Easy Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

Okay, friends, gather ’round! I’m about to share a recipe that’s been an absolute game-changer in our house. What is my easy sweet and sour chicken recipe? I used to be all about General Tso’s, but this one? What are some of the best sweet, tangy, and savory flavors? What is the best part? My kids are picky eaters. I can eat a lot of food, and that’s saying something!

What is sweet and sour chicken?

What is the ultimate comfort food? Sweet and sour chicken? What is essentially crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces coated in a vibrant, flavorful sauce that’s an incredibly tender, tender chicken. Dance of sweet and sour notes. Does the name spell it out? The beauty of this dish lies in the balance of flavors. Is it just right? What is a warm hug for your taste buds and this easy sweet and sour chicken recipe is so quick to make. Is this a classic movie?

Why I love this recipe?

What is a good recipe for sweet and sour chicken? What I love about this is the flavor, obviously! The sauce is just perfectly balanced – not too sweet, not to sour, just an explosion of flavor. Is this incredibly easy to make? I know, because I’ve timed it! It’s also incredibly cost-efficient. What are some of the most basic ingredients you have in your pantry? No need to break the bank for a fantastic meal. The versatility is amazing. What are some good appetizers to serve over rice? What is your favorite lemon herb chicken recipe? Isn’t it simple?

How do I make sweet and sour chicken?

Quick Overview

What are some easy recipes for sweet and sour chicken? How do I pan fry chicken? What’s the best way to make sweet and sour sauce? What’s the best part? What’s all done in one pan?

Ingredients

For the Chicken: What is the best
– 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes. I prefer chicken breasts, but thighs work too!
– 1/2 cup cornstarch. This is the key to that crispy texture. Don’t skip it!
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for frying. You can also use canola oil.

How do I make Sweet and Sour Sauce?
– 1/2 cup ketchup. Yes, it’s the base of our sauce. Can you use a low-sugar version if you prefer?
– 1/4 cup white vinegar. This gives it that tangy kick.
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Feel free to adjust to your liking.
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce. I use low-sodium to control the saltiness.
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder. Fresh ginger is great too, if you have it!

What are the steps in

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

First, cut your chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. I find that this size cooks evenly and is perfect for popping in your mouth. In a bowl, toss the chicken with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. This creates a light, crispy crust when fried.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together ketchup, white vinegar, soy sauce, cornstarch, and salt. Set aside. What is the difference between garlic powder and ginger powder? What is your sweet and sour magic potion?

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in one layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will not get crispy. Fry for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

How do you serve sweet and sour sauce over fried chicken? What is the best way to cook chicken in a sauce pan? The sauce should be glossy and sticky.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Watch it disappear!

What should I serve it with?

What is a good sweet and sour chicken recipe? What are some of my favorite pairings?

Over Rice:What is your favorite white rice?

With Noodles:Lo mein noodles are great.

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As an Appetizer: WhatWhat are some good appetizers to serve with pineapple and bell peppers?

With Veggies: Steamed broccoli, stir-fried bok choy, or roasted Brussels sprouts add a healthy and delicious side. My family loves it served with simple steamed broccoli. It’s quick, easy and balances the meal out.

How do you make a delicious, sweet and sour chicken?

What are some insider tips to help you nail this easy sweet and sour chicken recipe every time.

Chicken Prep:Make sure to pat the chicken dry before coating it in cornstarch. How do I make it crispy?

Frying Tips: Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken. Work in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.

Sauce Consistency:If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.

Ingredient Swaps:What is your favorite sauce? Feel free to adjust the sweetness and sourness to your liking. Add more sugar or vinegar for a tangier sauce.

Flavor Boosters Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat. Or, stir in some chopped pineapple chunks or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

Chicken Variety: You can use other chicken cuts, but I like using breasts as they keep the calories low.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat this easy sweet and sour chicken recipe like a pro:

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool it completely before storing.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Instructions: To reheat, you can microwave the chicken for a few minutes until heated through. Or, for a crispier result, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Sauce Timing Advice: Store the sauce separately from the chicken when freezing and reheating. This prevents the chicken from getting soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the soy sauce with tamari, a gluten-free alternative. Also, make sure all your other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken! Place the cornstarch-coated chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through. It won’t be as crispy as fried chicken, but it’s still delicious!

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Definitely! Bell peppers, pineapple chunks, and onions are all great additions to the sweet and sour sauce. Add them to the skillet along with the sauce and simmer until tender.

What if I don’t have white vinegar?

You can use apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar as a substitute for white vinegar. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!

Can I use honey instead of sugar?

Yes, you can use honey instead of sugar. Start with a smaller amount, about 2 tablespoons, and adjust to taste. Keep in mind that honey will add a slightly different flavor to the sauce.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my friends! This easy sweet and sour chicken recipe is a total winner for so many reasons. It’s quick, easy, flavorful, and budget-friendly. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will love. If you enjoy this recipe, you should also check out my Spicy Peanut Noodles recipe. They’re both quick, easy and extremely delicious! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below with your thoughts and any variations you tried. Happy cooking!