Sweet and sour chicken is a classic dish that has earned a cherished place in the hearts of many. The dish combines the crispy, succulent texture of chicken with a tangy, flavorful sauce that creates a delightful balance of tastes. For me, sweet and sour chicken brings back fond memories of family dinners and celebrations. I vividly remember my mom making this dish on special occasions, filling the kitchen with an irresistible aroma that made everyone eager to gather around the table.
Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a fantastic alternative to the traditional deep-fried version, offering all the delicious flavors with a lighter touch. The baking method ensures that the chicken retains its crispy texture while absorbing the vibrant flavors of the sweet and sour sauce. This recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish at gatherings.
Ingredients
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
½ cup cornstarch
2 large eggs, beaten
¼ cup vegetable oil
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
¾ cup sugar
½ cup apple cider vinegar
¼ cup ketchup
1 tablespoon soy sauce
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius). This ensures that the oven is at the perfect temperature for baking the chicken and allowing the sauce to caramelize beautifully. Lightly oil a baking dish or coat it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. A 9×13-inch baking dish works well for this recipe.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, and garlic powder to create a deliciously tangy and sweet sauce. The sugar and vinegar provide the classic sweet and tangy balance, while the ketchup and soy sauce add depth of flavor. Set the sauce aside; it will be used to coat the chicken later.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Place the chicken chunks into a large bowl and season them generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step enhances the flavor of the chicken and ensures that every bite is well-seasoned. Make sure the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning.
Step 4: Coat with Cornstarch
Sprinkle the cornstarch over the seasoned chicken. Gently toss the chicken chunks until they are evenly coated with the cornstarch. The cornstarch helps create a crispy exterior when the chicken is baked. This step is crucial for achieving that satisfying crunch in the final dish.
Step 5: Dip in Beaten Eggs
Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, making sure it is thoroughly coated. The egg coating helps the cornstarch adhere to the chicken, resulting in a crispy texture once baked. Allow any excess egg to drip off before moving to the next step.
Step 6: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook them for approximately 1-2 minutes, or until they are golden brown. The goal here is not to cook the chicken through but to achieve a crispy exterior. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Step 7: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Place the partially cooked chicken into the prepared baking dish. Make sure the pieces are spread out evenly. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. The sauce will not only flavor the chicken but also help create a delightful caramelized coating during baking.
Step 8: Bake in the Oven
Put the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 55 minutes. Every 15 minutes, turn the chicken pieces to ensure an even coating of the thickened sauce. This periodic turning allows the sauce to caramelize evenly and ensures that all sides of the chicken get a crispy coating.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken is baked to perfection and the sauce has thickened and caramelized, remove the dish from the oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.
Enjoy your homemade Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken with a side of steamed rice or noodles. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The crispy chicken, combined with the tangy and sweet sauce, offers a flavor experience that’s both comforting and delightful.
Variations and Substitutions
Chicken: You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed.
Sauce: If you prefer a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. For a more authentic flavor, substitute rice vinegar for apple cider vinegar.
Vegetables: Add bell peppers, onions, or pineapple chunks to the dish for extra texture and flavor. Simply stir them into the chicken and sauce before baking.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Summary
Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that captures the essence of this beloved dish with a healthier twist. The crispy, golden chicken combined with the tangy-sweet sauce creates a satisfying meal that is both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. The ease of preparation and the delicious results make it a fantastic choice for any occasion. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful goodness of homemade sweet and sour chicken and savor the memories it helps create!
