Healthy General Tsos Chicken (Paleo)
If you’ve ever craved the crispy, tangy goodness of General Tsos Chicken but wanted to keep your meal healthy and clean, you’re in for a treat! This Healthy General Tsos Chicken (Paleo) recipe is a fantastic alternative that’s packed with flavor and free from refined sugars and unhealthy oils. The combination of coconut aminos and pure maple syrup brings out the sweetness without any guilt, making it the perfect weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s quick to whip up and sure to impress your family or guests!
Why It’s My Go-To
This Healthy General Tsos Chicken (Paleo) recipe is my go-to for so many reasons. First, it satisfies that craving for takeout without the unwanted calories or preservatives. The balance of flavors—sweet, savory, and a hint of heat—makes it a delightful dish that feels indulgent yet nutritious. The use of fresh ingredients and wholesome alternatives means I can enjoy my favorite flavors while sticking to my health goals. Plus, it’s versatile; you can easily customize the spice level by adjusting the sriracha. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!
Your Shopping Guide
When preparing to make your Healthy General Tsos Chicken (Paleo), here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- 1/3 cup coconut aminos or liquid aminos – a soy sauce alternative that’s gluten-free.
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup or honey – for that perfect touch of sweetness.
- 1 tbsp molasses or coconut sugar – deepens the flavor profile.
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar – adds acidity and brightness to the dish.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste – for a rich, savory base.
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil – brings a nutty flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic – fresh garlic is key for flavor.
- 2 to 3 tsp sriracha – adjust based on your spice preference.
- 2 large chicken breasts (1 to 1.5 lbs), chopped – the star of the dish!
- 1 large egg – helps the coating stick.
- 1/3 cup tapioca flour or arrowroot flour – for a crispy coating.
- 2 tbsp avocado oil – ideal for frying due to its high smoke point.
- 2 tsp sesame seeds – for garnish and added crunch.
- 2 stalks green onion, chopped – for a fresh finish.
Before You Start: Equipment
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following equipment ready:
- Large skillet or wok – for frying the chicken.
- Mixing bowls – for marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce.
- Whisk – ideal for combining the sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring and serving.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measuring.
Healthy General Tsos Chicken (Paleo) Cooking Guide
Ready to create your delicious Healthy General Tsos Chicken (Paleo)? Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken breasts with the egg, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Then, sprinkle the tapioca flour over the chicken and mix until it’s evenly coated. This will give your chicken that crispy texture we all love!
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; this will help achieve a perfect golden-brown crust.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Once the oil is hot, add the coated chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to do this in batches. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the coconut aminos, maple syrup, molasses, rice vinegar, tomato paste, toasted sesame oil, and sriracha. Whisk until everything is well combined and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your Healthy General Tsos Chicken (Paleo) with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve it hot, perhaps over a bed of cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
How to Make It Lighter
If you want to lighten this dish even further, consider these tips:
- Use skinless chicken breasts to reduce fat content.
- Swap out the avocado oil for a lighter oil, such as grapeseed oil.
- Reduce the amount of maple syrup or honey slightly, or replace it with a sugar-free alternative.
- Serve with steamed vegetables instead of rice to lower carbs.
Missteps & Fixes
Even the best cooks can have a misstep. Here are some common pitfalls and how to fix them:
- Chicken not crispy: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken, and don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Too sweet: If your sauce ends up too sweet, add a splash more rice vinegar to balance the flavors.
- Not enough sauce: If you prefer more sauce, double the sauce ingredients to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Shelf Life & Storage
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare because this dish is so delicious!), here’s how to store them:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use other proteins besides chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp or tofu if you want to switch things up.
Is tapioca flour the same as cornstarch?
While both can be used as a thickening agent, tapioca flour provides a different texture and is often preferred in paleo cooking.
What can I serve with this dish?
Try serving it over cauliflower rice or alongside steamed broccoli for a complete meal!
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes! You can mix the sauce ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
You Might Also Like
If you enjoyed this Healthy General Tsos Chicken (Paleo), check out these other delicious recipes:
- Everything Stir Fry Sauce – a versatile sauce for all your stir-fry needs.
- Honey Garlic Chicken – another sweet and savory chicken dish that’s sure to please!
That’s a Wrap
In just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a healthier version of a classic favorite with this Healthy General Tsos Chicken (Paleo) recipe. It’s flavorful, satisfying, and best of all, guilt-free! Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with family, this dish is bound to be a hit. So grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a deliciously healthy meal that brings the taste of takeout right to your kitchen. Happy cooking!
Healthy General Tsos Chicken (Paleo)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken breasts with the egg, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Then, sprinkle the tapioca flour over the chicken and mix until it’s evenly coated.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the coated chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, then remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the coconut aminos, maple syrup, molasses, rice vinegar, tomato paste, toasted sesame oil, and sriracha. Whisk until combined and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot!
Notes
- Use skinless chicken breasts to reduce fat content.
- Swap avocado oil for a lighter oil, like grapeseed oil.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
