Asian Inspirations: What Side Dish Goes with General Tso Chicken?

Crispy, sticky, and unapologetically bold—General Tso’s chicken isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience. But here’s the thing: as good as it is, the real magic happens when you pair it with the right side dish. That’s where the harmony, the balance, the complete meal comes into play.

You’ve mastered the chicken, but now you’re left wondering: what side dish goes with General Tso chicken? This isn’t a decision to take lightly. The wrong choice can drown out those perfect flavors, while the right one can elevate your meal to something unforgettable.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of Asian cuisine, exploring everything from steamed dumplings to wonton soup, vegetable stir-fries to sesame bread. By the end, you’ll have a repertoire of side dishes that not only complement General Tso’s chicken but make your entire meal sing.

What Side Dish Goes with General Tso Chicken

Understanding the Role of Side Dishes in Asian Cuisine

Asian cuisine is a universe unto itself, rich in tradition, flavor, and an inherent balance that resonates through every dish. It’s a dance of contrasts—sweet and sour, salty and spicy, crispy and tender. The main dish often takes the spotlight, but the side dishes? They’re the unsung heroes. They elevate the meal, complement the bold flavors, and bring harmony to the table.

The Symphony of Flavors

In Chinese cuisine, the side dish isn’t just an afterthought; it’s a vital component that brings the meal together. Imagine a plate of General Tso’s chicken, its sweet and spicy sauce clinging to every crispy bite. It’s rich, intense, and a little indulgent. Now, pair that with a bowl of steamed white rice—simple, plain, yet essential. The rice doesn’t compete with the chicken; it tempers its intensity, absorbs the excess sauce, and allows you to enjoy each bite without overwhelming your palate.

But rice isn’t the only player in the game. Stir-fried vegetables, for example, bring a fresh, crunchy contrast to a meal dominated by deep-fried goodness. A medley of bok choy, garlic green beans, and Napa cabbage offers not just a break in texture but a burst of vibrant green that cuts through the richness of the main dish.

Balancing the Bold

When thinking about what side dish goes with General Tso chicken, it’s crucial to consider balance. The chicken is already packing a punch with its sweet and spicy sauce. You don’t want a side that clashes or overshadows. Instead, think of sides that complement and refresh. Hot and sour soup, with its tangy broth and tender tofu, can provide a refreshing start, awakening your taste buds for what’s to come.

Or maybe you’d prefer something with a bit of crunch, like spring rolls or fried wontons. The crisp exterior and soft filling play perfectly against the saucy chicken, offering textural variety. The key is to avoid overloading the senses; let each component of the meal play its part without drowning out the others.

The Cultural Context

In Asia, meals are often communal, a shared experience where the main dish is just one part of a greater whole. The side dishes—whether it’s a simple bowl of edamame, a pile of pickled vegetables, or a serving of soba noodles—are there to ensure everyone at the table finds something they love. These dishes often hold cultural significance, representing the values of harmony and balance that are so deeply embedded in the culinary traditions of the region.

Even something as simple as a side of soy sauce can add layers of flavor, allowing diners to adjust the saltiness to their liking. A dish like General Tso’s chicken might have originated as a way to cater to Western palates, but when you serve it alongside traditional side dishes, you’re bringing it back into the fold of Asian cuisine, respecting the balance and interplay that make these meals so special.

Pitfalls to Avoid

When crafting the perfect meal, it’s easy to fall into the trap of overcomplicating things. You don’t need a dozen side dishes to create a balanced plate. Sometimes, the simplest sides—like a small bowl of jasmine rice or a light Asian slaw—can make the biggest impact.

Another common mistake? Ignoring the textures. A meal that’s all soft or all crispy can quickly become monotonous. Variety is the spice of life, and in this case, it’s also the key to a satisfying dining experience. So, when you’re deciding what side dish goes with General Tso chicken, remember: it’s not just about flavor—it’s about the texture, the temperature, and the way it all comes together on the plate.

