Name: Copycat General Tso’s Chicken Roll Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Yield: 3
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 3 chicken breasts; salt and pepper; 12 snap peas; 1 medium carrot; 1 tsp sesame oil; 4 garlic cloves; 1 tbsp fresh ginger; 2 cups chicken stock; ¼ cup sugar; 1 tsp chili flakes; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp dark soy sauce; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 5 cups canola oil; 1 cup Corn Starch; white rice; 1 tbsp Sesame seeds; ¼ cup Scallions

This copycat General Tso’s chicken roll recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Chinese take-out favorite. The chicken is tender and juicy, wrapped around crisp vegetables, then fried to perfection and coated in a rich, flavorful sauce. Serve it with a side of rice, and you have a meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Photos of Copycat General Tso’s Chicken Roll Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be commonly found in every pantry. Make sure to pick up sesame oil, fresh ginger, snap peas, and corn starch during your supermarket visit. These essential items will help you achieve the authentic flavors and textures of General Tso’s chicken rolls.

Ingredients for Copycat General Tso’s Chicken Rolls

Chicken breasts: Main protein, pounded thin for easy rolling and even cooking.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

Pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth.

Snap peas: Provides a crisp texture inside the chicken rolls.

Carrot: Adds sweetness and crunch.

Sesame oil: Infuses the dish with a nutty, aromatic flavor.

Garlic cloves: Adds pungency and depth to the sauce.

Fresh ginger: Lends a warm, spicy flavor.

Chicken stock: Forms the base of the sauce, adding richness.

Sugar: Balances the savory and spicy elements.

Chili flakes: Adds a kick of heat.

Rice vinegar: Provides acidity and tanginess.

Dark soy sauce: Deepens the color and flavor of the sauce.

Tomato paste: Adds umami and richness.

Canola oil: Used for frying the chicken rolls to a golden brown.

Corn starch: Creates a crispy coating when frying.

White rice: The perfect accompaniment to serve with the chicken rolls.

Sesame seeds: Adds a nutty crunch as a garnish.

Scallions: Provides a fresh, vibrant garnish.

One reader, Bird Mobley says:

This copycat General Tso’s chicken roll recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are spot-on, and the crispy chicken paired with the tangy sauce is simply irresistible. Perfect for a homemade takeout night!

Bird Mobley

Techniques Required for Making Copycat General Tso's Chicken Rolls

How to pound chicken breasts: Place a chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound it evenly to about ¼-inch thick. How to make a cornstarch slurry: Mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water until smooth. How to fry chicken: Heat oil in a large pot until it reaches 350 degrees F, then fry the chicken rolls for 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. How to check sauce consistency: Cook the sauce until it coats the back of a spoon and leaves a path when a finger is run through it.

How To Make Copycat General Tso’s Chicken Roll

If you loved General Tso’s chicken roll, then you’ll love this deliciously savory imitation loaded with tender veggies and coated in a garlic-ginger sauce!

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 35 minutes

Chill Time: 30 minutes

Total: 1 hour 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3chicken breasts
salt and pepper,to taste
12snap peas
1medium carrot,thinly sliced
1tspsesame oil
4garlic cloves,minced
1tbspfresh ginger,chopped
2cupschicken stock
¼cupsugar
1tspchili flakes
1tbsprice vinegar
1tbspdark soy sauce
1tbsptomato paste
5cupscanola oil,for frying
1cupcorn starch,plus 2 tsp
white rice,cooked, for serving
1tbspsesame seeds,for garnish
¼cupscallions,sliced, for garnish

Instructions

Place a chicken breast between 2 sheets of plastic wrap. Pound evenly to about ¼-inch thick, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
Place 4 snap peas and a few carrot slices at the bottom edge of the chicken, then roll up tightly and wrap in plastic wrap. Repeat with the remaining chicken and vegetables.
Chill the chicken rolls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Heat the sesame oil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Add the garlic and ginger, then cook until they are toasty.
Add the chicken stock, sugar, chile flakes, rice vinegar, soy sauce, tomato paste, and cornstarch slurry mix of 2 teaspoons cornstarch with 2 teaspoons water. Whisk to combine.
Cook until the sauce coats the back of a spoon, then leaves a path when ran through with a finger. Remove from the heat and set aside.
Heat the oil in a large pot until it reaches 350 degrees F.
Unwrap the chicken, then roll it in the cornstarch until evenly coated.
Fry two chicken rolls at a time for 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
Transfer the chicken to a wire rack to drain. If the chicken is not cooked through by the time it is golden brown on the outside, bake in the oven at 325 degrees F until that temperature is reached.
Slice the chicken rolls and serve with rice alongside. Pour the sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallions for garnish.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 3865.08kcal
Fat: 384.63g
Saturated Fat: 32.39g
Trans Fat: 1.62g
Monounsaturated Fat: 238.68g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 107.39g
Carbohydrates: 70.13g
Fiber: 2.92g
Sugar: 21.66g
Protein: 42.90g
Cholesterol: 116.16mg
Sodium: 1926.13mg
Calcium: 96.12mg
Potassium: 818.84mg
Iron: 3.31mg
Vitamin A: 229.72µg
Vitamin C: 14.09mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Preparing This Copycat Recipe

