Sweet and Sour Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet and Sour Chicken is a classic takeout favorite known for its crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a vibrant, tangy-sweet sauce. It’s a perfect balance of flavor and texture, with crunchy vegetables and juicy pineapple chunks complementing the golden chicken. Whether served over rice or on its own, this dish delivers a restaurant-style experience right at home.

ingredients

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

chicken breast or thighscornstarchall-purpose floureggssoy saucegarlicoil (for frying)bell peppers (red and green)onionpineapple chunks (canned or fresh)ketchuprice vinegarbrown sugarsalt and pepper

directions

Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.

In one bowl, whisk eggs. In another, mix cornstarch and flour.

Dip each chicken piece in egg, then coat in the cornstarch-flour mixture.

Heat oil in a deep pan or wok and fry the chicken until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.

In a separate pan or wok, sauté garlic, chopped bell peppers, and onion until slightly tender.

Add pineapple chunks and stir briefly.

In a bowl, whisk together ketchup, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and brown sugar to make the sauce.

Pour the sauce into the vegetable mixture and simmer until slightly thickened.

Add the fried chicken to the pan and toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian version.

Add a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat.

Substitute apple cider vinegar if rice vinegar is unavailable.

Add sliced carrots or snap peas for more crunch and color.

Use boneless pork instead of chicken for a different take.

storage/reheating

Store Sweet and Sour Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to retain crispiness or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through for even crisping.

What makes the sauce “sweet and sour”?

The combination of brown sugar (sweet) and vinegar (sour) creates the classic flavor.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, but thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Is fresh pineapple better than canned?

Fresh pineapple adds a brighter flavor, but canned works perfectly for convenience.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the chicken and sauce separate until reheating to maintain crispiness.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil.

Can I double the sauce?

Absolutely—if you like more saucy dishes, feel free to increase the sauce ingredients.

Can I use a wok?

Yes, a wok is ideal for even heat distribution and quick stir-frying.

What goes well with Sweet and Sour Chicken?

Steamed rice, fried rice, or even noodles make great pairings.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can use gluten-free soy sauce and flour alternatives.

Conclusion

Sweet and Sour Chicken is a timeless favorite that brings bold, comforting flavors to your dinner table. With crispy chicken, colorful veggies, and a glossy sauce bursting with tangy sweetness, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Perfect for weeknights or impressing guests, this dish is a keeper for any recipe collection.

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