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Frozen General Tso Chicken in the Air Fryer turns your favorite takeout into a crispy, quick, and healthier meal at home. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and taste, ready in minutes.

When I first tried making Frozen General Tso Chicken in the Air Fryer, it was a surprise. This dish is a favorite for its perfect blend of sweetness and heat. By using the air fryer, the chicken turns out incredibly crispy without the need for a lot of oil. It’s a healthier take on a classic that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Why You’ll Choose Frozen General Tso Chicken

Opting for Frozen General Tso Chicken in the Air Fryer is a decision you won’t regret. Let me break down why:

It cooks up quickly, making dinner a breeze.
Using less oil means it’s a healthier option.
The air fryer guarantees that crispy finish we all love.
You can go from freezer to table in no time.
It’s a smart way to enjoy a favorite without the extra calories.

Also see: Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken

Frozen General Tso Chicken in Air Fryer

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Frozen General Tso Chicken in the Air Fryer offers a crispy twist to a classic favorite, making it an irresistible, easy-to-prepare dish. It’s bound to become your quick, flavorful fix for busy nights.

Total Time: 8-10 minutes
Yield: Varies by package size

Ingredients

Frozen General Tso Chicken
Sesame seeds, if you like a bit of extra texture
Green onions, for that pop of color and freshness

For substitutions:

If you’re not into spicy food, choose a milder sauce.
Can’t find General Tso’s chicken? Any frozen breaded chicken will do. Just toss it in General Tso sauce.

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Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This step is crucial for ensuring the chicken starts cooking at the right temperature for that perfect crispy texture.
Prepare the chicken. Since we’re using frozen General Tso Chicken, there’s no need for washing or drying. This recipe is all about simplicity and convenience.
Consider the importance of choosing quality frozen chicken. Opt for a brand that uses good ingredients and minimal preservatives for the best flavor and texture.
Seasoning isn’t needed here, since the chicken is already coated in the General Tso sauce. However, if you’re using a plain frozen breaded chicken, feel free to toss it in a mix of General Tso sauce before cooking. For an added touch, sprinkle some sesame seeds and chopped green onions after cooking for garnish and extra flavor.
Cooking time and temperature. Place the frozen General Tso Chicken in the air fryer basket. Ensure there’s enough space between pieces to allow for optimal air circulation. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Why temperature and time matter. Cooking at 400°F ensures the outside gets crispy while the inside stays juicy. Flipping the chicken halfway through the cook time promotes even crisping and browning.
Arranging the chicken properly in the air fryer basket is key to achieving that desired crispiness. Avoid overcrowding to ensure hot air can circulate around each piece.
Serving suggestions: Once done, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes. Then, serve it hot. You can add extra sesame seeds and green onions on top for garnish. This dish goes wonderfully with steamed rice or vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

Air fryer models vary, so start checking your chicken a bit earlier than the suggested time to prevent overcooking.
No need to thaw the chicken. Cooking from frozen is what makes this recipe so convenient and quick.
Customize your dish by adding more sauce after cooking if you like it extra saucy. Just toss the cooked chicken in additional General Tso sauce and serve immediately.
Enjoy your meal right away for the best texture and flavor.

Author: Suborna Tanchangya
Prep Time: 0 minutes (Using frozen)
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

Serving Size: Depends on package instructions
Calories: Varies by brand
Sugar: Varies by brand
Sodium: Varies by brand
Fat: Varies by brand
Saturated Fat: Varies by brand
Unsaturated Fat: Varies by brand
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: Varies by brand
Fiber: Varies by brand
Protein: Varies by brand
Cholesterol: Varies by brand

Keywords: Air Fryer Frozen General Tso Chicken

See more: Trader Joes Mozzarella Sticks

Equipment Needed

The Air Fryer:

This gadget has become my go-to. It makes the chicken crispy on all sides without me having to babysit it. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze compared to frying.

Tongs:

I always use tongs to flip the chicken halfway through cooking. This ensures every bite is evenly crispy. Make sure to use ones that won’t scratch your air fryer basket.

How to Reheat Frozen General Tso Chicken in the Air Fryer

Reheating Frozen General Tso Chicken in the Air Fryer retains its crispiness while ensuring it’s thoroughly warmed through. Here’s how to bring back that just-cooked freshness:

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. This ensures the chicken warms evenly.
Arrange the General Tso Chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow hot air to circulate.
Heat for about 3-4 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed. If your chicken is not already in sauce or if you prefer it saucier, consider tossing it in sauce after heating.
Check to make sure it’s heated through. If not, continue heating in 1-minute increments until it reaches your desired temperature.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Frozen General Tso Chicken cooked in the air fryer pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:

Main/Side Dishes: Serve with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a lighter option. Steamed broccoli, bok choy, or a mixed vegetable stir-fry complement the flavors well.
Creative Serving Ideas: For a fun twist, serve the chicken in lettuce wraps topped with julienne carrots and cucumbers. Or, slice the chicken and add it to a fresh Asian-inspired salad with a ginger sesame dressing.

Air Fryer Frozen General Tso Chicken Recipe

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Frozen General Tso Chicken

Making Frozen General Tso Chicken offers a wonderfully crispy texture without the deep-frying hassle. Here are some tips to nail it every time:

Shake or flip halfway through: This ensures even cooking and crispiness on all sides.
Don’t overcrowd the basket: Air circulation is key for achieving that crispy exterior.
Adjust the sauce: For extra flavor, consider tossing the chicken in additional sauce after cooking. But if you prefer it crispy, serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
Preheat your air fryer: A preheated air fryer helps the chicken start cooking immediately, enhancing the crispiness.
Time and temperature: Stick to 400°F and adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model and the size of the chicken pieces.

Avoiding common mistakes like overcrowding and skipping preheating can make a big difference in the outcome.

FAQs about Frozen General Tso Chicken

Can I cook frozen General Tso’s chicken in an air fryer without thawing?

Yes, you can cook frozen General Tso’s chicken in an air fryer without thawing. The air fryer is designed to cook frozen foods efficiently, ensuring a crispy outcome.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the basket?

To prevent the chicken from sticking to the basket, lightly spray the basket with cooking spray or use parchment paper designed for air fryers with holes to allow for air circulation.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by choosing a gluten-free frozen General Tso’s chicken product or using a gluten-free breaded chicken alternative and tossing it with a gluten-free General Tso sauce.

Final Words

Choosing to make Frozen General Tso Chicken in the Air Fryer is the smart choice. It’s quicker than traditional frying, less messy, and yields deliciously crispy chicken.

The air fryer not only makes cooking easier but also helps keep things healthier by using less oil. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sauces or garnishes to personalize your dish.

Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this meal, and let your culinary creativity shine. Here’s to many more flavorful and crispy meals from your air fryer!

See all in at KitGiz for Air Fryer recipes.