Healthy General Tso’s Chicken (Paleo): A Cozy, Crispy, Flavorful Favorite

This Healthy General Tso’s Chicken is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for those looking to keep things nutritious while still enjoying a hearty meal. With crispy chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce, it comes together quickly and easily, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners.

Why make this recipe

This recipe offers a healthier version of the traditional General Tso’s Chicken by using almond flour instead of breading and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. It’s a paleo-friendly dish that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare, making it ideal for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt. Plus, it provides a great opportunity to incorporate more protein into your diet while enjoying a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili flakes (optional)
• Green onions for garnish

How to make it

1. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge chicken in almond flour, dip in the beaten eggs, then back in almond flour.
3. In a large skillet, heat coconut oil over medium heat.
4. Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and crispy.
5. In a separate bowl, mix the apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, chicken broth, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and chili flakes.
6. Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet, stirring to coat.
7. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

How to serve it

Enjoy this dish hot and fresh, garnished with chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor. It pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, cauliflower rice, or your favorite paleo-friendly sides.

How to store it

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to retain the chicken’s crispiness.

Helpful tips

• Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when frying the chicken, as this will prevent them from getting crispy.
• Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey or maple syrup based on your taste preference.

Optional variations

• For a spicy kick, increase the amount of chili flakes or add some sliced bell peppers during cooking.
• If you would like to make it less sweet, reduce the honey or maple syrup to 2 tablespoons.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a different type of flour?
You can use coconut flour, but you may need to adjust the amount as it absorbs more liquid than almond flour.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this Healthy General Tso’s Chicken is gluten-free since it uses almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs.

What can I substitute for chicken?
You can use tofu or tempeh if you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, adjusting the cooking times as needed.

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