Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken

Introduction

Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken delivers all the bold, sweet, and spicy flavors of the takeout classic in a fraction of the time, with tender, juicy chicken in every bite. The Instant Pot excels at locking in moisture and flavor, transforming simple ingredients into a dish that tastes like it simmered for hours—but in under 30 minutes.

This recipe is perfect for anyone craving a quick, family-friendly dinner that satisfies those restaurant cravings, but is made healthfully at home.

Why This General Tso’s Chicken Stands Out

Making General Tso’s Chicken in the Instant Pot means less oil, less mess, and no need to deep-fry. The pressure cooker does the heavy lifting, ensuring every morsel absorbs the addictive sauce. The taste balances garlic, ginger, sweet soy, tangy vinegar, and a slight heat—making it a reliable crowd-pleaser that will have everyone going back for seconds.

Building Bold Flavors with Ease

To build savory depth, start by sautéing aromatics like garlic and ginger right in the Instant Pot. For even, speedy prep, a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper quickly minces those ingredients and effortlessly dices green onions, if using. After browning the chicken, a blend of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and a hint of heat come together under pressure, resulting in a glossy, red-hued sauce that rivals your favorite takeout.

How to Get Tender, Flavor-Infused Chicken

Chicken thighs are preferred for juiciness, but chicken breast works just as well. For easy, consistent pieces, use a sturdy Bamboo Cutting Board Set. The pressure cooking step is what sets this recipe apart—gentle yet quick, it allows the sauce and chicken to marry perfectly. If you like your chicken shredded or chunked, a specialty Chicken Shredder Tool can save time and effort once cooking is complete.

Perfect Side Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Serve your General Tso’s Chicken over fluffy rice or crisp steamed vegetables. The sauce is ample, so a container like the Bentgo Salad Container makes it easy to pack leftovers for lunch or meal prep. To round out the meal, add steamed broccoli or sautéed snap peas, which soak up the flavor-packed sauce beautifully.

For easy cleanup of sticky sauces and splatters, keep a stack of Homaxy 100% Cotton Waffle Weave Kitchen Dish Cloths handy in the kitchen.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields about 4 generous portions. Each serving—without rice—typically provides around 300–350 calories, 22g protein, 14g fat, and 22g carbohydrates. Using chicken breast will lower the fat content further. It delivers incredible flavor with lighter ingredients compared to most restaurant versions.

Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken Recap

Homemade Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken is flavor-packed, tender, and saucy—made faster and healthier than takeout thanks to your trusty pressure cooker. Serve it to your family or guests for an unforgettable, no-fuss meal.

Instructions

1. Toss the chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons cornstarch until evenly coated. Using the Mueller Pro-Series Vegetable Chopper makes prepping aromatics and green onions fast and consistent.
2. Select ‘Sauté’ mode on your Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker. Heat 2 tablespoons oil, then brown chicken on both sides in batches. Remove and set aside.
3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Stir in garlic and ginger and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Return chicken to the pot. Pour in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sriracha, and ½ cup water. Stir to combine.
5. Seal the Instant Pot lid. Cook on ‘Manual/Pressure Cook’ for 5 minutes. Once done, perform a quick release.
6. Set to ‘Sauté.’ Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water); simmer until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
7. Serve hot over rice or vegetables, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. For easy, spill-free leftovers, transfer to the Bentgo Salad Container.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Enjoy the unbeatable combination of speed, flavor, and satisfaction with this Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken—an easy weeknight winner that tastes just as good as your favorite restaurant’s version!