Name: Instant Pot General Tso's Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pound boneless chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces); 1 1/2 tablespoons peanut oil (or another kind of neutral-flavored oil); 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 1/2 cup chicken stock; 3 tablespoons dry sherry (or Chinese rice wine); 3 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (or more low-sodium); 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce; 2 teaspoons sesame oil; 3 tablespoons sugar (or to taste); 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; 2 scallions, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

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This Instant Pot General Tso’s chicken tastes like the famous Chinese take-out dish, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Skip the takeout and make this lighter, faster version of General Tso’s chicken right in your Instant Pot! With just a few minutes of prep—chopping chicken, mincing aromatics, and mixing a bold, savory-sweet sauce—you’ll have a restaurant-style dish on the table in under 30 minutes. This homemade version cuts back on oil without sacrificing flavor, and it’s easy to customize for a lower-carb meal. Serve it over rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.

Recipe Variation Ideas

Use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result. Add 2 minutes to the pressure cooking time.
Add steamed broccolini or snow peas after cooking for a built-in veggie side.
Include a teaspoon of orange zest or a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist.
Make it spicy by doubling the red pepper flakes or stirring in chili garlic sauce or chili crisp.
Use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a soy-free version.
Replace the sugar with honey, maple syrup, or allulose for sweetness with less refined sugar.
Stir in cashews or roasted peanuts at the end for added crunch.
Top with chopped cilantro or Thai basil for a fresh herbal finish.
Serve in lettuce wraps for a low-carb, hand-held option.

? How to Store and Reheat

Refrigerate leftover General Tso’s chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or zip-close bag. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat on the stovetop, warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce is too thick.

To reheat in the microwave: Transfer the chicken and sauce to a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely with a lid or damp paper towel. Microwave in 30 to 60-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through (165°F). Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.