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After a long week of meal prep and endless takeout menus, I craved something homemade that could rival my favorite restaurant dish. That’s when I discovered the joy of Ground General Tso’s Chicken—an easy, vibrant twist on a classic that transformed my weeknight routine. Can you imagine the warm, inviting aroma of ginger and garlic mingling with the savory sauce, bringing a hint of spice that ignites the senses?

What I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can serve it over fluffy rice, nestle it in lettuce wraps, or even enjoy it in a hearty grain bowl. Not only does it deliver bold flavors that impress guests, but it also comes together in a flash, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you just don’t feel like ordering in. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick cooking time, my Ground General Tso’s Chicken is sure to become a go-to favorite that you’ll make time and again!

Why is Ground General Tso’s Chicken a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its finest: This dish requires only basic cooking skills and a few pantry staples.
Flavor explosion: A blend of ginger, garlic, and unique sauces ensures every bite is packed with taste.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or as a grain bowl topping.
Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in a flash!
Crowd-pleaser: It’s a fantastic option for family dinners or entertaining guests. You’ll find that it rivals your favorite takeout without the hassle!

Ground General Tso’s Chicken Ingredients

• Bring this delightful dish to life with these simple ingredients!

For the Chicken
• Ground chicken – A lean protein that cooks quickly for a fast meal.
• Canned water chestnuts – Adds a delightful crunch and unique flavor to the dish.

For the Sauce
• Vegetable oil – Helps to sauté and enhance the flavors in the dish.
• Minced ginger – Brings warmth and brightness with its aromatic flavor.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – Offers a hint of heat to tantalize your taste buds.
• Garlic – The essential aromatic that enhances the depth of flavor.
• Rice vinegar – Adds the perfect tanginess that balances the dish beautifully.
• Soy sauce – Provides the salty umami flavor characteristic of Asian cuisine.
• Hoisin sauce – Adds sweetness and complexity to the overall taste.
• Water – Used to adjust the consistency of the sauce for the right texture.
• Sugar – A touch of sweetness to balance the savory elements.
• Cornstarch – Serves as a thickening agent, ensuring the sauce clings perfectly to your chicken.

Dive into the world of homemade goodness with this Ground General Tso’s Chicken recipe—your new favorite dish awaits!

How to Make Ground General Tso’s Chicken

Heat the oil: In a large pan, warm 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. This sets the stage for perfectly seared chicken and adds flavor to the dish.
Cook the chicken: Add 1 pound of ground chicken and diced water chestnuts. Allow it to cook until a good crust forms, about 5-7 minutes. Then, break it apart with a spatula and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
Add aromatics: Once the chicken is cooked through, stir in 1 tablespoon of minced ginger, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 10 seconds until fragrant.
Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 teaspoons of hoisin sauce, 1/4 cup water, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Whisk until smooth to create your General Tso’s sauce.
Combine and thicken: Pour the General Tso’s sauce into the pan with the chicken. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for just a few seconds, stirring until the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken beautifully.

Optional: Serve with chopped scallions or sesame seeds for extra flair.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Ground General Tso’s Chicken

Quality chicken: Use fresh ground chicken for best flavor and texture; frozen may lead to uneven cooking.
Crispiness factor: Don’t rush the browning process; allowing the chicken to sear properly gives it a delightful crust.
Balance flavors: Adjust sugar or vinegar based on your taste preferences—too much sugar can make it overly sweet.
Thickening sauce: Make sure to stir the cornstarch well into the sauce before adding it to avoid clumps.
Serving suggestions: Pair with steamed rice or crispy lettuce wraps for a complete meal that is both fresh and satisfying.

Make Ahead Options

These Ground General Tso’s Chicken preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can cook the ground chicken with the diced water chestnuts and refrigerate it for up to 3 days in an airtight container, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For the sauce, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, water, sugar, and cornstarch, then store it separately in the fridge for up to 5 days. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the chicken in a pan, add the sauce, and cook until heated through, which takes just minutes. This strategy not only saves time but also guarantees that your Ground General Tso’s Chicken is just as delicious and flavorful as if you made it fresh!

What to Serve with Ground General Tso’s Chicken?

Looking to create a delightful feast around your homemade delight?

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Its subtle fragrance and soft texture soak up the savory sauce beautifully, creating a harmonious balance with the spicy chicken.
Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites provide a contrast to the tender chicken, while their fresh fillings offer a burst of brightness in every bite.
Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly cooked in garlic and soy sauce, this green veggie adds a refreshing element and an appealing crunch, elevating your meal.
Steamed Broccoli: This classic pairing brings vibrant color to your plate; its natural earthiness complements the sweet-and-spicy flavors of the chicken perfectly.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: A refreshing blend of cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame oil cools the palate while adding zing to your dining experience.
Craft Beer or Iced Green Tea: Both drinks pair beautifully—try a crisp lager for balance or chilled green tea for a soothing touch alongside the spice.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy treat rounds out the meal, with its delightful contrast to the heat of the chicken.

Ground General Tso’s Chicken Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful dish and tailor it to your taste buds!

Spicy Kick: Add in sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha for a bold heat that adds excitement in every bite. The spicy notes will beautifully complement the savory sauce.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas during cooking for a colorful, crunchy addition. Not only do they enhance flavor, but they also add nutrition and texture!
Sugar-Free: Substitute the sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit for a low-calorie version that still satisfies your sweet cravings.
Gluten-Free: Replace regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to keep this dish friendly for gluten sensitive diners while packing in the same umami punch.
Extra Crunch: Consider adding a handful of roasted peanuts or cashews right at the end for a delightful contrast of textures. The crunchiness will elevate the entire dish!
Herb Infusion: Swap ginger with fresh basil or cilantro for a fragrant twist that creates a refreshing twist worthy of a sunny day. The burst of herbaceous flavor will brighten your plate!
Sweet and Sour: Mix in a tablespoon of pineapple chunks or a splash of pineapple juice for a sweet and tangy variation that’s perfect for those who love a hint of tropical flair.
Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or even tofu for a plant-based option, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this mouth-watering dish without compromise. Each protein brings its own unique flavor!

How to Store and Freeze Ground General Tso’s Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Ground General Tso’s Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until heated through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the pan to ensure the chicken remains moist and delicious.

Serving Freshness: To enjoy the flavors at their best, consume within 3 days if stored in the fridge.

Ground General Tso’s Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ground chicken?
Absolutely! When selecting ground chicken, look for meat that is light pink in color and has a fresh, clean smell. Avoid any packages that show discoloration or dark spots, as these are signs of spoilage.

How should I store leftover Ground General Tso’s Chicken?
To keep your delicious leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay good for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them on the stovetop or microwave until piping hot!

Can I freeze Ground General Tso’s Chicken?
Yes! For longer storage, freeze your Ground General Tso’s Chicken in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat and retain moisture, add a splash of water or broth when warming it up.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
Very! If you find that your sauce has thickened too much, simply add a small amount of water or chicken broth to thin it out. Gradually add the liquid while heating, stirring continuously, until you reach the desired consistency.

Is Ground General Tso’s Chicken safe for pets?
While it’s best to avoid sharing human food with pets, a tiny bite of plain cooked chicken can be safe for dogs. However, be cautious of ingredients like garlic and onion, which can be harmful to pets. Always consult your veterinarian if unsure.

What can I substitute if I have soy sauce allergies?
If you’re looking for alternatives due to soy sauce allergies, try using coconut aminos or tamari sauce for a non-soy option. Both will provide similar umami depth to your dish without triggering allergies!