General Tso’s Chicken

 This Healthier General Tso's Chicken is made with tender chicken breast, a host of authentic aromatics and spices, and sweetened with pure maple syrup.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. raw chicken breast, boneless, skinless, cut into 2-inch pieces

  • 2 Tbsp. + 1 tsp. cornstarch, divided use

  • ¼ tsp. sea salt

  • 1 tsp. sesame oil

  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

  • 1 thin slice fresh ginger, peeled, finely chopped

  • 2 Tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce

  • ½ cup low sodium chicken broth

  • 1 Tbsp. rice wine vinegar

  • 2 Tbsp. tomato paste, no added sugar

  • 2 tsp. hoisin sauce

  • 1 tsp. pure maple syrup (or raw honey)

  • 2 Tbsp. cold water

  • 2 green onions, sliced

  • 1 Tbsp. toasted sesame seeds

  • 1 Tbsp. dried Thai chiles (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375° F.

  2. Line baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.

  3. Place chicken, 2 Tbsp. cornstarch, and salt in a medium bowl; toss until well coated. 

  4. Place chicken in a single layer on prepared baking sheet; bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until cooked through. 

  5. While chicken is baking, heat oil, garlic, and ginger in large skillet over medium heat; cook for 1 to 2 minutes.  

  6. Add soy sauce, broth, vinegar, tomato paste, hoisin sauce, and maple syrup. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook for 4 to 5 minutes. 

  7. Dissolve remaining 1 tsp. cornstarch in cold water; add to soy sauce mixture. Gently boil, stirring frequently, for another 3 to 4 minutes, or until sauce begins to thicken.

  8. Add cooked chicken to sauce, coating thoroughly. 

  9. Serve chicken sprinkled with sesame seeds, green onions, and chiles (if desired).