General chicken is a popular Chinese takeout dish consisting of battered and fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sauce. It’s a beloved menu item at many Chinese restaurants across the United States and beyond. While not an authentic Chinese dish, general chicken has its roots in the Hunan province of China. It was likely adapted from the traditional Hunan chicken dish and modified over time into the amalgamation of flavors and textures that we know today. In this article, we’ll explore the history, ingredients, and preparation of general chicken, as well as its popularity and variations.
History and Origins
The origins of general chicken can be traced back to Hunan province in southeastern China. Hunan cuisine is known for its liberal use of garlic, chili peppers, and vinegar, creating spicy and boldly flavored dishes. One classic Hunan dish is simply called “Hunan chicken,” consisting of cubed chicken that is marinated, fried, then cooked with chilis, garlic, and other seasonings. This flavor profile was likely the inspiration for general chicken.
Adaptation in the United States
The dish we now know as general chicken was adapted from Hunan chicken and modified for American tastes over time. It first started appearing on the menus of Chinese restaurants in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s. To appeal to American diners, it was made less spicy and the sauce was given a sweeter, thicker texture. The chicken was also dredged in cornstarch and egg white and fried for extra crispiness. These adaptations resulted in the signature crispy, sticky, and sweet sauce that coats the chicken in the Americanized general chicken.
Naming and Spread in Popularity
There are a few theories about how the name “general chicken” came about:
- It was named after General Tso, another popular Chinese chicken dish in the U.S. The two dishes may have become conflated over time.
- It was named in honor of General Zhou Enlai of China, who was beloved by Americans.
- The name was chosen to sound appetizing and exotic to American customers.
Whatever its origins, the name stuck and general chicken grew to become one of the most popular Chinese dishes in the U.S. It’s now a menu staple across the country, beloved for its crispy fried chicken, sweet sauce, and slight spike of garlic and ginger. It’s also been adapted globally, appearing on Chinese takeout menus in Canada, the UK, Australia, and beyond.
Ingredients
While recipes can vary slightly, the core ingredients in general chicken are:
Chicken
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thighs, or a mix
– Cornstarch
– Egg white
– Salt
Sauce
– Soy sauce
– Rice vinegar
– Brown sugar
– Chicken broth
– Garlic
– Ginger
– Chili garlic sauce or chili paste
– Cornstarch slurry
Vegetables
– Onions
– Bell peppers
– Garlic
– Ginger
Oil for Frying
– Vegetable, peanut, or canola oil
The chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces, then coated in a cornstarch egg white dredge for extra crispiness when fried. The sauce combines sweet and savory flavors like soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and spices. Onions, peppers, garlic, and ginger are often stir-fried as an aromatic base before the sauce is added.
Preparation
To make general chicken at home, the key steps are:
Marinate the Chicken
– Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces and place in a bowl.
– Add 1 tablespoon oil, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 egg white beaten, and season with salt.
– Mix well so chicken is evenly coated. Set aside to marinate for 15-30 minutes.
Make the Sauce
– In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chicken broth, minced garlic and ginger, chili sauce, and cornstarch.
– Whisk well and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables
– Heat oil in wok or skillet over high heat.
– Add diced onion and peppers. Cook 1-2 minutes.
– Add garlic and ginger. Cook 30 seconds more.
– Remove vegetables and set aside.
Fry the Chicken
– Add more oil to skillet if needed.
– Working in batches, add chicken pieces in single layer.
– Fry 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
– Remove chicken from oil and drain on paper towels.
Simmer the Sauce
– Return skillet to high heat.
– Give sauce a stir and add to pan.
– Bring to a simmer and cook 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Return Chicken and Veg to Sauce
– Add fried chicken and cooked vegetables back to pan.
– Gently toss to coat in sauce.
– Simmer 1-2 minutes to finish cooking.
– Serve over steamed rice.
The end result is crunchy, fried chicken pieces glazed in a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy sauce. Adjust amounts of ginger, garlic, and chili sauce to taste preferences.
Variations
There are many variations of general chicken that have developed over the years:
Sichuan General Chicken
– Uses Sichuan peppercorns in the sauce for a numbing, tingling sensation.
Cashew General Chicken
– Adds roasted cashews for crunch.
General Tso’s Chicken
– An extra spicy and tangy version using more chili pepper.
Orange General Chicken
– Uses orange juice and zest for a citrusy flavor.
Honey General Chicken
– Uses honey for extra sweetness in the sauce.
Sesame General Chicken
– Coats chicken in sesame seeds before frying for added texture.
