Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a tasty sauce. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. The sweet and tangy flavors make it a favorite on many dinner tables.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a great choice for several reasons. First, it is easy to prepare, with simple ingredients that you might already have at home. Second, the dish is healthier than its fried counterparts, as it is baked instead of deep-fried. Last but not least, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Your family and friends will love the sweet and sour flavors, making it perfect for any occasion.

How to Make Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

Making Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a straightforward process. Just follow these easy steps:

Ingredients:

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup corn starch
2 large eggs
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup ketchup
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp. soy sauce
1 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. sea salt

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a 13 x 9-inch pan with parchment paper. Set it aside for later.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
In a large Ziploc bag, add the corn starch and the chicken pieces. Shake the bag to coat the chicken evenly with corn starch.
In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs together until well mixed.
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s sizzling.
Dip the coated chicken pieces in the beaten eggs and then carefully add them to the hot skillet.
Sear the chicken until it is golden brown, then transfer the seared chicken to the prepared pan.
In a medium bowl, combine the sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and sea salt. Whisk until well blended.
Pour the sauce over the chicken in the pan and bake for 1 hour, tossing the chicken halfway through cooking.
Serve your delicious Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken with rice for a complete meal.

How to Serve Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is best served hot. Pair it with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it on its own, or with some crispy fried noodles for extra crunch. Don’t forget to drizzle the extra sauce over the rice for added flavor!

How to Store Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

To store leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

Make sure to coat the chicken well with cornstarch for a crispier texture.
Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less sugar, depending on your preference.
Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers or pineapples to the dish for additional flavor and nutrition.

Variation

For a spicy twist, you can add some red pepper flakes to the sauce to give it a kick. You can also swap the chicken for tofu or shrimp for different protein options.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce. Make sure all your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving for the best results.

Now you are ready to enjoy Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken! Enjoy this easy and tasty dish with your loved ones.