Irresistible Sweet and Sour Chicken: A Family Favorite

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There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and tangy flavors in a classic Sweet and Sour Chicken dish. I remember the first time I tried this recipe—my kitchen was filled with the irresistible aroma of caramelized pineapple, crispy chicken, and the zesty tang of vinegar. It instantly became a family favorite, making its way to our dinner table whenever we craved a comforting yet exciting meal. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!

Recipe Overview

Prep Time	Cook Time	Servings
15 minutes	20 minutes	4 servings

What is Sweet and Sour Chicken?

Sweet and Sour Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish that features crispy, golden-brown chicken coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce made with a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. The sauce typically includes ingredients like pineapple juice, vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce, giving it that signature taste.

Ingredients for sweet and sour chicken recipe

For the Chicken:

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
½ cup cornstarch
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

½ cup ketchup
¼ cup rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
½ cup pineapple juice
½ cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
½ cup pineapple chunks
½ cup diced onions

What is Sweet and Sour Chicken?

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Dredge each piece in cornstarch, dip it in beaten eggs, and coat it with flour for a crispy texture.
Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce

In a small bowl, mix ketchup, rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and pineapple juice.
Heat a large pan over medium heat and add a little oil.
Sauté bell peppers, onions, and pineapple chunks for about 2 minutes until slightly tender.
Pour in the sauce mixture and bring it to a simmer.
Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Add the crispy chicken to the pan and toss until well coated with the sauce.
Cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring the chicken is evenly covered and heated through.
Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

What to Serve with Sweet and Sour Chicken

Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice
Stir-fried vegetables (broccoli, snap peas, carrots)
Spring rolls or egg rolls
Hot and sour soup

Tips for the Best Sweet and Sour Chicken

Crispy Chicken: Double-coating with cornstarch and flour ensures an extra crispy texture.
Oil Temperature: Maintain the frying oil at 350°F (175°C) to get a perfect golden crust.
Balance the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness or acidity by tweaking the sugar and vinegar amounts.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the sauce separately from the fried chicken for up to 2 months. Reheat the chicken in an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
Reheating: Heat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Protein Swap: Use shrimp, tofu, or pork instead of chicken.
Gluten-Free Version: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for heat.

Conclusion

Sweet and Sour Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a delightful fusion of flavors that brings comfort and joy to any table. Whether you’re recreating a takeout favorite or exploring new flavors, this dish is an easy and satisfying way to impress your family and friends. Try it today and experience the perfect harmony of crispy, tangy, and sweet in every bite!