Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken Made Easy

If you crave the bold, tangy flavors of Chinese takeout but want a homemade touch that’s fast and hassle-free, this Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken recipe is exactly what you need. It combines crispy chicken, a slightly sweet and spicy sauce, and the convenience of an Instant Pot to deliver a quick and flavorful Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken dinner that will become your weeknight favorite. From marinating to sauce-making, everything happens in a flash without compromising on taste or texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy weeknight meal: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days when you want something delicious fast.
• One-pot convenience: Uses the Instant Pot to handle cooking and sauce-making with minimal cleanup.
• Balanced flavors: Combines sweet, tangy, salty, and spicy notes in perfect harmony.
• Customizable heat level: Easily adjust the spice to suit your family or guests.
• Great for leftovers: Keeps well and tastes fantastic reheated.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, easy-to-find ingredients that each enhance the flavor, texture, or color of your Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken. From the tender chicken to the rich sauce, every component matters.

• Chicken thighs: Boneless, skinless, for juicy and tender bites that’re perfect for absorbing sauce.
• Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami base, essential for that classic flavor depth.
• Rice vinegar: Brings necessary acidity and brightness to balance the sweetness.
• Brown sugar: Provides caramelized sweetness that enhances the sauce’s richness.
• Garlic and ginger: Fresh aromatics that give warmth and a gentle spicy kick.
• Hoison sauce: Adds a hint of complexity and sweet-savory notes.
• Chili flakes or sauce: For that traditional spicy undertone, adjustable to taste.
• Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce for that glossy, restaurant-style finish.
• Green onions and sesame seeds: Perfect garnishes that add freshness and texture.

Variations for Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so you can tailor it to your preferences, dietary needs, or ingredient availability. Feel free to experiment with these easy swaps and additions.

• Protein swap: Use chicken breast for a leaner option or try tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Sweetener alternatives: Substitute honey or maple syrup for brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
• Heat adjustments: Swap chili flakes for sriracha, or leave them out for a milder version.
• Vegetable additions: Add broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers to boost the nutrition and color.
• Gluten-free version: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.

How to Make Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by cutting chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Toss them lightly in cornstarch to create a thin coating, which helps the chicken develop a slightly crispy texture once cooked in the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and add a splash of oil. Sauté minced garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, which infuses the base of the dish with vibrant flavor.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Add the coated chicken pieces to the pot. Cook for a few minutes, stirring frequently until the exterior develops a light golden crust. This step locks in moisture and enhances taste.

Step 4: Mix the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, and chili flakes. Pour this sauce mixture over the browned chicken in the Instant Pot.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid, set the Instant Pot to ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 5 minutes. This quick pressure cooking blends flavors deeply and cooks the chicken through without drying it out.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

Once cooking is complete, release pressure carefully. Stir in a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a little water) to thicken the sauce. Use the ‘Sauté’ function and cook for a few more minutes until glossy and thickened.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finish the dish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a fresh, crunchy contrast, then serve hot over steamed rice or your favorite side.

Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken

• Use boneless chicken thighs: They stay tender and juicy better than breasts under pressure cooking.
• Don’t skip browning: It adds a depth of flavor and better texture to the chicken pieces.
• Adjust sauce thickness: Cornstarch slurry can be added gradually to get the perfect consistency without lumps.
• Customize spice: Start light with chili flakes; you can always add more after cooking.
• Rest before serving: Let the dish sit for a few minutes off-heat to enhance the flavors before plating.

How to Serve Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken

Garnishes

Finishing with chopped green onions and sesame seeds not only adds visual appeal but also a fresh crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the saucy chicken.

Side Dishes

Serve this Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken with fluffy jasmine rice, steamed broccoli, or even fried rice to complete a balanced, satisfying meal that’s easy to enjoy family-style.

Creative Ways to Present

For a modern twist, try serving the chicken over cauliflower rice or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option, or pile it high on a bed of noodles tossed in sesame oil for a comforting dinner bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making even better lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for easy reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickened too much. Stir frequently to heat evenly without drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works but can dry out more easily. Cut into even pieces and avoid overcooking by slightly reducing pressure cook time if using breast.

Is it necessary to brown the chicken first?

While optional, browning the chicken adds texture and flavor, enriching the final dish significantly.

How spicy is Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken?

The heat level is adjustable; using less chili or removing seeds can make it milder, or add more chili flakes or hot sauce for extra kick.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos and use gluten-free hoisin sauce to maintain flavor.

What’s the best side dish to pair with this chicken?

Steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables complement the rich flavors perfectly, keeping the meal balanced and colorful.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken recipe is a total game-changer for busy cooks who love bold flavors but need dinner fast. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a mouthwatering dish that feels like takeout but is made with your own loving hands. Once you do, it just might become your new go-to weeknight favorite.

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