Sweet and Sour Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delightful mix of textures and flavors: crispy chicken, juicy pineapple, and a rich, tangy sauce. The dish is not only incredibly tasty but also quick to make, making it a perfect option for busy nights when you’re craving something flavorful and satisfying. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1/2 cup cornstarch

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

• 1 cup pineapple chunks

• 1 bell pepper, chopped

• 1/2 cup white vinegar

• 1/4 cup ketchup

• 1/3 cup brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Coat the Chicken: Coat chicken pieces in cornstarch, then dip them into the beaten eggs.

2. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.

3. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate pan, combine white vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

4. Add Pineapple and Bell Pepper: Add the pineapple chunks and chopped bell pepper to the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.

5. Combine: Toss the fried chicken pieces into the sauce mixture, stirring to coat the chicken evenly. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

6. Serve: Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian version of this dish.

• Spicy: Add a dash of chili flakes or a bit of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy twist.

• Vegetables: Add other vegetables like carrots, peas, or onions to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. For the crispiest chicken, reheat in a skillet over medium heat.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to fry the chicken just before serving to keep it crispy.

What can I serve with Sweet and Sour Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or even a side of sautéed vegetables.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple works great in this recipe! Just cut it into bite-sized chunks.

How can I make the sauce sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more brown sugar or honey to the sauce mixture.

Conclusion

Sweet and Sour Chicken is a perfect combination of crispy, tangy, and sweet flavors that are sure to satisfy any craving. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for serving to family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a fun take on a classic favorite, this recipe is sure to be a hit!