisp. You can even add a splash of gluten-free soy sauce for extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free Appetizers: Start your meal with some delightful gluten-free appetizers. Consider gluten-free egg rolls or gluten-free crab rangoons to complete the authentic takeout experience.
• Noodles: Instead of rice, try serving it with gluten-free rice noodles or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a lighter option.
• Fresh Salad: A simple side salad with a light sesame-ginger dressing can offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.

Storage Instructions and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of this Gluten-Free General Tso’s Chicken are just as delicious, if not more so, the next day! Proper storage and reheating will ensure you maintain its quality and taste.

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, store the chicken and sauce separately if possible, especially if you anticipate wanting maximum crispiness upon reheating.
• Reheating in a Skillet (for best texture): To revive the crispiness, reheat the chicken in a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a small splash of water or gluten-free chicken broth. Once warmed, add the sauce and stir until it loosens and coats the chicken evenly. This method helps maintain a good texture for the chicken.
• Reheating in an Air Fryer (for ultimate crispiness): If you want the chicken to be as crispy as possible, reheat the chicken pieces separately in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-8 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Gently reheat the sauce in a separate saucepan on the stove or in the microwave. Toss the crispy chicken with the warm sauce just before serving.
• Reheating in the Microwave (for convenience): For a quick reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in short intervals (30-60 seconds), stirring between each one, until warmed through. Be aware that this method might make the chicken less crispy, but it’s perfect for a speedy meal.
• Freezing: While technically possible, freezing this dish is not recommended as the chicken’s crispy coating and the sauce’s texture can degrade significantly upon thawing and reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days from the refrigerator.

More Delightful Gluten-Free Asian Dinner Ideas

If you’ve enjoyed this General Tso’s Chicken, you’re in for a treat! Explore more of our fantastic gluten-free Asian-inspired recipes that bring diverse and delicious flavors to your dinner table:

• Gluten-Free Sweet and Sour Chicken: A vibrant and tangy classic, made perfectly gluten-free.
• Gluten-Free Fried Rice: The ultimate comfort food side dish, versatile and easy to customize.
• Gluten-Free Pad Thai: A taste of Thailand with savory, sweet, and sour notes in every bite.
• Dairy-Free Butter Chicken: A rich and creamy Indian-inspired dish, completely dairy-free for those with sensitivities.

Each of these recipes is crafted to provide a truly satisfying and safe dining experience, proving that a gluten-free diet doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or variety. Happy cooking!