Sweet and Sour Chicken
A vibrant and flavorful Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe that evokes joyful family memories and brings a touch of warmth to your dining table.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces Using fresh meat for a juicy texture.
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil For frying the chicken until crisp.
- Salt and pepper to taste Just a touch of seasoning.
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup sugar Adjust according to your taste.
- 1/2 cup vinegar Adds tangy flavor.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce Enhances the umami flavor.
- 1/4 cup ketchup Adds richness to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup cornstarch Helps thicken the sauce.
For the Veggies
- 2 cups bell peppers, chopped (red, green, yellow) Adds crunch and color.
- 1 cup pineapple chunks Sweet and juicy addition.
For Serving
- Cooked rice or Chinese noodles Best served to soak up the sauce.
Instructions
Make the Sauce
- In a medium bowl, combine sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, ketchup, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth.
Prepare the Chicken
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
Add the Bell Peppers and Pineapple
- Toss in the chopped bell peppers and pineapple chunks. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until peppers are just tender.
Combine with the Sauce
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
Serving it Up
- Remove the pan from heat. Serve hot over a bed of cooked rice or noodles.
Notes
For perfect results, ensure your oil is hot before adding chicken. Optional: Add sriracha for heat or fresh garlic and ginger for extra flavor. Serve with steamed broccoli or salad for balance.