Essential Rice and Noodle Side Dishes

The moment you think of pairing a main dish with a side, rice and noodles almost immediately take center stage. In Chinese cuisine, they’re not just sides—they’re the backbone of the meal, the blank canvas that lets the other flavors pop.

The Foundation: White Rice and Beyond

Let’s start with the basics: white rice. It’s humble, unassuming, and yet, absolutely essential. Its neutral flavor acts like a sponge, soaking up the sauces and juices from dishes like General Tso’s chicken. It’s the kind of simple perfection that doesn’t need embellishment. But don’t stop there. Jasmine rice—fragrant and slightly sticky—brings an aromatic element that’s impossible to resist. Its floral notes dance around the richness of the chicken, making each bite a little more interesting than the last.

But maybe you’re feeling bold. Maybe you want to up the ante. Fried rice is the answer. It’s the white rice you know and love, but with a twist—a little bit of soy sauce, some scrambled eggs, maybe even a handful of edamame or pickled vegetables tossed in for good measure. The textures and flavors build on one another, offering a contrast that keeps your taste buds engaged.

Noodles: A Tangled Delight

Then, there are the noodles—Chinese noodles, to be exact. They bring their own kind of magic to the table. Lo mein, with its slippery, sauce-coated strands, is a personal favorite. It’s hearty, filling, and has that savory depth that pairs beautifully with something like Kung Pao chicken or Szechuan chicken.

And let’s not forget soba noodles—their earthy flavor offers something a bit more nuanced, especially when tossed with a light soy sauce dressing and some thinly sliced bok choy. They don’t overshadow the main dish, but they certainly don’t fade into the background either.

Balancing Act: The Role of Simplicity

The beauty of rice and noodles is in their versatility. You can dress them up or down, depending on the occasion—or your mood. But the key to a perfect pairing, especially when considering what side dish goes with General Tso chicken, is simplicity. You don’t want a side that competes with the main event. You want one that complements it, that lets the sweet and spicy sauce of the chicken shine while providing a sturdy backdrop.

Brown rice might be your go-to if you’re looking for something with a bit more bite, or maybe a light vegetable stir-fry tossed with some sesame oil and a touch of garlic—simple, yet deeply satisfying. The trick is in knowing when to hold back, when to let the rice or noodles play a supporting role without trying to steal the show.

Pitfalls to Avoid

But beware the common pitfalls. Overloading your noodles with too many flavors can quickly turn them from a side into a second main dish, muddying the waters instead of letting each element of the meal stand out. And don’t fall into the trap of choosing a rice that’s too flavorful on its own; steamed white rice or jasmine rice are popular for a reason—they’re the perfect partners, not the star of the show.

Keep it simple. Keep it balanced. Let the rice and noodles do their job without overcomplicating things. That’s how you create a meal where every bite feels like it’s exactly where it belongs.

Vegetable-Focused Side Dishes

Let’s talk vegetables. They’re often the overlooked sidekick to the main dish, but in Chinese cuisine, they’re anything but. They’re vibrant, crisp, and brimming with life—exactly what you need to balance out the richness of dishes like General Tso’s chicken.

Stir-Fried Perfection

First up, stir-fried vegetables. There’s a reason this method is a staple in Asian kitchens. It’s quick, it’s simple, and it preserves the integrity of the vegetables—their crunch, their color, their freshness. Think broccoli, bok choy, snap peas, all tossed in a hot wok with a touch of sesame oil and a dash of soy sauce. The veggies stay bright and crisp, providing a perfect counterpoint to the sticky, sweet, and spicy glaze of the chicken.

But don’t just stick to the basics. Play around with flavors. Add a sprinkle of garlic or a hint of ginger to bring out the natural sweetness of the greens. Maybe even a splash of rice vinegar for that acidic pop that wakes up your palate between bites of the main dish.

