Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1/4 cup soy sauce and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Toss to coat evenly and let marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: In a shallow dish, place the remaining 1 cup of cornstarch for breading. Dredge each marinated chicken piece thoroughly in the cornstarch, ensuring it’s completely coated. Shake off any excess.
Step 3: Heat the vegetable oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C).
Step 4: Carefully add the breaded chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per batch, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack set over paper towels to drain.
Step 5: While the chicken fries, prepare the sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, hoisin sauce, minced ginger, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and 1/4 cup water.
Step 6: Once all chicken is fried, carefully pour out most of the oil from the skillet, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons. Return the skillet to medium heat.
Step 7: Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the simmering sauce, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Step 8: Add the crispy fried chicken back into the thickened sauce. Toss quickly to coat every piece evenly. If using, stir in the optional sesame oil.
Step 9: Serve the General Tso’s Chicken immediately over cooked white rice, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy your delicious homemade general tsos chicken recipe!