The BEST Easy Sweet And Sour Chicken

This easy sweet and sour chicken recipe is a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal that’s quick to make and bursting with flavor. Crispy chicken pieces are coated in a tangy, sweet sauce that’s both savory and mouthwatering. Whether you’re looking to serve a family dinner, impress guests, or just treat yourself to something satisfying, this recipe is a perfect go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sweet and sour chicken is the perfect combination of crispy, tender chicken pieces and a sauce that’s both tangy and sweet. The recipe is easy to follow, using simple ingredients that you probably already have at home. It’s fast (ready in under 30 minutes), making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. The best part is, you can enjoy the flavors of takeout-style sweet and sour chicken without the added cost of ordering in!

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for sauce thickening)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In one bowl, lightly beat the egg. In another bowl, add the cornstarch. Dip each chicken piece into the egg, then coat it thoroughly in cornstarch.
2. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) and fry for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
3. Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce: In a separate saucepan, whisk together vinegar, ketchup, sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, ground ginger, and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, mix the 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water to form a slurry, then add it to the sauce to thicken it. Stir for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
4. Coat the Chicken: Add the fried chicken pieces back into the skillet and pour the sweet and sour sauce over them. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce.
5. Serve: Serve the sweet and sour chicken over steamed rice or with your favorite vegetables. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Add bell peppers, onions, or pineapple to the dish for extra flavor and color.
• Use Different Proteins: While chicken is classic, you can use shrimp, tofu, or even beef for a different twist.
• Spicy Sweet and Sour: For a spicy kick, add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover sweet and sour chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent the sauce from thickening too much. Alternatively, you can microwave it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier, more flavorful alternative to chicken breasts.

2. Can I make this dish in advance?

While the chicken is best served crispy, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Fry the chicken fresh when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

You can use frozen chicken, but be sure to fully thaw it before coating and frying.

4. How do I make the sauce less sweet?

If you find the sauce too sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar or add a bit more vinegar for tanginess.

5. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. However, the chicken won’t be as crispy as when it’s fried.

6. What can I serve with sweet and sour chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables. You can also add some steamed broccoli or a simple green salad.

7. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the sweet and sour chicken. Just make sure to store the chicken and sauce separately to maintain the crispiness. Reheat the chicken in the oven before adding the sauce.

8. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce isn’t thick enough, add a little more cornstarch mixed with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce.

9. Can I make this recipe healthier?

You can lighten up the dish by baking the chicken instead of frying it, using less sugar, or opting for a sugar substitute.

10. Can I use a different kind of vinegar?

You can substitute apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar, though the flavor may vary slightly from traditional white vinegar.

Conclusion

The BEST Easy Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delicious, simple recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. With tender chicken coated in a crispy shell and drenched in a tangy-sweet sauce, it’s the perfect balance of flavor. Plus, it’s quick to make and customizable to your tastes. Try it tonight for a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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