Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

Sweet and sour chicken is a timeless dish loved for its perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. Crispy, golden-fried chicken chunks are coated in a vibrant, glossy sauce made from a blend of vinegar, sugar, and tomato sauce, creating an irresistible combination. This dish is commonly served with steamed rice or noodles, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 500g boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup water
• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

• ½ cup ketchup or tomato sauce
• ¼ cup rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ⅓ cup sugar or honey
• ½ cup pineapple juice (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

For Stir-Fry Vegetables (Optional Additions):

• ½ cup bell peppers, diced (red, green, or yellow)
• ½ cup pineapple chunks
• ½ cup onions, sliced
• ½ cup carrots, julienned

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Batter

1. In a large bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and water to create a light batter.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then coat with the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken to Crispy Perfection

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot (about 350°F / 175°C), carefully place coated chicken pieces into the oil.
3. Fry for 4–5 minutes until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally.
4. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.

Step 3: Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, pineapple juice, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes.
2. Stir continuously and let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes.
3. Add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and stir until the sauce thickens.
4. If using stir-fry vegetables, add them now and cook for 2 minutes.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken in Sauce

1. Once the sauce reaches a glossy, thick consistency, add the crispy chicken.
2. Toss gently to ensure every piece is coated evenly.
3. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes to absorb flavors.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Transfer the sweet and sour chicken to a serving plate.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
3. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Sweet and Sour Chicken:

• For extra crunch, double-fry the chicken—after the first fry, let it rest, then fry again for another 2 minutes.
• Adjust sweetness by modifying sugar levels or using honey instead of sugar.
• Make it healthier by stir-frying instead of deep-frying the chicken.
• Add fruits like mango or peach for an exotic twist.

This dish brings restaurant-quality flavors straight to your kitchen, making it an absolute favorite! Would you like variations or alternative serving suggestions to make it even more exciting?