Best General Tso Vegan Chicken Recipe for Flavorful Meals

If you’ve ever craved the bold, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors of General Tso’s Chicken but want to keep things plant-based, you’re in for a treat. This Best General Tso Vegan Chicken Recipe brings all the classic flavors you love, without the meat.

Using perfectly crispy vegan “chicken” bites made from seitan or tofu, coated in a luscious sauce that balances savory, sweet, and spicy notes, this dish is sure to become a staple in your vegan recipe collection.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe offers an irresistible combination of texture and flavor that’s not only satisfying but also simple to make. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional General Tso’s Chicken, packed with wholesome ingredients and no animal products.

Prepare to impress with this crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with steamed rice or your favorite stir-fried veggies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan General Tso’s recipe stands out because it perfectly mimics the crispy, saucy goodness of the original dish, without relying on meat or heavy frying. The seitan or tofu pieces are marinated and coated for a crispy exterior that soaks up the vibrant sauce literally bursting with flavor.

Unlike many takeout versions that can be overly sweet or greasy, this recipe offers a balanced taste with just the right amount of heat and sweetness. It’s also highly customizable, allowing you to adjust spice levels or swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Finally, it’s a quick recipe that’s perfect for weeknights yet impressive enough for entertaining. If you love dishes like Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipes or are a fan of creative vegan meals like the Julie Marie Eats Recipes, this one will quickly become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 14 oz extra firm tofu or 12 oz seitan, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
• 2 tbsp vegetable or canola oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 3 tbsp rice vinegar
• 3 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar
• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce (check vegan label)
• 1 tsp chili garlic sauce or sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds, for garnish

Equipment

• Large non-stick skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Whisk
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Paper towels (for pressing tofu)
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Press the tofu: If using tofu, wrap it in paper towels and press gently to remove excess water. Let it sit for 15 minutes for best results. If using seitan, skip this step.
2. Prepare the “chicken” pieces: Cut tofu or seitan into bite-sized cubes. Toss gently in 3 tablespoons of soy sauce to marinate for 10 minutes.
3. Coat with cornstarch: Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated pieces and toss until evenly coated. This creates the crispy exterior when cooked.
4. Cook the vegan chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the coated tofu or seitan pieces in a single layer. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Make the sauce base: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic and grated ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Combine sauce ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, hoisin sauce, chili garlic sauce, and water.
7. Simmer the sauce: Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with garlic and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
8. Thicken the sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry slowly while whisking continuously until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
9. Coat the vegan chicken: Return the crispy tofu or seitan pieces to the skillet. Toss gently to coat each piece evenly in the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld.
10. Garnish and serve: Transfer to a serving plate and sprinkle with sliced scallions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice or your favorite grain.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispness, try baking the coated tofu pieces at 425°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, instead of pan-frying.

If you prefer a bit more heat, increase the amount of chili garlic sauce or add red pepper flakes to the sauce. For a slightly different texture, swap tofu with store-bought vegan chicken nuggets or tempeh.

To deepen flavor, add a splash of vegan oyster sauce or mushroom soy sauce to the mix. You can also throw in steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for a colorful vegetable boost.

Not vegan but want to try more plant-based dishes? Check out our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes that use similar meatless swaps.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan General Tso’s Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, serve alongside cauliflower rice or quinoa.

Add a side of stir-fried vegetables such as bok choy, snap peas, or broccoli for a colorful and nutritious meal. You can also try serving it with crispy spring rolls or vegan egg rolls to complete the Asian-inspired feast.

For more vegan Asian-inspired dishes, you might enjoy our Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe or the comforting flavors of Leche De Pantera Recipe.

Conclusion

This Best General Tso Vegan Chicken Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the beloved flavors of a classic takeout dish while keeping it plant-based and wholesome. The perfect balance of crispy vegan “chicken” and rich, tangy sauce means every bite is bursting with flavor and texture.

Easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests, this recipe is a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy, whether vegan or not.

Give it a try and discover a new favorite that proves vegan cooking can be both delicious and exciting!

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