If you’ve ever craved that irresistible sweet-spicy General Tso’s chicken but dreaded oily stovetop splatters and all-day effort, say hello to your new favorite: Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken. It’s everything you love about the takeout classic—but lighter, quicker, and even more flavorful thanks to the magical pressure-cooker treatment!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-Off Magic: Your Instant Pot does nearly all the work, so you get big restaurant flavor with just 10 minutes of active effort.
- Better-For-You Dinner: No frying required! This version is lighter, less greasy, and packed with fresh ginger and garlic.
- Deep, Crave-Worthy Flavor: The short, intense pressure-cooked simmer brings all those sweet, tangy, and spicy layers together fast—absolutely irresistible!
- Family Approved: It’s saucy, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser (even for picky eaters).
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken is the simple lineup of ingredients—each one plays a role in building that signature sweet, sticky, savory sauce and ultra-tender chicken. Here’s what you’ll need and why you can’t skip them!
- Chicken breast (boneless, skinless): Lean and quick-cooking, chicken breast soaks up all those rich flavors and turns out extra juicy under pressure.
- Soy sauce (low sodium) & dark soy sauce: The base of the sauce—one brings salt and savor, while a splash of dark soy adds color and depth.
- Honey & brown sugar: This dynamic duo balances the savory with a touch of caramel sweetness for that classic General Tso’s flavor.
- Garlic & fresh ginger: Essential for authentic, punchy aroma and zing—don’t be shy with the ginger!
- Rice vinegar: Adds bright tanginess that keeps the sauce from becoming too heavy. Apple cider vinegar works as a backup.
- Red pepper flakes: The signature heat! Feel free to dial back (or ramp up) to suit your spice level.
- Tomato paste: Sneaky secret for extra body, umami, and that gorgeous reddish hue.
- Hoisin sauce: Unmistakable, slightly sweet umami glue that brings everything together. If you don’t have any, try a mix of barbecue sauce, sriracha, and five-spice powder.
- Cornstarch & water: When swirled in at the end, this creates a luscious, glossy sauce that clings to every piece of chicken.
- Optional Garnishes (sesame seeds, green onions): Don’t skip these—just a shower of sesame and a sprinkle of bright green brings real restaurant flair.
Variations
The beauty of this Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken is how easy it is to customize for whatever you’re craving, or whatever’s in your fridge. Play with the flavor or swap ingredients to make it your own!
- Use Chicken Thighs: Swap the breast for juicy, boneless skinless chicken thighs—they’ll be extra tender and rich, no extra cook time needed!
- Lower Sugar: Cut the honey and brown sugar in half for a tangier, less-sweet result, without losing that crave-worthy sticky finish.
- Dial Up (or Down) the Heat: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for spicy lovers, or keep it mild for the kids.
- Vegetarian Twist: Try pressed tofu or cauliflower florets in place of chicken—just know the cook time will be much less (about 2 minutes under pressure for tofu).
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce to make this dish fully gluten-free.
How to Make Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken
Step 1: Sauté & Pile In the Ingredients
Start by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Toss in those chicken chunks and get them just kissed by a bit of heat—no browning needed, just a quick warmup helps them cook evenly. Next, add every sauce ingredient (except the thickener): soy sauces, honey, sugar, garlic, ginger, vinegar, red pepper flakes, tomato paste, and hoisin. Give it all a hearty stir to make sure every single piece gets coated in that golden, savory potential!
Step 2: Pressure Cook to Tender Perfection
Pop the Instant Pot lid on—follow your user manual for locking it securely—and set to the Poultry setting for just 5 minutes. Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken really is that fast! When the timer beeps, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes (the chicken gets even more tender), or carefully quick-release if you’re in a hurry.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
Switch the Instant Pot back to sauté mode. Using a slotted spoon, remove the chicken to a bowl so it won’t overcook. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water, then stir that slurry into the simmering sauce. Just two minutes or so is all it takes for it to transform into a beautiful, glossy, sticky sauce that’s ready to cling to your chicken.