When pounding the chicken breasts, use a meat mallet or rolling pin to ensure even thickness. This helps the chicken cook uniformly and makes it easier to roll with the snap peas and carrot slices.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Copycat Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop garlic, ginger, and vegetables ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use a meat mallet: Pounding the chicken breasts evenly ensures they cook faster and more uniformly.

Make the sauce ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator to save time during cooking.

Batch frying: Fry multiple chicken rolls at once to reduce overall cooking time.

Preheat the oven: If needed, have the oven preheated to 325 degrees F to quickly finish cooking the chicken rolls.

Substitute Ingredients For Copycat General Tso’s Chicken Roll Recipe

chicken breasts - Substitute with tofu: Tofu is a great vegetarian alternative that absorbs flavors well.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty flavor along with umami depth.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and is less visually noticeable in the dish.
snap peas - Substitute with green beans: Green beans have a similar crunch and can be used in the same way.
carrot - Substitute with bell pepper: Bell peppers add a sweet flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
sesame oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used for cooking, though it lacks the nutty flavor of sesame oil.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor in a more convenient form.
fresh ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used in place of fresh ginger, though it is more concentrated.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock is a good alternative for a vegetarian version of the dish.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a slight floral note to the sauce.
chili flakes - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha provides heat along with a bit of garlic flavor.
rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and can be used in the same way.
dark soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that provides a similar depth of flavor.
tomato paste - Substitute with ketchup: Ketchup can be used in place of tomato paste, though it is sweeter and less concentrated.
canola oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil has a high smoke point and adds a subtle nutty flavor.
corn starch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a good thickening agent and can be used in the same way as corn starch.
white rice - Substitute with brown rice: Brown rice is a whole grain alternative that provides more fiber and nutrients.
sesame seeds - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds add a similar crunch and nutritional benefits.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives provide a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.

Best Way to Present Copycat General Tso's Chicken Roll Recipe

Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the chicken rolls into elegant medallions, ensuring each piece showcases the vibrant colors of the snap peas and carrot filling.
Use decoration: Arrange the medallions in a fan shape on a pristine white plate, creating a visually appealing presentation that highlights the craftsmanship of the dish.
Add texture contrast: Place a small mound of perfectly cooked white rice beside the chicken medallions, adding a contrasting texture and a neutral base to balance the flavors.
Sauce presentation: Drizzle the rich, glossy sauce artfully over the chicken medallions, allowing it to pool slightly around the base for an inviting look.
Garnish thoughtfully: Sprinkle sesame seeds and finely chopped scallions over the top of the chicken medallions, adding a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Highlight ingredients: Place a few whole snap peas and thin carrot ribbons on the plate as a nod to the ingredients inside the rolls, enhancing the visual appeal and reinforcing the dish's components.
Use elegant plating tools: Utilize tweezers for precise placement of garnishes and sauce brushes to create delicate strokes of sauce on the plate, showcasing meticulous attention to detail.
Balance the plate: Ensure the elements are symmetrically arranged, with enough negative space to give each component room to shine, creating a harmonious and balanced presentation.
Consider height: Stack a few medallions slightly on top of each other to add height and dimension to the plate, making the dish more dynamic and visually interesting.
Final touch: Add a small edible flower or microgreens as a final touch, providing a burst of color and an element of sophistication that elevates the overall presentation.

Essential Tools for Making This Copycat Recipe

Plastic wrap: Used to cover and pound the chicken breasts evenly and to wrap the rolled chicken for chilling.
Meat mallet: Essential for pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing the chicken and vegetables.
Chef's knife: Necessary for slicing the chicken breasts, snap peas, and carrots.
Medium saucepan: Used for heating the sesame oil and cooking the sauce.
Whisk: Helps to combine the sauce ingredients smoothly.
Large pot: Required for heating the oil to fry the chicken rolls.
Thermometer: Ensures the oil reaches the correct frying temperature and checks the internal temperature of the chicken.
Wire rack: Allows the fried chicken rolls to drain excess oil.
Baking sheet: Used to bake the chicken rolls if they are not fully cooked after frying.
Oven: Necessary for baking the chicken rolls to ensure they are cooked through.
Mixing bowl: Useful for preparing the cornstarch slurry.
Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients like sesame oil, sugar, chili flakes, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and tomato paste.
Measuring cups: Used for measuring larger quantities like chicken stock and cornstarch.
Tongs: Handy for turning the chicken rolls while frying.
Serving platter: For presenting the sliced chicken rolls with rice and garnishes.
Rice cooker: Convenient for cooking the white rice to serve alongside the chicken rolls.

