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Get ready to savor the most incredibly flavorful, sticky, and perfectly crispy chicken wings you’ve ever tasted! These General Tso-style Chicken Wings are an absolute game-changer, offering all the classic sweet and savory notes without any soy, gluten, or refined sugars. Perfectly compliant with Paleo and AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) diets, they’re a dish you can feel good about indulging in.

While I cherish all the recipes shared on this blog, these General Tso-style Asian Chicken Wings hold a truly special place. They consistently rank among the top 10 family favorites in my household and are one of the few protein dishes my toddler happily devours every single time. Seriously, they’re that good! What makes them even better is how deceptively easy they are to prepare. Forget the heavy, sometimes questionable ingredients found in traditional takeout; this homemade version uses wholesome components like coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, natural sweeteners in place of refined sugar, and arrowroot starch for thickening instead of cornstarch. Whether you’re planning an appetizer for a party, a delicious snack for game day, or a fun and satisfying weeknight dinner, these wings are guaranteed to be a hit!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This General Tso Chicken Wings Recipe

Prepare to add this recipe to your regular rotation. Here’s why these General Tso-style chicken wings are simply irresistible:

• Unforgettable Flavor: The sauce is truly the star here – a complex blend of sweet, tangy, savory, and a hint of spice that perfectly coats each crispy wing. It’s an explosion of authentic General Tso taste, but with a fresh, wholesome twist.
• Perfectly Crispy, Without the Fryer: Achieving that coveted crispy skin usually means deep-frying, but not with this recipe! We use a clever baking technique that yields incredibly crispy wings straight from your oven, making them lighter and easier to clean up.
• Dietary Superstars: This recipe is a dream come true for various dietary needs. It’s completely Soy-Free, Gluten-Free, Paleo-friendly, and AIP-compliant (if pepper is omitted). You get all the flavor without any common allergens or inflammatory ingredients.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Say goodbye to refined sugars, cornstarch, and conventional soy sauce. We use natural alternatives that nourish your body while still delivering incredible taste.
• Kid-Approved: As a parent, finding meals that everyone loves can be a challenge. These wings are consistently a hit with even the pickiest eaters, including my own toddler, making mealtime a breeze.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: From a casual weeknight dinner to a festive party appetizer or a game day snack, these wings fit every scenario. They’re impressive enough for guests yet simple enough for an everyday meal.

Essential Ingredients for Your Paleo & AIP General Tso Wings

Crafting these delectable wings requires a few key ingredients, many of which are staple items in a health-conscious pantry. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the signature flavor and texture:

• Chicken Wings: For optimal cooking and ease of eating, I highly recommend using pre-cut chicken wings (drumettes and flats). These cook more evenly and get crispier faster than whole wings. Look for pasture-raised or organic chicken if possible for the best quality.
• Coconut Aminos: This is our star soy sauce substitute. Derived from the sap of coconut blossoms, coconut aminos are naturally soy-free and gluten-free, with a slightly sweeter and milder flavor than traditional soy sauce. It provides that essential umami depth without any inflammatory ingredients. You can find it in most health food stores and easily online.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: While traditional General Tso’s often uses white vinegar, this recipe opts for apple cider vinegar. Not only does it offer a lovely tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the sauce, but it’s also generally made from apples, avoiding the potential corn-derived ingredients found in many white vinegars, making it more aligned with AIP guidelines.
• Blackstrap Molasses: This is truly a secret ingredient that sets this recipe apart! Blackstrap molasses adds a deep, rich, slightly smoky sweetness and a gorgeous dark color to the sauce, without being overly sugary. It also provides a unique mineral complexity that honey can’t quite replicate. While you *can* use honey as a substitute, I strongly encourage you to try blackstrap molasses for the most authentic and robust flavor profile.
• Baking Powder: Another secret weapon for ultra-crispy wings! When mixed with the chicken skin, baking powder helps to draw out moisture and creates tiny air bubbles, resulting in an incredibly crisp exterior. Be sure to use a paleo-compliant baking powder, often made with cream of tartar and arrowroot starch, to avoid corn.
• Arrowroot Starch: This is our go-to thickening agent for the sauce. Arrowroot starch is a natural, gluten-free, and grain-free alternative to cornstarch, creating a glossy, perfectly thickened sauce that clings beautifully to the wings. A small amount is also used on the wings themselves to enhance crispiness.
• Avocado Oil: With its high smoke point and neutral flavor, avocado oil is perfect for coating the wings before baking. It helps them brown and crisp up beautifully without imparting any unwanted taste.
• Flavorful Seasonings: A harmonious blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and ginger powder forms the aromatic base of both the wings and the sauce. These powdered spices ensure even distribution and infuse every bite with classic Asian-inspired flavors. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste (omit pepper for strict AIP).

