Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe

This Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe brings a delightful mix of tangy and sweet flavors to your table, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With tender chicken pieces enveloped in a vibrant sauce, complemented by colorful veggies and juicy pineapple, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for the family or hosting friends, this recipe promises to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Flavorful Sauce: The blend of ketchup, vinegar, and sugar creates a uniquely sweet and tangy sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Colorful Veggies: Adding red and yellow bell peppers along with onion not only enhances the taste but also makes the dish visually appealing.
• Versatile Ingredients: This recipe allows for easy substitutions based on what you have on hand, making it adaptable for any pantry.
• Family-Friendly: The mild flavors make this a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the essential tools before you start. Having everything ready will help you follow the recipe without interruptions.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan: Perfect for achieving that crispy texture when frying the chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining your sauce ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the pan.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 500 g boneless (skinless chicken breast, diced into 2.5 cm cubes)
• 6 tablespoons cornstarch
• 50 ml vegetable oil for frying
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetables

• 1 onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (chopped)

For the Sauce

• 6 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 6 tablespoons demerara or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
• 2 cloves garlic (grated)

For the Pineapple

• 432 g tin pineapple pieces (drained; reserve the juice)

How to Make Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a mixing bowl, season the diced chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Coat each piece evenly with cornstarch.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the coated chicken pieces and fry until golden brown on all sides. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

1. In the same pan, add sliced onion and bell peppers.
2. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are tender yet crisp.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

1. In a separate bowl, combine ketchup, cider vinegar, demerara sugar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and reserved pineapple juice.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are combined smoothly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return chicken to the pan with sautéed vegetables.
2. Pour the sauce over everything and stir well.
3. Add drained pineapple pieces and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your Sweet And Sour Chicken over rice or noodles for a complete meal! Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe

Serving Sweet and Sour Chicken is as enjoyable as making it. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and can be presented in creative ways to delight your family or guests.

Over Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant option that absorbs the sauce well.
• Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that adds a nutty flavor.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb substitute perfect for those watching their intake.

With Noodles

• Egg Noodles: Soft and chewy noodles that complement the dish.
• Rice Noodles: Gluten-free option that soaks up the sweet and sour flavors beautifully.

As a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Fresh lettuce cups filled with chicken, adding a crunchy texture.
• Tortilla Wraps: Soft tortillas rolled with chicken and veggies for a fun twist.

Garnished

• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle on top for added crunch and a touch of elegance.
• Chopped Green Onions: Brightens up the dish and adds fresh flavor.

How to Perfect Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe

For the best Sweet and Sour Chicken experience, keep these tips in mind to enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality chicken will elevate the taste significantly.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If too thick, add reserved pineapple juice for a smoother sauce.
• Fry Chicken Properly: Ensure oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
• Add Vegetables Last: Stir-fry vegetables briefly to maintain their crunch and vibrant color.
• Marinate Chicken: Letting the chicken sit in soy sauce for 15 minutes enhances flavor depth.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe

Complement your Sweet and Sour Chicken with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal’s overall experience.

1. Fried Rice: A classic side packed with flavor, perfect for soaking up sauce.
2. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots adds nutrition.
3. Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with veggies for a crunchy contrast.
4. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing salad with vinegar dressing balances the dish’s sweetness.
5. Quinoa Salad: Healthy grain salad mixed with herbs provides texture and nutrients.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter offer a comforting touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when preparing a flavorful dish like Sweet And Sour Chicken. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Bold phrase: Not Marinating the Chicken – Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Marinate it for at least 30 minutes for enhanced taste.
• Bold phrase: Overcooking the Vegetables – Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Add them in stages to maintain their crunch and color.
• Bold phrase: Skipping the Cornstarch Coating – Neglecting to coat the chicken with cornstarch may result in a less crispy texture. Ensure even coating for that perfect crunch.
• Bold phrase: Incorrect Sauce Ratios – Using too much or too little of any sauce ingredient can throw off the balance. Measure carefully for that ideal sweet and tangy flavor.
• Bold phrase: Ignoring Pineapple Juice – The juice adds depth to your sauce. Don’t discard it; use it for a more flavorful dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe

• Place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pan, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe.

Can I use other meats in this Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or beef based on your preference.

What vegetables work well in this recipe?

You can use snap peas, broccoli, or carrots as delicious alternatives to bell peppers.

How spicy is this Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe?

The recipe is not spicy but you can add chili flakes or fresh chilies if you prefer some heat.

Can I make this Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it ahead, store it properly, and simply reheat when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is not only quick and easy but also customizable. Feel free to adjust the sweetness or add more veggies according to your taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Sweet And Sour Chicken

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delightful dish that beautifully balances tangy and sweet flavors, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This quick and easy recipe features tender chicken pieces coated in a vibrant sauce, complemented by colorful vegetables and juicy pineapple. In just 20 minutes, you can create a meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Serve this flavorful dish over rice or noodles for a complete dinner experience that everyone will love.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 500 g boneless, skinless chicken breast (diced)
• 6 tablespoons cornstarch
• 50 ml vegetable oil for frying
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (chopped)
• 6 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 6 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
• 2 cloves garlic (grated)
• 432 g canned pineapple pieces (drained; reserve the juice)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Season diced chicken with salt and pepper, then coat with cornstarch.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat; fry chicken until golden brown. Remove from pan.
3. Sauté onion and bell peppers in the same pan for about 5 minutes until tender yet crisp.
4. In a bowl, mix ketchup, cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and reserved pineapple juice until smooth.
5. Return chicken to the pan along with sautéed vegetables; pour sauce over everything.
6. Add drained pineapple pieces; cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until heated through and serve.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 19g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 75mg