Storing and Freezing Copycat General Tso's Chicken Rolls

To store leftover general tso's chicken rolls, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
For the best quality, store the chicken rolls and the sauce separately in the refrigerator. This will prevent the chicken from becoming soggy and maintain its crispy texture.
To reheat refrigerated general tso's chicken rolls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave the rolls for 1-2 minutes, but they may lose some of their crispiness.
If you want to freeze the general tso's chicken rolls for later consumption, follow these steps:
1. Allow the chicken rolls to cool completely to room temperature.
2. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching each other.
3. Freeze the rolls until they are solid, which should take about 2 hours.
4. Once frozen, transfer the rolls to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
5. Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
6. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen general tso's chicken rolls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen rolls on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. There's no need to thaw the rolls before reheating.
The general tso's sauce can be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply microwave the sauce in a microwave-safe bowl or heat it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

How to Reheat Leftover Copycat General Tso's Chicken Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain the crispiness of the chicken exterior while ensuring the inside is warm and juicy.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the chicken rolls on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 30-second intervals, flipping them over between each interval, until they are heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become rubbery.
If you have an air fryer, this is an excellent way to reheat your leftover general tso's chicken rolls. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the rolls in the basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
For a stovetop method, heat a small amount of sesame oil or neutral cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken rolls and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and the exterior is crispy.
If you have leftover sauce, reheat it separately in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Once the chicken rolls are heated through, drizzle the warm sauce over them for added flavor and moisture.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, avoid reheating the chicken rolls more than once. If you have a large amount of leftovers, consider reheating only the portion you plan to consume and storing the rest in the refrigerator for later.

Interesting Fact About Copycat General Tso's Chicken Rolls

A random fact about this recipe is that it combines the flavors of General Tso's chicken with a unique twist by rolling the chicken with snap peas and carrots. This method not only infuses the chicken with fresh vegetable flavors but also creates an appealing presentation when sliced.

Is Making Copycat General Tso's Chicken Rolls at Home Cost-Effective?

This recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of chicken breasts, snap peas, and carrots are relatively affordable, while ingredients like sesame oil and dark soy sauce may be pricier but are used in small quantities. The bulk of the cost comes from the canola oil for frying. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25 USD. Considering the flavor and satisfaction, I would rate this recipe a solid 7 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.

Is This Copycat Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This copycat General Tso's chicken roll recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

Deep frying the chicken rolls in canola oil adds a significant amount of unhealthy fats and calories
The sauce contains a considerable amount of sugar, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues when consumed in excess
The recipe lacks a variety of vegetables, focusing mainly on snap peas and carrots

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Instead of deep frying, try baking the chicken rolls in the oven or air frying them to reduce the amount of oil used
Reduce the amount of sugar in the sauce or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables in the rolls, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or cabbage, to boost the nutritional value and fiber content
Use brown rice instead of white rice to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish
Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the overall sodium content

By incorporating these changes, you can enjoy a healthier version of this tasty General Tso's chicken roll recipe without compromising too much on flavor. Remember, moderation is key, and even with these adjustments, it's essential to consume this dish as part of a balanced diet.

Editor's Opinion on Copycat General Tso's Chicken Roll Recipe

This recipe for General Tso’s chicken rolls is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The combination of tender chicken, crisp snap peas, and carrots wrapped and fried to perfection offers a satisfying crunch. The sauce, with its balance of sweetness, heat, and umami, complements the dish beautifully. However, the frying process can be a bit cumbersome and may require careful monitoring to ensure the chicken is cooked through. Overall, it's a flavorful and impressive dish that would make a great addition to any dinner menu.

Enhance Your Copycat General Tso’s Chicken Roll Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Asian Cucumber Salad: Elevate your meal with a refreshing cucumber salad that balances the rich flavors of the General Tso’s Chicken Rolls. Thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in a tangy rice vinegar dressing with a hint of sesame oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds will provide a crisp, cool contrast to the warm, savory chicken.

Garlic Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Add a touch of green to your plate with bok choy stir-fried in garlic and soy sauce. This quick and easy side dish brings a delightful crunch and a subtle, savory flavor that complements the bold, spicy notes of the General Tso’s Chicken Rolls.

Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finish, consider a classic Thai dessert that pairs beautifully with the savory main course. Mango sticky rice combines creamy coconut milk infused sticky rice with slices of ripe, juicy mango. The sweetness of the mango and the richness of the coconut create a perfect harmony with the spicy and savory chicken rolls.

Hot and Sour Soup: Start your meal with a bowl of hot and sour soup. This classic Chinese soup features a tantalizing blend of tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots in a broth that is both spicy and tangy. It’s a perfect way to warm up your palate and set the stage for the flavorful General Tso’s Chicken Rolls.

Pineapple Fried Rice: Take your rice game up a notch with pineapple fried rice. This vibrant dish combines jasmine rice with chunks of sweet pineapple, cashews, and a medley of vegetables. The sweet and savory flavors of the pineapple and soy sauce blend perfectly with the crispy, flavorful chicken rolls.

Similar Recipes to Copycat General Tso's Chicken Rolls

Kung Pao Chicken: Dive into the spicy and savory world of Kung Pao Chicken. This classic Chinese dish features tender chicken pieces stir-fried with crunchy peanuts, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, tangy sauce. Perfectly paired with steamed white rice, it's a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

Sweet and Sour Chicken: Experience the delightful contrast of flavors with Sweet and Sour Chicken. Crispy chicken chunks are coated in a glossy, tangy sauce made from pineapple juice, vinegar, and a touch of sugar. Tossed with colorful bell peppers and juicy pineapple chunks, this dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Sesame Chicken: Indulge in the nutty and savory goodness of Sesame Chicken. This dish features crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory sauce, topped with toasted sesame seeds. Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice and garnish with fresh scallions for a meal that's both comforting and delicious.

Orange Chicken: Savor the zesty and sweet flavors of Orange Chicken. Crispy chicken bites are tossed in a vibrant orange sauce made from fresh orange juice, soy sauce, and a hint of ginger. Paired with steamed broccoli and white rice, it's a refreshing twist on a takeout favorite.

Honey Garlic Chicken: Delight in the sweet and savory harmony of Honey Garlic Chicken. Tender chicken pieces are glazed with a luscious sauce made from honey, garlic, and a splash of soy sauce. Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables and white rice for a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Ideal Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Copycat General Tso's Chicken Rolls

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms. Each mushroom cap is filled with a delectable mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, making them an irresistible start to any meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a touch of fresh parsley for an elegant presentation.

Shrimp Cocktail: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic shrimp cocktail. Succulent shrimp are poached in a flavorful broth, then chilled and served with a zesty cocktail sauce. The combination of tender shrimp and tangy sauce is a timeless favorite that never fails to impress. Arrange the shrimp around a bowl of sauce and add a wedge of lemon for a touch of brightness and visual appeal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, gooey chocolate lava cake that oozes rich, molten chocolate with every bite. This decadent dessert is perfect for those who crave a luxurious end to their meal. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an indulgent treat. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience that will leave your guests wanting more. Add a few fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and a hint of tartness to balance the sweetness.

Lemon Meringue Pie: For a refreshing and tangy finish, consider a lemon meringue pie. This classic dessert features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a zesty lemon curd and topped with a cloud of toasted meringue. The bright citrus flavor is a perfect palate cleanser after a savory meal. Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a twist of lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor. The combination of textures—from the crisp crust to the silky lemon filling and the airy meringue—makes this pie a delightful and memorable dessert.

Why trust this Copycat General Tso’s Chicken Roll Recipe:

This General Tso’s Chicken Roll recipe is a must-try for any home cook. It combines the classic flavors of General Tso’s chicken with a unique twist, making it both familiar and exciting. The detailed instructions ensure that even beginners can achieve restaurant-quality results. Using fresh ingredients like snap peas, carrots, and ginger guarantees a burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, the homemade sauce adds an authentic touch that you won't find in store-bought versions. Trust this recipe for a delightful culinary experience.

Share your thoughts on this Copycat General Tso's Chicken Roll Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How do I make sure the chicken stays rolled up while frying?

Chilling the chicken rolls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps them hold their shape. Wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap also ensures they stay together. If you're still having trouble, you can use toothpicks to secure the rolls before frying, just remember to remove them before serving.

Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

Yes, you can use other high smoke point oils like vegetable oil or peanut oil if you prefer. Just make sure the oil reaches 350 degrees F for proper frying.

What can I use as a substitute for snap peas?

If you don't have snap peas, you can use other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers or green beans. Just make sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly inside the chicken rolls.

How do I know when the sauce is ready?

The sauce is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and leaves a path when you run your finger through it. It should be thick enough to cling to the chicken but not too thick that it becomes gloopy.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving to bring it back to the right consistency.