why make this recipe
Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir Fry is a delightful dish that hits all the right notes. It combines the juicy taste of chicken with colorful vegetables and a tangy sauce that is both sweet and savory. This quick and easy meal is perfect for busy weeknights or even casual gatherings. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults!
how to make Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients :
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
Directions :
- Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and water until smooth. Set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes.
- Add veggies: Stir in chopped peppers and sauté for 3–4 minutes until just tender.
- Toss in sauce: Pour sauce into the skillet and stir until it thickens and evenly coats the chicken and peppers (about 2–3 minutes).
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds if using. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
how to serve Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir Fry
Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir Fry is best served hot, straight from the skillet. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice or toss it with your favorite noodles for a satisfying meal. You can also offer extra sauce on the side for those who like it a little saucier!
how to store Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir Fry
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will be good for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or heat it in the microwave until hot.
tips to make Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir Fry
- Cut chicken and vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
- Feel free to add more veggies like broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less brown sugar based on your taste.
variation
You can easily customize this dish. Try adding pineapple chunks for a fruity twist or swapping chicken for shrimp or tofu to fit your dietary needs.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: It’s better to use fresh chicken for the best texture. If using frozen chicken, make sure to fully thaw and drain it before cooking.
Q: Is there a way to make it healthier?
A: Yes! Use less sugar in the sauce and add more vegetables. You can also use low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on sodium.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. However, it’s best to cook the chicken and vegetables fresh for the best taste and texture.
Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir Fry
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces Use fresh chicken for the best texture.
- 1 each red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 each green bell pepper, chopped
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil For cooking.
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional) For garnish.
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp soy sauce Use low-sodium for a healthier option.
- 2 tbsp brown sugar Adjust sweetness to taste.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch For thickening the sauce.
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and water until smooth. Set aside.
Cooking
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook until lightly browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes.
- Stir in chopped peppers and sauté for 3–4 minutes until just tender.
- Pour sauce into the skillet and stir until it thickens and evenly coats the chicken and peppers (about 2–3 minutes).
Serving
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds if using. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.