Irresistible Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe
Looking for a dish that’s both a family favorite and an absolute crowd-pleaser? Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is the ultimate blend of crispy, golden chicken bites smothered in a glossy, tangy-sweet sauce that will leave your taste buds singing. This recipe transforms a takeout classic into an easy-to-make, restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. The best part? It’s baked to perfection, making it a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this magic at home.
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Ingredients and Their Roles
For the Chicken:
1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Tender chunks of chicken form the base of this recipe, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
1/2 cup cornstarch
This coats the chicken, creating a light, crispy exterior that holds up beautifully under the sauce.
2 large eggs, beaten
The egg wash helps the cornstarch adhere to the chicken, creating the perfect foundation for frying.
1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Used for pan-frying, it gives the chicken a light, golden crust without deep-frying.
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
3/4 cup sugar
Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tanginess.
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
The acidic component that provides the signature tangy flavor.
1/4 cup ketchup
Gives the sauce its vibrant red hue and a touch of umami.
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Enhances the savory depth of the sauce.
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor to round out the profile.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces in the cornstarch until evenly coated.
3. Dip each coated piece into the beaten eggs, ensuring a light, even layer.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until they are golden on the outside but not fully cooked through (about 2-3 minutes per side). Place them in the prepared baking dish.
2. Make the Sauce:
1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, and garlic powder until smooth.
2. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken pieces in the baking dish.
3. Bake to Perfection:
1. Bake the chicken uncovered for 50-60 minutes, stirring every 15-20 minutes to ensure the sauce evenly coats the chicken and caramelizes.
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Why This Recipe is a Favorite
This dish is beloved for its perfect balance of flavors—sweet, tangy, and savory—all wrapped around irresistibly crispy chicken. Baking the chicken in the sauce allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a sticky, mouthwatering glaze.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Sweet and Sour Chicken
1. Cut the chicken uniformly to ensure even cooking.
2. Use a nonstick skillet for frying to prevent sticking.
3. Stir the chicken while baking to coat every piece in the sauce and prevent it from drying out.
4. For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
5. Serve immediately for the best texture—crispy chicken with a sticky glaze.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with:
Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a complete, balanced meal.
Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
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Conclusion: Sweet and Simple Perfection
This Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is proof that you don’t need to order takeout to enjoy bold, satisfying flavors. With its crispy chicken, tangy-sweet sauce, and effortless preparation, it’s no wonder this recipe is a hit. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is
guaranteed to impress. So, don’t wait—grab your ingredients and treat yourself to this irresistible homemade classic today!