Crafting Your Crispy General Tso’s Style Chicken Wings: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making these irresistible wings is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps to achieve perfect, restaurant-quality results at home:

1. Prepare and Season the Wings: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place your chicken wings in a large bowl and, crucially, pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to achieving maximum crispiness. Season the dry wings generously with salt and pepper (if using, omit pepper for AIP). Then, toss them evenly with baking powder and a tablespoon of arrowroot starch until each wing is lightly coated. This combination creates that amazing crispy texture in the oven.

2. Bake to Crispy Perfection: Arrange the seasoned chicken wings in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space around them for air to circulate – this is vital for crispiness. Drizzle or spray them lightly with avocado oil. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time (around the 20-minute mark), flip the wings to ensure even browning and crispiness on all sides. The wings should be beautifully golden brown, cooked through, and wonderfully crisp when done.
3. Whip Up the Irresistible Sauce: Approximately 10-15 minutes before your wings are finished baking, it’s time to prepare the General Tso sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut aminos, apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, blackstrap molasses, coconut sugar, garlic powder, ginger powder, and the remaining 2 teaspoons of arrowroot starch. Whisk all the ingredients together until smooth. Place the saucepan on the stovetop over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue to simmer for 3-5 minutes, whisking occasionally, until the sauce thickens and slightly reduces to a glossy consistency. Remove it from the heat immediately. Be sure to reserve about ¼ cup of this glorious sauce on the side for dipping later!

4. Sauce and Serve: Once the wings are baked to perfection, transfer them to a clean, large mixing bowl. Pour the freshly made, warm General Tso sauce over the cooked wings. Using tongs or a spatula, gently toss the wings, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated in the sticky, flavorful sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Don’t forget that reserved sauce on the side for those who love extra dipping!

Pro Tips & Clever Tricks for Ultimate General Tso Wings

• The Secret to Serious Crispiness: Pat Those Wings Dry! This step cannot be overstated. Moisture is the enemy of crispy skin. Before seasoning, take the time to thoroughly pat every single chicken wing dry with paper towels. The drier they are, the crispier they’ll get in the oven.
• Give Them Space: When arranging wings on the baking sheet, make sure they are in a single layer and not touching. Overcrowding the pan will steam the wings instead of baking them, preventing them from achieving that desirable crispy texture. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
• Don’t Skip the Baking Powder: This is a magical ingredient for baked wings! It raises the pH level on the chicken skin, breaking down proteins and promoting a crispier exterior. Make sure you’re using a corn-free baking powder for AIP/Paleo.
• Make it a Complete Meal: These General Tso wings are so satisfying, they can easily transform from an appetizer into a full dinner. Pair them with a healthy side for a balanced and delicious meal.
• Taste and Adjust the Sauce: Before pouring the sauce over the wings, taste it! You might want to add a tiny bit more coconut sugar for sweetness, a dash more apple cider vinegar for tang, or a pinch more salt. Customize it to your preference.

Storing and Reheating Your Delicious Leftovers

If you happen to have any of these amazing wings left (a rare occurrence!), they store beautifully. Simply place the cooled wings in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To reheat them and bring back their delightful crispiness, avoid the microwave. Instead, pop them into an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, until they are thoroughly warmed through and crispy once more.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with General Tso Chicken Wings

These flavorful wings are versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of sides to create a complete and satisfying meal:

• Roasted Vegetables: A simple roasted vegetable is an ideal accompaniment. We most commonly serve these with crisp-tender roasted broccoli, but roasted asparagus, green beans, or bell peppers would also be fantastic.
• Rice or Quinoa: For a more filling meal, serve the wings alongside a bowl of white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. If you’re looking for a grain-free option that fits both Paleo and AIP, cauliflower rice is an excellent choice.
• Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing green salad with a simple vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the rich, sticky wings.
• Steamed Greens: Lightly steamed bok choy or spinach can add a healthy and traditional Asian touch.