Step 4: Toss Chicken & Serve
Now, return the chicken to the pot, gently fold so each piece is thoroughly coated, and press the “Cancel” button. All that’s left is a shower of sesame seeds and green onions—scoop it over rice, dig in, and enjoy! This is takeout-level Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken you made at home, with love.
Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken
- Cut Even Chunks: Chop your chicken into bite-sized, uniform pieces so everything cooks through at the same pace—no overdone edges or undercooked centers.
- Thickening Timing: Wait to add the cornstarch slurry until the sauce is hot and bubbling—this guarantees a glossy, lump-free finish!
- Customize That Heat: Everyone’s spice comfort zone is different—taste and sprinkle in more red pepper flakes only after cooking if you’re not sure.
- Don’t Rush the Release: Allowing at least a partial natural release keeps the chicken wonderfully tender and juicy instead of rubbery.
How to Serve Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken
Garnishes
Your finishing touches can make Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken utterly restaurant-worthy: a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for subtle crunch, and heaps of freshly sliced green onions for their fresh pop of color and mild bite. If you really want to wow, add a handful of chopped cilantro or a few red chili slices for extra flair.
Side Dishes
This craveable chicken absolutely shines over a steaming bowl of white jasmine rice, but don’t stop there! It’s just as delicious spooned over brown rice, fluffy quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter base. Want a little extra green on your plate? Pair with simply sautéed broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy for a colorful, balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling a little fancy, pile the saucy chicken into crisp lettuce cups or serve family-style with a mountain of stir-fried veggies alongside for a “takeout feast” vibe. Leftovers work beautifully as meal-prep bowls, tucked into wraps, or transformed into a super-flavorful filling for Asian-inspired tacos. Have fun with it!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One of the best perks of Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken is that leftovers keep marvelously! Once cooled, transfer the chicken and sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days—the flavors only intensify as it sits.
Freezing
To freeze, place the cooled chicken and sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags, pressing out as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave in a covered bowl (splatter alert!) or gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickened too much. Garnish fresh right before serving, and it almost tastes like you just made it!
FAQs
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Can I use frozen chicken for Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken?
Yes, you can definitely make this recipe with frozen chicken! Simply add 2–3 extra minutes to the pressure cooking time, making sure the chicken is separated (not one big block) for even cooking. Cut it into bite-size pieces once thawed, then continue as directed.
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Is it possible to make Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken less sweet?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sugary dish, reduce either the honey, the brown sugar, or both to your taste. You can even skip one entirely if you like sauces on the tangy-spicy side.
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What if I don’t have hoisin sauce?
If you’re out of hoisin, don’t worry—you can still get great flavor! Combine sweet barbecue sauce with a dash of sriracha and a pinch of Chinese five-spice powder to replicate that classic hoisin taste for Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken.
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Can I double the recipe in my Instant Pot?
Yes! You can double all ingredients as long as you stay under the pot’s max fill line. The cook time remains the same—just make sure to stir very well so every piece is coated, and allow a bit more time for pressure to build and release.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like homemade Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken—saucy, speedy, and packed with bold flavor, all with none of the restaurant hassle or takeout wait. If you’re searching for a sure-to-please weeknight dinner or a special treat that feels effortless, this recipe truly delivers. Give it a try and watch it become one of your family’s most-requested meals!
Print
Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a delicious homemade version of General Tso’s Chicken made in the Instant Pot. This recipe combines tender chicken in a flavorful sauce with a hint of sweetness and a touch of spice. Perfect served over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breast, skinless and boneless, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
Chicken:
Sauce:
Optional Garnish:
Instructions
- Saute Chicken: Turn Instant Pot to saute setting. Add chicken and remaining sauce ingredients, except cornstarch and water. Stir well.
- Cook: Close lid, set to Poultry setting, and timer to 5 mins. Natural release for 10 mins.
- Thicken Sauce: In a bowl, mix cornstarch and water. Pour over sauce, cook until thickened.
- Finish: Remove chicken, saute sauce, return chicken. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over rice.
Notes
- Read Instant Pot manual before use.
- Substitute options provided in the recipe notes for different flavors.
- Adjust sweetness to taste by reducing honey or brown sugar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 41g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
