What is the Difference Between Orange Chicken and General Tso’s Chicken?
Orange chicken and General Tso’s chicken are both popular Chinese-American dishes that are commonly found in Chinese restaurants throughout the United States. While they may look and taste similar to some people, there are actually some distinct differences between the two dishes.
- Flavor Profile:
Orange chicken is a sweet and tangy dish that is made with battered and fried chicken pieces that are coated in a sweet orange sauce. The sauce is typically made with orange juice, soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar, and often includes orange zest for added flavor.
General Tso’s chicken, on the other hand, is a spicy and savory dish that is made with battered and fried chicken pieces that are coated in a sweet and spicy sauce. The sauce is typically made with soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and chili paste or red pepper flakes, and often includes garlic and ginger for added flavor.
- Origin:
Orange chicken is a Chinese-American dish that was invented in the United States in the late 20th century. The dish is believed to have been created by Panda Express, a popular Chinese-American fast food chain, in the 1980s. While the dish has some Chinese influences, it is not a traditional Chinese dish.
General Tso’s chicken, on the other hand, is believed to have originated in the Hunan province of China in the 19th century. The dish is named after General Tso Tsung-tang, a famous Chinese military leader from the Qing dynasty. The dish was later introduced to the United States in the 1970s and has since become a popular Chinese-American dish.
- Spice Level:
Orange chicken is typically not very spicy and is often enjoyed by people who prefer milder flavors. The sauce is sweet and tangy, with a slight orange flavor that is not overpowering.
General Tso’s chicken, on the other hand, is a spicy dish that is often enjoyed by people who enjoy bold and spicy flavors. The sauce is sweet and spicy, with a noticeable kick from the chili paste or red pepper flakes.
- Presentation:
Orange chicken and General Tso’s chicken are both typically served with steamed rice, but the
presentation of the dishes can be slightly different.
Orange chicken is often served with orange slices and garnished with chopped green onions
or sesame seeds. The chicken pieces are typically small and bite-sized, and the sauce is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
General Tso’s chicken, on the other hand, is often served with broccoli or other vegetables on the side. The chicken pieces are typically larger than those in orange chicken, and the sauce is often more concentrated and served on top of the chicken pieces.
In conclusion, while orange chicken and General Tso’s chicken may appear similar
at first glance, there are some distinct differences between the two dishes. Orange chicken is a sweet and tangy dish that is not very spicy, while General Tso’s chicken is a spicy and savory dish that is often enjoyed by people who enjoy bold and spicy flavors. Additionally, orange chicken is a Chinese-American dish that was invented in the United States, while General Tso’s chicken is a traditional Chinese dish that has since been adapted for the American palate.