You’ll also love these similar recipes!

• Paleo General Tso’s Chicken: If you adore these wings, you’ll love the full chicken version!
• Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Wings: Another crowd-pleasing wing recipe with a different but equally delicious flavor profile.

General Tso Asian Chicken Wings (Paleo, AIP)

Yield:

4
servings

Prep Time:

10
mins

Cook Time:

35
mins

Author:
Michelle

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Ingredients

For the wings

• 2 lbs
  chicken wings
• Salt & pepper, omit pepper for AIP
• 1 tbsp
  arrowroot starch
• 2 tsp
  baking powder
• 2 tbsp
  avocado oil

For the sauce

• ½ cup
  coconut aminos
• 2 tbsp
  apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp
  chicken broth
• 2 tbsp
  blackstrap molasses
• 1 tsp
  coconut sugar
• 2 tsp
  garlic powder
• ½ tsp
  ginger
• 2 tsp
  arrowroot starch

For topping

• Green onion, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400 F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Add the chicken wings to a large bowl and pat them dry. Season with salt and pepper and toss with arrowroot starch and baking powder until coated.
3. Add the chicken wings to the baking sheet and top with avocado oil. Transfer to the oven and bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through. The wings should be cooked through and crisp.
4. About 10 minutes before the wings are finished cooking, combine the ingredients for the sauce in a medium sauce pot. Whisk together. Transfer to the stovetop and bring to a simmer for 3-5 minutes or until the sauce thickens and slightly reduces. Remove from the heat. Reserve about 1/4 cup of sauce on the side for dipping.
5. Add the cooked wings to a clean bowl and pour the sauce over the wings. Toss to coat.
6. Serve the wings topped with green onion and sauce on the side.

Notes

All nutrition facts are estimations and will vary.

Serving:
1
serving

,

Calories:
356
kcal

,

Carbohydrates:
59.8
g

,

Protein:
5.1
g

,

Fat:
10.9
g

,

Fiber:
0.4
g

All nutrition facts are estimated and will vary.

Frequently Asked Questions About General Tso Chicken Wings

Here are some common questions about making these delicious, healthy wings:

What exactly is General Tso’s Chicken?

General Tso’s Chicken is a popular deep-fried chicken dish served in North American Chinese restaurants, typically characterized by its sweet, slightly spicy, and savory sauce. Our version captures that iconic flavor profile but is baked, not fried, and uses wholesome, dietary-friendly ingredients.

Can I make these General Tso wings in an air fryer?

Absolutely! The air fryer is fantastic for achieving extra crispy wings. For air frying, toss the seasoned wings with baking powder and arrowroot starch as directed. Place them in a single layer in your air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Then, toss them with the prepared sauce.

Are these wings spicy?

This recipe is designed to be mild, focusing on the sweet, savory, and tangy aspects of General Tso’s. There’s no added chili or spicy ingredients. If you prefer a kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce (if not strictly AIP) or serve with a side of your favorite hot sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of wings?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even chicken breasts. Cut them into bite-sized pieces, season with salt, pepper, arrowroot starch, and baking powder, and bake or air fry until cooked through and slightly browned. Then, toss them in the sauce. The cooking time will be shorter for smaller pieces.

What does AIP-compliant mean for this recipe?

AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) is a dietary approach that eliminates foods that commonly trigger inflammation, such as gluten, soy, refined sugar, nightshades (like pepper), nuts, and seeds. This recipe is carefully crafted to be AIP-compliant by using coconut aminos (soy-free), blackstrap molasses and coconut sugar (unrefined sweeteners), and explicitly stating to omit pepper. Always double-check your baking powder for cornstarch, as some brands contain it.

Where can I buy coconut aminos?

Coconut aminos have become quite popular and are readily available. You can typically find them in the international or health food aisle of most large grocery stores, at specialty health food stores like Whole Foods, or very easily online through retailers like Amazon.

Can I freeze these chicken wings?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked General Tso wings. Once cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven or air fryer until hot and crispy.

This recipe was originally published in 2019 and updated in 2023 with improved instructions and expanded content for an even better cooking experience.