Nutrition
General chicken is a reasonably healthy dish when enjoyed in moderation. A 6 oz serving provides:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 |
| Fat | 7g |
| Carbs | 27g |
| Protein | 19g |
| Sodium | 670mg |
The main nutritional considerations are the high sodium content from soy sauce and sugar content from the sauce. Those looking to lighten it up can use reduced sodium soy sauce and less sugar. Serving it with plenty of steamed vegetables increases the fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Popularity and Place in American Culture
General chicken has become exceedingly popular in the U.S., becoming a staple menu item at Chinese restaurants across the country. There are a few key reasons behind its widespread popularity:
Familiar Flavors
The sauce strikes a balance between sweet and savory that appeals to many American palates. The fried chicken also makes it familiar and approachable.
Texture Variety
Between the crispy chicken, tender vegetables, and sticky sauce, general chicken offers an appealing mix of textures in each bite.
Customizable
Diners can ask for it to be made spicier, less sweet, or with extra sauce or veggies to suit their tastes.
Beloved by Kids
Mild and crunchy, it’s a Chinese dish that even picky kids gobble up.
Versatile
It works for a variety of meals and occasions – as an entree, appetizer, on rice, noodles, or even pizza.
For these reasons, expect to find general chicken on nearly every Chinese takeout menu. It’s become a go-to favorite across generations.
How to Order at Chinese Restaurants
General chicken is available at just about any Chinese restaurant that offers American-style entrees. Here are some tips for ordering it off the menu:
Check for Preparation Styles
Some restaurants offer it in different styles like spicy Sichuan, sesame, orange, or honey glazed.
Specify Spice Level
Request mild, medium, or extra spicy to suit your taste.
Choose Side Dishes
Fried rice, lo mein noodles, or mixed veggies make ideal pairings.
Ask About Portion Sizes
A lunch portion may be smaller than a dinner entree.
Inquire About Add-Ons
Some places let you add extras like cashews, pineapple, or broccoli.
Let Them Know About Food Allergies
Make sure to mention any food allergies or restrictions upfront.
Order a Variety of Dishes
Try general chicken along with other menu items to enjoy an array of flavors.
Where to Find the Best General Chicken
The quality of general chicken can vary greatly depending on the restaurant. Here are some tips for finding the best:
Chinese Restaurants Specializing in Hunan Cuisine
They are more likely to prepare an authentic version true to the original Hunan chicken.
Restaurants that Make it to Order
General chicken tastes best fresh, not left sitting under a heat lamp.
Places with Good Reviews for Chicken Dishes
Look for restaurants known for high quality chicken entrées and prep.
Fine Dining Chinese Establishments
They tend to use fresher, higher quality ingredients.
Takeout Joints Where It’s a Top Seller
Locations that make it frequently will have the preparation down pat.
Talk to the Staff
Ask servers what they recommend for high quality or authentic general chicken.
Recipe for Restaurant Worthy General Chicken
This homemade recipe rivals the general chicken from your favorite Chinese restaurant:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cubed
- 1⁄4 cup cornstarch
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1⁄2 cup soy sauce
- 1⁄4 cup rice vinegar
- 1⁄4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1⁄4 cup chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon chili-garlic sauce
- 1⁄4 cup corn starch + 2 tablespoons water (mixed)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
- Sesame seeds, green onions, and steamed rice for serving
Instructions:
- Toss chicken with 1⁄4 cup cornstarch until fully coated. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, stock, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and chili-garlic sauce.
- Heat oil in a wok over high heat. Add chicken in batches and fry for 2-3 minutes until crispy and browned. Remove to a paper towel lined plate.
- Carefully pour out oil from wok and return to high heat. Add sauce mixture and bring to a simmer. Cook for 1 minute.
- Whisk together corn starch slurry. Stir into sauce and cook for 1 minute until thickened.
- Add chicken back to the wok and toss until fully coated in thickened sauce.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over steamed rice.
This homemade version lets you control the flavor and spice level to your liking. Make it on the mild side for kids or extra spicy for daring adult tastes.
Conclusion
In summary, general chicken combines the crunchy, fried flavors of American cooking with the spicy, savory punch of Chinese cuisine. While not an authentic dish, it has become beloved for its versatility as an entree, app, or ingredient in fusion cooking. It’s also highly customizable, available in myriad flavor variations across restaurants. When prepared with high-quality ingredients, fresh chicken, and zesty sauce, general chicken is a hard dish to resist. This tasty meal continues to have a place in the hearts – and stomachs – of Chinese food lovers nationwide.