Sheet Pan General Tso's Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Spicy Chicken Nuggets with Roasted Broccoli

Enjoy a vibrant, flavorful meal with tender chicken nuggets coated in a zesty sauce, paired with perfectly roasted broccoli and served over fluffy white rice. A simple weeknight dinner that bursts with taste!

Ingredients

This recipe was developed for 4 servings. Adjustments in quantity can be made for larger or smaller portions, but cooking times and steps remain the same.

• 1 1/2 tablespoons sambal oelek
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons hoisin sauce
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 pound frozen fully-cooked chicken nuggets (about 24 pieces)
• 2 cups cooked white rice, or as needed, for serving
• Sliced green onions (optional)
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425F (220C).
2. In a small saucepan, whisk together the sambal oelek, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, brown sugar, and minced garlic. Warm over low heat for about 5 minutes, then set aside.
3. Place the broccoli florets in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 2 minutes. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
4. Arrange the chicken nuggets on one half of a large baking sheet and spread the broccoli on the other half.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until the nuggets are heated through and the broccoli is tender.
6. Transfer the baked nuggets to a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm sauce over the nuggets and toss until each piece is evenly coated.
7. Serve the saucy chicken nuggets over a bed of cooked rice alongside the roasted broccoli. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 553
• Total Fat: 27g (35% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (24% DV)
• Cholesterol: 62mg (21% DV)
• Sodium: 1117mg (49% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 54g (20% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 7g (24% DV)
• Total Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 24g (49% DV)
• Vitamin C: 104mg (115% DV)
• Calcium: 88mg (7% DV)
• Iron: 3mg (17% DV)
• Potassium: 820mg (17% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind General Tso's Chicken

General Tsos chicken, despite its widespread association with Chinese cuisine, is actually a culinary invention of Chinese-American chefs in the 1970s. The dish is named after Zuo Zongtang, a Qing dynasty military leader, but there is little evidence that he ever ate or prepared anything resembling the dish. It gained popularity in the United States as a sweet, spicy, and savory chicken dish, designed to appeal to American tastes while maintaining a nod to traditional Chinese flavors. Its evolution reflects the broader trend of Chinese cuisine adapting abroad, resulting in unique dishes that differ significantly from their homeland inspirations.

Regional Variations

While General Tsos chicken is not commonly found in mainland China, its style has inspired numerous regional adaptations across North America. In some areas, chefs incorporate local vegetables such as broccoli or bell peppers, creating a balanced and colorful presentation. In other regions, the sauce may be made slightly less sweet or spicier to match local preferences. The sheet-pan version of this dish, like the one in this recipe, simplifies preparation by roasting chicken and vegetables together, making it a modern, home-friendly twist on the classic takeout favorite.

Differences from Similar Dishes

General Tsos chicken is often confused with other sweet and spicy Chinese-American dishes, such as Orange Chicken or Sesame Chicken. The primary distinction lies in the sauce and preparation: General Tsos is characterized by its bold, tangy, and slightly smoky flavor, often achieved with chili paste and soy-based seasoning. Orange Chicken, by contrast, emphasizes a pronounced citrus sweetness, while Sesame Chicken focuses on the nutty aroma of toasted sesame seeds. The sheet-pan approach further differentiates this version by roasting rather than deep-frying the chicken, offering a lighter, more convenient option.

Typical Serving Context

Traditionally, General Tsos chicken is served as a main course in Chinese-American restaurants, often accompanied by steamed white rice or fried rice. In home kitchens, especially with this sheet-pan method, it has become popular for weeknight dinners due to its simplicity and minimal cleanup. Garnishes such as green onions and sesame seeds not only enhance presentation but also contribute subtle layers of flavor, bridging the gap between restaurant-style plating and home-cooked ease.

Fun and Interesting Facts

Despite its international fame, General Tsos chicken is largely unknown in the regions of China associated with its namesake. Its American reinvention reflects the creativity of Chinese immigrants, adapting traditional flavors to new ingredients and local palates. The sheet-pan version of the dish, utilizing pre-cooked chicken nuggets, is a modern innovation aimed at efficiency without sacrificing taste. Additionally, pairing the dish with vegetables like broccoli boosts its nutritional profile, making it a clever balance of indulgence and wholesomeness. This combination has helped it remain a favorite in both restaurant menus and home kitchens alike.

FAQ about Sheet Pan General Tso's Chicken and Broccoli Recipe