The Simplicity of Steamed Greens

Now, if stir-frying is too much fuss, consider steamed greens. Napa cabbage, baby bok choy, even just some simple edamame—steamed to perfection. The key here is to keep it light. Let the vegetables do the talking. A pinch of salt, maybe a drizzle of light soy sauce, and that’s it. They’ll be a cool, refreshing contrast to the fiery intensity of General Tso’s chicken.

Steamed greens have this way of refreshing the mouth, cleansing it almost, so that every bite of the main dish tastes as good as the first. And they’re not just about balance—they’re about color, too. That bright green on the plate against the deep red sauce? It’s a feast for the eyes before it even reaches your mouth.

The Crunch Factor: Slaws and Salads

And then there’s the crunch. Asian slaws—think finely shredded cabbage, carrots, maybe even some pickled vegetables thrown in—dressed in a tangy soy sauce and rice vinegar mix. The crispness of the slaw cuts through the richness of the chicken, offering a textural contrast that keeps things interesting. It’s fresh, it’s vibrant, and it’s the kind of side that makes you want to keep coming back for more.

Or maybe you go for a simple salad—nothing too heavy, just a light mix of greens, maybe with some soba noodles thrown in, dressed in a delicate sesame oil vinaigrette. It’s about adding that bit of crunch, that bit of freshness that resets your palate and prepares you for the next bite of bold, savory chicken.

Pitfalls to Avoid

But, as with all things, there are pitfalls to be mindful of. Overcooked vegetables? A travesty. They lose their color, their bite, their very essence. And don’t drown them in sauce—let the natural flavors shine through. The vegetables should complement the dish, not compete with it.

The goal here is balance, not just in flavor but in texture and presentation. Vegetables bring that necessary contrast, the light to the chicken’s dark, the crisp to its tender. They’re the unsung heroes of the plate, and when done right, they make the entire meal sing.

Protein-Based Side Dishes

Protein on protein? Now we’re talking. This is where things get a bit decadent, a bit indulgent. Pairing General Tso’s chicken with another protein might sound like overkill, but when done right, it’s a match made in culinary heaven. The trick is in the contrast—finding that perfect balance where each dish enhances the other, rather than overwhelming your taste buds.

Egg Rolls: The Crispy Companion

First up, egg rolls. Crunchy on the outside, savory and satisfying on the inside. These little parcels of joy are filled with a mix of pork, cabbage, and maybe even a hint of ginger. The crispiness of the wrapper is the perfect foil to the tender, sticky chicken. You get that satisfying crackle with every bite, followed by the rich, umami-packed filling that keeps you coming back for more.

Dip them in a bit of sweet chili sauce or just enjoy them as they are. They’re versatile, they’re portable, and they add that bit of crunch that can make or break a meal. Plus, they’re a classic for a reason.

Dumplings: Little Pockets of Flavor

Then, there’s dumplings—steamed, fried, or boiled, take your pick. These little pockets are packed with flavor, whether filled with pork, chicken, or even a vegetable mix. There’s something almost magical about biting into a well-made dumpling. The way the wrapper gives way to the savory filling, the burst of flavor that hits your tongue—it’s pure satisfaction.

And they pair so well with General Tso’s chicken. The dumplings, soft and juicy, contrast with the crispy, slightly sticky chicken. It’s a textural play, a flavor dance, that elevates the entire meal. Drizzle a bit of soy sauce over them, maybe even a touch of rice vinegar for some tang, and you’ve got yourself a side dish that could almost steal the spotlight.

Hot and Sour Soup: A Sipping Delight

Let’s not forget about hot and sour soup. It’s the unsung hero of many a Chinese meal, with its deep, rich broth, filled with tender tofu, pork, and a mix of mushrooms. It’s got a kick, that perfect balance of heat and tang that warms you from the inside out. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s a full experience.

When paired with General Tso’s chicken, the soup’s spiciness complements the sweet and savory notes of the chicken. The broth cuts through the richness, while the tender bits of tofu and pork add a different layer of texture. It’s the kind of combination that makes you want to sit back and savor each spoonful.

