Name: Baked Sweet And Sour Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Chinese-American
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup cornstarch; 2 eggs, beaten; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup pineapple chunks; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 1 cup ketchup; 1/2 cup white vinegar; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening the sauce)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Baked Sweet And Sour Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with tender chicken pieces. This recipe is a favorite among many for its unique taste and simple preparation method. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its delicious aroma and taste.

Sweet and sour chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish that has been adapted and enjoyed worldwide. The combination of crispy chicken coated in a sticky, flavorful sauce makes it a comforting and satisfying meal option. By baking the chicken instead of deep-frying, you can enjoy a healthier version of this classic dish without compromising on taste.

In this article, we will explore the key ingredients needed to make baked sweet and sour chicken, the step-by-step instructions to prepare it, various recipe variations to customize the dish to your liking, helpful tips for perfecting the recipe, and finally, some frequently asked questions to address any queries you may have.

Ingredients

To make baked sweet and sour chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1 cup cornstarch

– 2 eggs, beaten

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 cup pineapple chunks

– 1 bell pepper, diced

– 1 onion, chopped

– 1 cup ketchup

– 1/2 cup white vinegar

– 1/4 cup soy sauce

– 1 cup brown sugar

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening the sauce)

Steps

Follow these steps to prepare and bake sweet and sour chicken:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then dip them in the beaten eggs and coat them in cornstarch. Place the coated chicken in the baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a saucepan, combine the ketchup, white vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and pineapple juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Add the cornstarch-water mixture and stir until the sauce thickens. Add the pineapple chunks, bell pepper, and onion to the sauce.

Step 3: Combine and Bake

Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the baked chicken in the dish. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.

Variations

Here are some variations you can try to customize your baked sweet and sour chicken:

Vegetarian Option

Replace the chicken with tofu or cauliflower florets for a vegetarian version of this dish. Follow the same coating and baking process for the tofu or cauliflower.

Spicy Twist

Add chopped red chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick. Adjust the spice level according to your preference.

Healthy Substitutes

Use whole wheat flour instead of cornstarch for coating the chicken, and opt for a sugar substitute like honey or maple syrup to reduce the sugar content in the sauce.

Tips

Follow these tips to ensure your baked sweet and sour chicken turns out perfectly:

Coat the Chicken Evenly

Make sure each chicken piece is coated evenly in the cornstarch and egg mixture to achieve a crispy texture after baking.

Adjust Sweetness

Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the amount of brown sugar to your desired level of sweetness. You can also add a splash of vinegar for a tangier flavor.

Serve Hot

For the best taste and texture, serve the baked sweet and sour chicken hot out of the oven. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Baked Sweet And Sour Chicken is a classic dish that never fails to satisfy cravings for a flavorful and comforting meal. By following this recipe, you can enjoy a healthier version of this beloved dish without sacrificing taste. Experiment with different variations and ingredients to create a personalized version that suits your preferences.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about baked sweet and sour chicken:

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier and more flavorful result. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

How Long Will Baked Sweet And Sour Chicken Last in the Fridge?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I Freeze Baked Sweet And Sour Chicken?

While the texture may change slightly upon thawing, you can freeze baked sweet and sour chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Baked Sweet And Sour Chicken

Introduction

Ingredients