Name: Air Fryer General Tso's Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons neutral oil; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1-2 teaspoons sriracha or chili garlic sauce; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for slurry); 2 tablespoons cold water (for slurry); 2 dried red chilies (optional); Cooked white or brown rice; Steamed broccoli florets or snap peas; 2 green onions, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Air Fryer General Tsos Chicken transforms a beloved takeout classic into a remarkably easy and healthier homemade masterpiece. Imagine perfectly crispy pieces of chicken, coated in that iconic sweet, savory, and subtly spicy sauce, all without the deep-frying fuss. This dish, a staple of Chinese-American cuisine, holds a special place in many hearts, known for its distinctive flavor profile that has captivated palates for decades. It’s the irresistible combination of tender chicken with an incredibly satisfying crunch, paired with a vibrant, flavorful glaze that makes it truly addictive. What makes this version even more appealing is the convenience and cleaner preparation offered by the air fryer. You get all the authentic taste and delightful texture you crave, but with significantly less oil and a quicker cooking time. Preparing Air Fryer General Tsos Chicken at home means you can enjoy this culinary icon whenever the craving strikes, customizing the spice level to your preference and reveling in the fresh, restaurant-quality results right from your own kitchen. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this incredible recipe!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 large egg
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons neutral oil (like vegetable or canola oil), plus extra for spraying the air fryer

For the General Tso’s Sauce:

1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 teaspoons sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (cornstarch slurry)
2 dried red chilies (optional, for authentic flavor and a hint of heat)

For Serving and Garnish:

Cooked white or brown rice
Steamed broccoli florets or snap peas
2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken for Your Air Fryer General Tsos Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken Pieces: First things first, let’s get our chicken ready. I like to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this Air Fryer General Tsos Chicken recipe because they stay incredibly tender and juicy, but chicken breasts work wonderfully too if you prefer leaner meat. Cut your chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces. Consistency in size is key here for even cooking in the air fryer. If some pieces are much larger or smaller than others, you’ll end up with some overcooked or undercooked bits. Take your time to make sure they are roughly the same.
Pat Dry and Marinade: Once cut, it’s crucial to pat the chicken pieces very dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can prevent the coating from sticking properly and will hinder that desirable crispy texture we’re aiming for. In a medium bowl, combine the egg, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk these together until well combined. Add the dried chicken pieces to this mixture, tossing them thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated. I like to let this sit for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to really penetrate the chicken. This initial marinade adds a foundational layer of flavor that truly elevates the final dish.
Create the Dredging Mixture: In a separate shallow dish or a gallon-sized resealable bag (my preferred method for easy coating and minimal mess), combine the 1/2 cup cornstarch and 1/4 cup all-purpose flour. Whisk or shake these dry ingredients together until they are thoroughly blended. The cornstarch is essential for achieving that super crispy crust, while the flour helps create a robust coating.
Coat the Chicken: Now, working in batches if necessary, transfer the marinated chicken pieces to the cornstarch and flour mixture. If using a bag, seal it and shake vigorously until all chicken pieces are completely coated. If using a dish, toss the chicken with tongs or your hands (wearing gloves is a good idea here!) to ensure full coverage. Make sure there are no wet spots peeking through. Each piece should look dry and pale. This heavy coating is what gives Air Fryer General Tsos Chicken its signature crispy exterior, which is so important when tossing with the sauce later. Lay the coated chicken pieces on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows any excess coating to fall off and prevents the chicken from sticking to the surface while you finish coating the rest.
Prepare for Air Frying: Drizzle the 2 tablespoons of neutral oil over the coated chicken pieces on the rack. Toss gently to ensure the oil lightly coats all surfaces. This step is critical because the oil helps the coating crisp up beautifully in the air fryer, mimicking the deep-fried texture without all the oil. It also helps prevent the chicken from drying out too much. You want a very thin, even layer of oil on each piece.

Making the General Tso’s Sauce:

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium saucepan or a deep skillet, combine the 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup rice vinegar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1-2 teaspoons sriracha (or chili garlic sauce), and 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil. I always taste the sriracha level here – if you like a kick, go for 2 teaspoons; if you prefer it milder, start with 1. This sauce is the heart of our Air Fryer General Tsos Chicken, so getting the balance right is important.
Add Optional Dried Chilies: If you’re using dried red chilies, add them to the saucepan now. They add a subtle, smoky heat and an authentic aroma without making the sauce overwhelmingly spicy. They’re optional, but I highly recommend them for that classic General Tso’s flavor profile.
Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking occasionally to dissolve the sugar and combine all the ingredients. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. You want the flavors to meld beautifully and the ginger and garlic to infuse thoroughly into the liquid. It’s a truly aromatic experience as the sauce begins to heat up.
Thicken the Sauce: While the sauce is simmering, prepare your cornstarch slurry by whisking 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Once the sauce in the saucepan has simmered for a few minutes, slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce while whisking continuously. Continue to whisk as the sauce thickens. It should become glossy and reach a consistency that lightly coats the back of a spoon. If it’s too thick, you can add a tiny bit more chicken broth; if it’s too thin, a bit more slurry can be added (make sure to mix it with water first!). Remove the sauce from the heat once it reaches your desired thickness. Set aside, but keep it warm if possible, or gently reheat before tossing with the chicken.

Air Frying the Chicken for the Best Air Fryer General Tsos Chicken:

Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for at least 5 minutes. Preheating is a game-changer for air frying; it ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately upon entering the basket, leading to a crispier exterior. Don’t skip this step!
Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with a non-stick cooking spray or brush with a little oil. Even with the oil on the chicken, a little extra protection helps prevent sticking, especially with sticky coatings.
Air Fry in Batches: This is perhaps the most important instruction for achieving perfectly crispy Air Fryer General Tsos Chicken. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of crisping it, leading to a soggy result. I usually do this in 2-3 batches, depending on the size of my air fryer. Give each piece a little space to breathe.
First Cooking Phase: Air fry the chicken for 8 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
Shake and Continue Frying: After 8 minutes, carefully open the air fryer basket and shake the chicken or flip each piece with tongs. This ensures even browning and crisping on all sides. Continue to air fry for another 6-10 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. Cooking times can vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and the size of your chicken pieces, so keep an eye on it. You’re looking for that beautiful, deep golden crispiness.
Repeat for Remaining Batches: Remove the cooked chicken and place it in a large bowl. Repeat the air frying process with any remaining batches, making sure to spray the basket again if needed. It’s tempting to try and fit it all in, but trust me, cooking in batches is worth the extra few minutes for superior results.

Combining and Serving Your Air Fryer General Tsos Chicken:

Toss with Sauce: Once all the chicken is air-fried to perfection and gathered in your large bowl, pour the warm General Tso’s sauce over it. Using tongs or a large spoon, gently toss the chicken until every piece is beautifully coated in the rich, glossy sauce. Work quickly here to maintain the chicken’s crispiness before it softens too much from the sauce. The contrast of the crispy exterior with the luscious sauce is what makes this Air Fryer General Tsos Chicken so irresistible.
Prepare Garnish: Thinly slice your green onions and have your sesame seeds ready. These garnishes add a fresh pop of color, a mild oniony bite, and a nutty finish that really completes the dish.
Serve Immediately: Transfer the Air Fryer General Tsos Chicken to serving plates or a large platter. I always serve this dish immediately while the chicken is still hot and crispy from the air fryer and the sauce is perfectly warm and clings beautifully to each piece.
Garnish and Enjoy: Sprinkle generously with the sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve alongside fluffy white or brown rice and steamed broccoli florets or snap peas for a complete and satisfying meal. The sweetness and tang of the General Tso’s sauce, combined with the crispy texture of the chicken, makes this dish a true weeknight winner. This homemade version of Air Fryer General Tsos Chicken rivals any takeout and is a much healthier option without sacrificing any flavor or texture.

Conclusion:

If there’s one recipe I truly believe deserves a permanent spot in your weekly rotation, it’s this incredible take on a beloved classic. What we’ve crafted together here isn’t just another meal; it’s a revelation, transforming what often feels like a restaurant-only indulgence into something effortlessly achievable in your own kitchen. I’m talking about that perfect balance of crispy, succulent chicken coated in a gloriously sticky, sweet, and savory sauce that truly sings on your palate. The genius of this method lies in its simplicity and efficiency, proving that you don’t need a deep fryer to achieve that coveted golden-brown, satisfyingly crunchy exterior. My aim was to deliver all the vibrant flavors and tantalizing textures you crave from a classic General Tso’s, but with the added benefits of being less messy, quicker to prepare, and undeniably lighter. That’s why this dish isn’t just good; it’s a game-changer, promising a burst of authentic, takeout-style satisfaction without any of the guilt or hassle. This recipe is a testament to how smart cooking appliances can elevate our home dining experience, making gourmet-level dishes accessible for any weeknight.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of creating this sensational dish, let’s talk about how to make it an even more unforgettable experience on your plate. For a traditional and utterly satisfying meal, I highly recommend serving your crispy chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice, allowing every grain to soak up that delectable sauce. If you prefer a nuttier, heartier option, brown rice or even quinoa makes for an excellent base. To round out the meal and add a pop of color and nutrition, steamed broccoli florets are a quintessential pairing, their freshness providing a perfect counterpoint to the rich sauce. Other fantastic vegetable additions include crisp-tender green beans, snap peas, or even a quick stir-fry of bell peppers and onions. For those feeling adventurous, why not use this delicious chicken as a filling for fresh lettuce wraps? The cool, crisp lettuce leaves provide a wonderful textural contrast and make for a lighter, more interactive dining experience. Don’t forget a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions as a garnish – they add both visual appeal and a delightful aromatic finish.

The beauty of cooking is in its adaptability, and this recipe is no exception. Feel free to unleash your inner chef and experiment with variations to truly make it your own. If you’re someone who loves a little extra kick, don’t hesitate to dial up the heat by adding more red pepper flakes to the sauce, or even a dash of your favorite hot chili oil right before serving. For a brighter, more citrusy note, a squeeze of fresh orange juice or a bit of orange zest can elevate the sauce to new heights, leaning into a more “orange chicken” profile while retaining the General Tso’s essence. And if you’re looking to sneak in more vegetables, feel free to air fry some diced bell peppers, carrots, or even water chestnuts alongside your chicken during the last few minutes of cooking, or stir-fry them quickly on the stovetop and toss them with the sauced chicken. You could even explore different protein options – this sauce base and air-frying method works wonderfully with tofu cubes for a vegetarian alternative or even shrimp for a seafood twist. The possibilities are truly endless once you have this incredible base recipe down.

So, there you have it – my heartfelt invitation to dive into the world of truly exceptional home cooking. This recipe for Air Fryer General Tsos Chicken is more than just instructions; it’s a promise of flavor, convenience, and pure culinary joy. I am genuinely excited for you to experience the magic of transforming simple ingredients into something so utterly delicious and deeply satisfying. I urge you to give this recipe a try; I have no doubt it will quickly become a cherished favorite in your household, just as it has in mine. And when you do, please don’t keep it a secret! I absolutely love hearing about your cooking adventures. Head over to the comments section below and share your thoughts, your successes, and any creative twists you added. Did you love the crispiness? Was the sauce perfectly balanced for your taste? Did you discover a new favorite side dish? Your feedback not only brightens my day but also helps our wonderful community of home cooks. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear all about your delicious journey!