Pitfalls to Avoid

But here’s the thing—don’t overdo it. Pairing a heavy, rich protein like General Tso’s chicken with another equally rich side can tip the balance from indulgence to overindulgence. The goal is to complement, not to overwhelm. Keep the flavors distinct but harmonious, the textures varied but balanced. That’s the secret to pulling off a protein-packed plate without it feeling too much.

Each bite should feel intentional, each component of the meal contributing to a greater whole, rather than fighting for attention on the plate.

Bread and Pancake Side Dishes

Sometimes, you need a little something extra to soak up all that goodness on your plate. Bread and pancakes—in all their forms—offer that perfect, carb-loaded comfort. But we’re not talking about any ordinary bread here. In Asian cuisine, bread isn’t just a side, it’s an experience, a textural contrast that can transform a meal.

Scallion Pancakes: Crispy Layers of Delight

Ah, scallion pancakes. There’s something almost magical about them. You start with dough, simple and humble, but once it’s rolled out, brushed with a bit of oil, sprinkled with scallions, and folded into layers, it becomes something much more. Fry it up until it’s golden and crisp on the outside, yet chewy and tender on the inside. The way the edges crunch with each bite, giving way to those soft, oniony layers—it’s the kind of food that makes you close your eyes and just savor the moment.

And when paired with something like General Tso’s chicken? Perfection. The pancake’s subtle savoriness complements the bold flavors of the chicken. It’s like the two were made for each other. The pancake acts as the perfect vehicle to scoop up any leftover sauce, ensuring no drop is wasted.

Steamed Buns: Soft Pillows of Flavor

Now, let’s shift gears to something a bit softer—steamed buns. Fluffy, light, almost cloud-like, these buns are a staple in many Asian cuisines. Whether filled or plain, they offer a gentle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the spicy and savory notes of the main dish.

There’s something about tearing into a steamed bun, the way it gives under your fingers, that’s incredibly satisfying. You could go for a char siu bao—those buns stuffed with sweet and savory barbecued pork—or keep it simple with a plain mantou. Either way, the soft, pillowy texture is the perfect companion to a dish as robust as General Tso’s chicken. The bun absorbs the sauce without becoming soggy, providing a soft, comforting backdrop to the chicken’s boldness.

Sesame Bread: The Nutty Companion

Let’s not forget sesame bread. This one’s a bit heartier, with a denser crumb and that unmistakable nutty flavor that only sesame can provide. The top, crusted with a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds, adds a satisfying crunch that plays beautifully against the tender chicken.

Imagine tearing off a piece, the bread still warm, and using it to mop up the last bits of sauce on your plate. It’s a simple pleasure, but one that elevates the entire meal. The nuttiness of the sesame adds depth to the dish, making every bite just a little more interesting.

Pitfalls to Avoid

But here’s the thing—bread, especially when it’s rich and flavorful, can easily overwhelm the main dish. The key is balance. You don’t want the bread or pancakes to steal the show; they’re there to complement, to enhance, not to outshine. Too much richness, too much flavor, and suddenly, the meal feels heavy, weighed down.

Keep it light, keep it balanced, and let the bread and pancakes do what they do best—soak up the flavors, add texture, and bring the meal together in a way that’s deeply satisfying, yet never overpowering.

Soups and Broths as Side Dishes

There’s something deeply satisfying about a bowl of soup that just can’t be matched by anything else. It’s comfort, warmth, and flavor all wrapped up in one. When you’re thinking about what side dish goes with General Tso chicken, soup might not be the first thing that comes to mind—but trust me, it should be.

Hot and Sour Soup: The Tangy Kick

Let’s start with hot and sour soup. This isn’t your average broth—it’s a symphony of flavors. There’s that initial tang that wakes up your taste buds, followed by a slow burn of heat that lingers just long enough to keep things interesting. It’s loaded with tofu, pork, and a mix of mushrooms, giving it a hearty texture that contrasts beautifully with the lightness of the broth.

