Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe

This Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is a delightful combination of tangy and sweet flavors, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The tender chicken pieces are enveloped in a vibrant sauce, paired with colorful vegetables and juicy pineapple. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also brings a taste of takeout right to your kitchen, suitable for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of just 45 minutes, this recipe ensures you can serve up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavorful Experience: The balance of sweetness from the pineapple and the tang from the vinegar creates an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables based on seasonality or personal preference, making this dish adaptable to your taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this dish, making it an ideal choice for family meals.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe holds up well in the fridge, making it excellent for leftovers or meal prep for the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe, having the right tools will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: A wok heats evenly, allowing for quick cooking of chicken and vegetables while keeping them tender.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop ingredients efficiently and minimizes mess in your kitchen.

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

How to Make Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the chicken into cubes, slice the onion, chop the bell peppers, and grate the ginger and garlic.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, toss the diced chicken with cornstarch. Ensure each piece is evenly coated. This will help create a crispy texture when frying.

Step 3: Heat Oil in Wok

Heat vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces. Fry until golden brown on all sides. Remove them from the wok and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

In the same wok, add onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften but remain crunchy.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, and reserved pineapple juice.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the fried chicken to the wok with sautéed vegetables. Pour over the sauce mixture and stir well. Add pineapple pieces last to avoid breaking them apart. Cook on medium heat for another 5-7 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy your homemade Sweet And Sour Chicken!

How to Serve Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe

This Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. It pairs wonderfully with various side dishes and can be served in creative ways to elevate your meal experience.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a classic combination that soaks up the sauce.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fresh twist, wrap the chicken mixture in crisp lettuce leaves for a light and crunchy meal.

With Noodles

• Pair your sweet and sour chicken with stir-fried noodles tossed in soy sauce for an Asian-inspired feast.

As a Salad Topping

• Use the chicken as a topping on mixed greens, adding some sesame seeds for an extra crunch and flavor.

In a Sandwich

• Create a delicious sandwich by placing the sweet and sour chicken between two slices of bread or in a bun, adding extra veggies if desired.

How to Perfect Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe

Achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your Sweet and Sour Chicken is key. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and ripe pineapple will add vibrant flavors that canned or frozen alternatives may lack.

• Adjust Sauce Levels: Feel free to tweak the sweetness or tanginess of your sauce according to personal preference by adjusting sugar or vinegar amounts.

• Ensure Proper Coating: Coat your chicken evenly with cornstarch before frying for that delightful crispy texture.

• Stir-Fry Quickly: Cook the chicken over high heat quickly to ensure it’s tender yet cooked through without becoming dry.

• Let it Rest: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe

Complementing your Sweet and Sour Chicken with the right sides can transform your meal into something special. Here are some great options:

1. Fried Rice: A flavorful mix of rice, vegetables, and soy sauce makes an excellent accompaniment.

2. Steamed Broccoli: This healthy green side adds color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the chicken.

3. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with veggies provide an additional crunch that pairs well with the soft chicken.

4. Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, cucumber, and bell peppers offers a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.

5. Garlic Bread: A simple garlic bread can help soak up any remaining sauce from your plate while adding delicious flavor.

6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, making it a great foil for sweet flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common errors can make your Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe a success. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the cornstarch: Not coating the chicken in cornstarch can lead to a soggy texture. Ensure you toss the chicken pieces in cornstarch before frying for a crispy finish.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Sauté them until they’re just tender to keep a nice crunch.
• Ignoring the sauce balance: Using too much sugar or vinegar can overpower the dish. Taste and adjust the sauce as you go, ensuring a perfect sweet and tangy flavor.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Stale garlic or ginger can dull the flavors of your dish. Always use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
• Neglecting to reserve pineapple juice: Discarding the pineapple juice wastes flavor potential. Use it in your sauce for added sweetness and moisture.

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 cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2–3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and bake covered for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring often until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium heat, adding a splash of reserved pineapple juice if needed to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe:

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

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef according to your preference.

What can I serve with Sweet And Sour Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice or noodles, making it a complete meal.

How do I adjust the sweetness in my Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe?

Feel free to modify the sugar amount based on your taste preferences; start with less and add more if needed.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers during cooking for an extra kick.

How long does it take to prepare this Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe?

The total time is approximately 45 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors that appeals to many palates. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or protein options. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious homemade meal!

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

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Sweet And Sour Chicken

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe, a delicious stir-fry that brings the essence of Asian cuisine right to your dining table. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish features tender chicken coated in a crispy layer and tossed with colorful vegetables and juicy pineapple. The combination of tangy vinegar and sweet pineapple creates a delightful balance that will impress your family and guests alike. Easy to prepare and customizable with seasonal veggies, this meal is sure to become a household favorite.

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Ingredients

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• 500 g boneless skinless chicken breast
• 6 tablespoons cornstarch
• 50 ml vegetable oil
• 1 onion
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 yellow bell pepper
• 6 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 6 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic
• 432 g tin pineapple pieces

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Instructions

1. Gather all ingredients and chop the chicken, onion, bell peppers, ginger, and garlic.
2. Coat the diced chicken with cornstarch in a mixing bowl until evenly covered.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat, then fry the coated chicken until golden brown. Set aside.
4. In the same wok, sauté the onion and bell peppers for about 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
5. Mix ketchup, cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and reserved pineapple juice in a small bowl.
6. Return fried chicken to the wok with sautéed vegetables; pour over the sauce and stir gently. Add pineapple pieces last and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until heated through.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 680 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg