Why Make This Recipe
Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the crunch of fried chicken with the tangy flavors of a sweet sauce. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. It is colorful, tasty, and sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it is easy to make and can be served over rice or noodles, making it a versatile choice for any night of the week.
How to Make Sweet and Sour Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked brown or white rice or Chinese noodles for serving
Directions:
- In a bowl, mix the sugar, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to create the sauce.
- Dredge the chicken pieces in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and fry until golden and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add onions, bell peppers, and pineapple, sautéing until tender.
- Add the chicken back to the skillet and pour the sauce over it. Mix well and cook for a few minutes until heated through.
- Serve over rice or noodles.
How to Serve Sweet and Sour Chicken
Sweet and Sour Chicken is best served hot. You can place it over a bed of steamed rice or toss it with Chinese noodles. Garnish with some chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch. This dish makes a satisfying meal that’s great for lunch or dinner.
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 refrigerate. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it in a suitable container for up to 2 months.
Tips to Make Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Make sure the chicken pieces are cut evenly for uniform cooking.
- For extra crunch, you can double-dip the chicken in flour.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar based on your taste.
- Adding additional vegetables like broccoli or snap peas can enhance the dish.
Variations
You can customize Sweet and Sour Chicken by substituting the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even beef. Each variation will bring a unique flavor profile to the dish. You can also experiment with different vegetables or sauces to create your perfect blend.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking for the best results.
2. Is Sweet and Sour Chicken spicy?
No, this dish is not spicy. It is sweet and tangy with a mild flavor. You can add a little chili sauce if you like some heat.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables in advance. Just cook the chicken and combine everything right before serving for the best taste.
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces Ensure even size for uniform cooking.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour For dredging the chicken.
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil For frying.
- Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup sugar Adjust sweetness to taste.
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Vegetables and Fruit
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
For Serving
- Cooked as needed brown or white rice or Chinese noodles For serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, mix the sugar, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to create the sauce.
- Dredge the chicken pieces in flour, shaking off any excess.
Cooking
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and fry until golden and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add onions, bell peppers, and pineapple, sautéing until tender.
- Add the chicken back to the skillet and pour the sauce over it. Mix well and cook for a few minutes until heated through.
Serving
- Serve hot over rice or noodles, optionally garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.