Pair this with General Tso’s chicken, and you’ve got a match made in culinary heaven. The soup’s acidity cuts through the chicken’s sweetness, while the heat adds an extra layer of complexity. It’s not just a side dish—it’s a palate cleanser and a flavor enhancer all in one.

Egg Drop Soup: Simplicity at Its Best

Now, if you’re looking for something a bit more understated, egg drop soup is your go-to. There’s a beauty in its simplicity—just a delicate broth, swirls of egg, and maybe a sprinkle of scallions. It’s light, it’s comforting, and it lets the main dish shine.

The silkiness of the egg contrasts with the crispiness of the chicken, creating a textural balance that’s incredibly satisfying. And because the soup is so light, it won’t leave you feeling overly full—just warmed from the inside out.

Wonton Soup: Little Pockets of Joy

And then there’s wonton soup. Oh, how I love wonton soup. Those little pockets of dough, filled with a savory mixture of pork and shrimp, floating in a clear, flavorful broth—it’s like a little gift in every bite. The broth is subtle, a perfect backdrop to the more intense flavors of the wontons themselves.

This soup brings a whole new dimension to the table when paired with General Tso’s chicken. The soft, tender wontons offer a nice contrast to the crispy chicken, and the light broth keeps everything balanced. It’s the kind of side dish that doesn’t just complement the main—it elevates it.

Pitfalls to Avoid

But here’s where things can go wrong—too much salt, too much richness, and suddenly your soup isn’t a side dish anymore; it’s a meal. The key is to keep it light, to let the broth do its job of balancing the flavors rather than competing with them.

You want your soup to refresh, to reset your palate between bites of that sweet, spicy chicken. Keep it simple, keep it subtle, and let the soup enhance the meal, not overshadow it. That’s the secret to a truly great pairing.

Unique and Less Common Side Dishes

When you’ve been around the kitchen block as many times as I have, you start craving something different, something that doesn’t just fit the mold but breaks it—shatters it, even. There’s a thrill in discovering the unexpected, especially when it comes to side dishes. Because let’s face it, there are only so many times you can serve fried rice before your taste buds start begging for a little more excitement.

Pickled Vegetables: A Tangy Twist

Let’s talk pickled vegetables. There’s something electric about that sharp, tangy bite, the way it jolts your palate awake. When you’re digging into something as bold and rich as General Tso’s chicken, that acidic snap from a side of pickled cucumbers, carrots, or daikon radishes can be just the thing you didn’t know you needed. It’s like a palate cleanser and a flavor booster all rolled into one.

These aren’t your garden-variety pickles either. We’re talking about pickles that have been lovingly brined with a touch of rice vinegar, maybe some garlic, a hint of ginger—the kind that make your mouth pucker in the best way possible. They cut through the chicken’s sweet and spicy glaze, balancing the meal and making every bite feel new again.

Edamame with Sea Salt: Simplicity Done Right

Then there’s edamame, those little green pods of joy. They’re usually relegated to appetizer status, but they can hold their own as a side dish, especially when dusted with a good amount of sea salt. You get this beautiful interplay of textures—the pop of the beans against the soft chew of the chicken.

And the flavor? It’s all about contrast. The saltiness of the edamame against the sweet-savory complexity of the chicken is just sublime. Plus, there’s something inherently satisfying about squeezing those little beans out of their pods—it’s like a tiny reward with every bite.

Chinese Tea Eggs: A Marbled Marvel

Now, here’s something you might not expect—Chinese tea eggs. These aren’t just any boiled eggs. These are eggs that have been simmered in a mix of soy sauce, black tea, and spices until they’re infused with a deep, savory flavor. The whites take on a beautiful marbled appearance, and the flavor? Rich, complex, and completely unexpected.

When paired with General Tso’s chicken, these tea eggs add a layer of umami that deepens the overall taste experience. It’s a side dish that’s as much about presentation as it is about flavor, turning something as simple as an egg into a culinary statement.

