Why Make This Recipe
Sweet and sour chicken is a delightful dish that brings a mix of flavors to your table. It combines tender chicken with vibrant vegetables and a tangy sauce. This recipe is not only tasty but also quick and easy to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners.
How to Make Sweet and Sour Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
Directions
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned.
- Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the bell peppers and pineapple, and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
- Pour in the sweet and sour sauce and soy sauce, mix well, and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
- Serve hot over cooked rice.
How to Serve Sweet and Sour Chicken
Sweet and sour chicken is best served hot, over a bed of fluffy cooked rice. You can garnish it with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation. This dish also pairs well with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad.
How to Store Sweet and Sour Chicken
To store leftover sweet and sour chicken, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Make sure to cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces for even cooking.
- If you want it spicier, add some red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Use fresh pineapple for a sweeter taste, but canned pineapple works well too!
Variation
For a healthier option, you can replace the chicken with tofu or shrimp. You can also add other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots to make it more colorful.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but you should thaw it completely before cooking for best results.
2. What can I serve with sweet and sour chicken?
It goes well with rice, noodles, or a fresh green salad.
3. Is sweet and sour chicken gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free soy sauce, this dish can be made gluten-free. Always check the labels on your sauces.
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup pineapple chunks Fresh or canned pineapple can be used
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce Use gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free option
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil For cooking
- to taste salt and pepper
- as needed cooked rice for serving Served on the side
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned.
- Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the bell peppers and pineapple, and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
- Pour in the sweet and sour sauce and soy sauce, mix well, and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
- Serve hot over cooked rice.