If you’re craving the bold and tangy flavors of General Tso sauce but want to keep it low carb and sugar-free, you’re in for a treat! This homemade Low Carb, Sugar-Free General Tso Sauce recipe is not only simple but also wholesome and satisfying. With a few key ingredients and a straightforward method, you can bring restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen without the guilt. Whether you’re looking to enhance your chicken dishes or toss with veggies, this sauce is versatile and packed with flavor.
Top Reasons to Make Low Carb, Sugar-Free General Tso Sauce

– Healthier Alternative: This sauce replaces traditional sugary ingredients with low-carb sweeteners, making it a great choice for those watching their sugar intake.
– Quick and Easy: With a straightforward cooking process, you can whip up this sauce in no time, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
– Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or sweetness to match your personal preference.
– Deliciously Versatile: While it pairs beautifully with chicken, this sauce is also fantastic on tofu or a medley of stir-fried vegetables.
Gather These Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1″ pieces
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/4 cup green onion, chopped
- 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons low carb sweetener (monk fruit extract, stevia, etc.)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar-free ketchup
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
Cook’s Kit
- Large skillet or wok: Essential for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for flavor balance.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring and ensuring everything cooks evenly.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping chicken and vegetables efficiently.
From Start to Finish: Low Carb, Sugar-Free General Tso Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the cut chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors. This step enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the low sodium soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, low carb sweetener, hoisin sauce, sugar-free ketchup, minced garlic, and red chili flakes. This combination will give your sauce that signature sweet and spicy flavor profile.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Step 4: Add the Broccoli
Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the chicken. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Pour in the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-5 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped green onions. Serve your Low Carb, Sugar-Free General Tso Sauce over a bed of cauliflower rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Easy Ingredient Swaps

- Chicken Thighs: Feel free to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Low Carb Sweetener: If you prefer, you can substitute with erythritol or your favorite sugar substitute.
- Hoisin Sauce: Substitute with a homemade version by mixing soy sauce, peanut butter, and a touch of sweetener.
- Sugar-Free Ketchup: You can make your own by combining tomato paste with vinegar and sweetener.
What Could Go Wrong
- Overcooking the Chicken: Make sure to monitor the chicken closely to avoid drying it out.
- Sauce Too Thick: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water to loosen it up.
- Too Spicy: Adjust the red chili flakes according to your heat preference; you can always start with less.
- Flavor Imbalance: Taste the sauce as it cooks and adjust sweetener or vinegar to achieve your desired flavor.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will deepen in flavor as it sits. When ready to use, simply reheat it in a skillet and add cooked chicken and veggies. This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken and sauce in portions for quick meals later.
Reader Questions
Can I use other vegetables with this sauce?
Absolutely! This Low Carb, Sugar-Free General Tso Sauce pairs perfectly with a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Feel free to get creative with your favorite stir-fry vegetables.
What if I don’t have sesame oil?
If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute it with olive oil or avocado oil. While you may miss some of the nutty flavor, the dish will still turn out delicious.
Can I make this sauce vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this sauce vegetarian by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh, ensuring to marinate it similarly for flavor.
How can I adjust the sweetness level?
You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less of your chosen low carb sweetener. Start with the recommended amount and taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
Serve with These
Hungry for More?
If you enjoyed this Low Carb, Sugar-Free General Tso Sauce, be sure to check out more of our delicious, healthy recipes that satisfy your cravings without the carbs. Explore our collection of stir-fry sauces, marinades, and wholesome meal ideas that make eating healthy a joy!
With this Low Carb, Sugar-Free General Tso Sauce, you can enjoy the flavors you love without compromising your health goals. So, gather your ingredients and get cooking! You won’t regret bringing this delightful dish to the table.

Low Carb, Sugar-Free General Tso Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1" pieces
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 head broccoli cut into florets
- 1/4 cup green onion chopped
- 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons low carb sweetener (monk fruit extract, stevia, etc.)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar-free ketchup
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
Instructions
- Begin by seasoning the cut chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- In a bowl, whisk together the low sodium soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, low carb sweetener, hoisin sauce, sugar-free ketchup, minced garlic, and red chili flakes.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the chicken. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Simmer for about 3-5 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped green onions. Serve over cauliflower rice or alongside steamed vegetables.
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Wok
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Notes
- Feel free to use chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Adjust the sweetness level to your preference by adding more sweetener.
- This sauce can be made a day in advance to enhance flavors.