Pitfalls to Avoid

But with unique sides comes the risk of overcomplication. It’s easy to get carried away with exotic ingredients and intense flavors, but remember—the main dish is the star of the show. The goal is to enhance, not overshadow. Too much acidity, too much salt, too much anything, and you risk throwing off the delicate balance of the meal.

The key is to keep it interesting without going overboard. Let the side dishes surprise and delight, but not at the expense of the harmony on the plate. Balance, as always, is the name of the game.

FAQ on What Side Dish Goes With General Tso Chicken

What vegetable side dishes go well with General Tso’s chicken?

When you’re diving into the bold flavors of General Tso’s chicken, you need something fresh to balance it out. Stir-fried vegetables like bok choy or broccoli are perfect. Their crisp texture and light seasoning bring a necessary contrast, making every bite of chicken even more satisfying.

What type of rice pairs best with General Tso’s chicken?

Jasmine rice is a great companion for General Tso’s chicken. Its slightly sticky texture absorbs the sweet and spicy sauce beautifully, without overwhelming the palate. If you want something heartier, fried rice with edamame and soy sauce adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Can you serve noodles with General Tso’s chicken?

Absolutely, noodles are a fantastic side. Lo mein or soba noodles work well here. They add a different texture and can soak up any extra sauce, complementing the chicken’s sweet and spicy flavors. Lightly stir-fry the noodles with garlic and scallions for an added punch.

Is soup a good side dish for General Tso’s chicken?

Hot and sour soup is an excellent choice. Its tangy, spicy broth cuts through the richness of the chicken, refreshing your palate. For something milder, egg drop soup adds a silky texture that contrasts nicely with the crispy chicken. Either option brings balance to the meal.

What bread can be served with General Tso’s chicken?

Scallion pancakes are a top pick. Their crispy exterior and savory interior make them the perfect partner for General Tso’s chicken. They’re great for soaking up the sauce. If you prefer something softer, steamed buns or sesame bread provide a gentle, comforting balance to the dish.

Can you serve a salad with General Tso’s chicken?

A light Asian slaw with cabbage, carrots, and rice vinegar dressing is ideal. It’s crisp, tangy, and adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, sticky chicken. The crunch from the slaw complements the texture of the chicken, ensuring that each bite remains interesting and balanced.

Are dumplings a good side dish with General Tso’s chicken?

Dumplings, especially steamed pork or vegetable dumplings, are an excellent match. Their soft texture and savory filling balance the crispy, saucy chicken. They add variety to the meal, both in texture and flavor, and the dipping sauce can be tailored to complement the chicken perfectly.

Is there a specific soup that complements General Tso’s chicken?

Wonton soup is a wonderful choice. The light broth, paired with tender pork and shrimp wontons, provides a gentle contrast to the bold flavors of the chicken. The simplicity of the soup enhances the overall meal, making each component shine without overwhelming the palate.

What pickled vegetables work with General Tso’s chicken?

Pickled cucumbers or daikon radishes bring a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness of General Tso’s chicken. The sharpness of the pickles refreshes your taste buds between bites, keeping the meal from feeling too heavy and adding an extra layer of flavor complexity.

Are there any unique side dishes that pair with General Tso’s chicken?

Chinese tea eggs are a unique and flavorful side. These marbled eggs, infused with soy sauce and black tea, add a rich, umami flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet and spicy notes of General Tso’s chicken. Their striking appearance also makes the meal more visually appealing.

Conclusion

In exploring what side dish goes with General Tso chicken, it’s clear that the right accompaniment can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. The key is balancing the dish’s vibrant flavors—sweet, spicy, and tangy—with sides that complement or contrast those characteristics.

Think of steamed jasmine rice for its ability to soak up every bit of sauce, or perhaps stir-fried vegetables that add a fresh crunch. For a touch of indulgence, scallion pancakes or dumplings offer delightful textures and flavors.

As you plan your next meal, consider how each side dish can enhance the overall dining experience. From simple rice options to unique pickled vegetables, the right side not only complements General Tso chicken but also adds depth and variety to your plate.