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Sweet and Sour Chicken is a classic dish that combines the tangy flavor of vinegar with the sweetness of sugar, creating a deliciously balanced meal. This beloved takeout favorite is easier to make at home than you might think, and the result is a fresh, vibrant dish that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the combination of savory and sweet flavors. It’s a versatile dish that can be served with rice or noodles, and it’s packed with colorful vegetables, making it a nutritious choice. The recipe is straightforward, and you can easily adapt it to your taste preferences. Plus, making it at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier version of this popular dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delectable Sweet and Sour Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup cornstarch
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
1/2 cup rice vinegar
1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
Vegetables:
1 bell pepper, cut into chunks (red or green)
1 onion, cut into chunks
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
2 carrots, sliced
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:
Large skillet or wok
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Tongs or a slotted spoon
Paper towels
Cutting board and knife
Read more on next page
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Preparing the ChickeN
Season the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Coat the Chicken: Place the cornstarch in a bowl and the beaten eggs in another bowl. Dip each piece of chicken in cornstarch, then in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with flour.
Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.
Making the Sweet and Sour Sauce
Mix the Sauce Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, and soy sauce.
Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the sauce mixture and stir well.
Cooking the Vegetables
Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same skillet or wok, add a little more oil if needed. Stir-fry the bell pepper, onion, and carrots until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the Pineapple: Add the pineapple chunks and stir to combine.
Combining Everything
Add the Sauce: Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the vegetables and pineapple. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
Add the Chicken: Return the fried chicken pieces to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce until everything is well coated and heated through.
Final Touches
Serve: Serve the Sweet and Sour Chicken over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.
Tips and Variations
Healthier Option: For a lighter version, skip the frying and stir-fry the chicken pieces directly until fully cooked.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or baby corn to the mix.
Extra Heat: Add a touch of heat by including a chopped chili pepper or a dash of chili flakes in the sauce.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Sweet and Sour Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Perfect Pairings
Sweet and Sour Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed white or brown rice, fried rice, or even plain noodles. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a simple cucumber salad or egg drop soup.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful alternative. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces like the chicken breasts.
What can I use instead of rice vinegar?
You can substitute rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar if needed. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
If your sauce isn’t thick enough, you can add more cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and water) and cook for an additional minute or two until the desired thickness is reached.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them when ready to serve. Reheat on the stove for the best results.
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I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delicious Sweet and Sour Chicken as much as I do. If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking!
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