Imagine a dish that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors with a crispy, golden crust, all without the need for a deep fryer. That’s exactly what you get with Baked Sweet & Sour Chicken—a delectable blend of savory and sweet that takes a classic takeout favorite and gives it a healthier, homemade twist.
This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that has its roots in a treasured family recipe. I remember the first time I made this for my family—everyone gathered around the table, eager to taste the crispy chicken and that mouthwatering sauce. It was a hit from the first bite, and since then, it’s become a staple in our home. The aroma of the chicken baking in the oven, combined with the tangy scent of the sweet and sour sauce, creates an irresistible anticipation that makes mealtime a special occasion.
Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family on a busy weeknight or looking to impress guests at a gathering, this Baked Sweet & Sour Chicken recipe is a surefire way to please everyone at the table. The crispy chicken is baked to perfection, and the sweet and sour sauce adds a burst of flavor that complements every bite. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a dish that’s both satisfying and scrumptious.
Ingredients
4 boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup cornstarch
2 large eggs
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup ketchup
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan
Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving a crispy exterior while ensuring the chicken cooks evenly.
Prepare Baking Pan: Line a 13″ x 9″ baking pan with parchment paper. This step makes for easy cleanup and prevents the chicken from sticking to the pan.
Step 2: Season and Coat the Chicken
Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the chicken and ensures every bite is well-seasoned.
Coat the Chicken with Cornstarch: Place 1 cup of cornstarch in a large ziplock bag. Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the bag, seal it, and shake vigorously until the chicken is evenly coated with the cornstarch. This coating helps create a crispy texture when baked.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken for Baking
Dip in Egg: In a shallow bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs until well beaten. Heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot and shimmering.
Brown the Chicken: Dip each cornstarch-coated chicken piece into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot skillet. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary, to avoid overcrowding the pan. Brown each piece until it’s golden and crispy on all sides. This step gives the chicken a delicious texture and helps seal in the flavor.
Transfer to Baking Pan: Once browned, transfer the chicken pieces to the prepared baking pan. Arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Step 4: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce
Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup ketchup, 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon sea salt. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Pour the sweet and sour sauce evenly over the chicken pieces in the baking pan. The sauce will infuse the chicken with its tangy, sweet flavor as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Bake: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour, flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure even coating and caramelization of the sauce. This step allows the chicken to become tender and ensures that every piece is coated with the flavorful sauce.
Check for Doneness: Make sure the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The sauce should be thickened and slightly caramelized.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes serving easier.
Garnish and Serve: Serve the Baked Sweet & Sour Chicken over a bed of steamed rice. The rice acts as a perfect accompaniment, soaking up the delicious sauce and complementing the chicken’s flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetable Additions: For a more substantial meal, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or pineapple chunks to the dish. Add them to the pan with the chicken before baking.
Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Ensure the cornstarch is certified gluten-free as well.
Spicy Twist: If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sweet and sour sauce for a spicy kick.
Low-Sugar Option: For a lower sugar version, reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the sauce or use a sugar substitute that measures like sugar.
Conclusion
Baked Sweet & Sour Chicken is a delightful twist on a classic takeout favorite, offering all the beloved flavors of the original but with a healthier, homemade approach. The crispy chicken coated in a tangy, sweet sauce creates a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s easy to prepare, and the results are consistently delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of crispy chicken and luscious sweet and sour sauce makes every bite a flavorful adventure.
So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready to enjoy a homemade version of a takeout classic that’s sure to become a favorite at your table.
