Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of sweet and sour chicken with a healthier twist! This Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe offers all the deliciousness of the traditional dish without the deep-frying. Tender chicken pieces coated in a crispy corn starch crust, baked to perfection, and smothered in a tangy-sweet sauce—what’s not to love? Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this irresistible dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1 inch in size.
- Coat the Chicken:
- In a shallow dish, place the cornstarch. In another dish, beat the eggs. Dip each chicken piece into the cornstarch, coating evenly, then into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the vegetable oil evenly over the chicken.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, flipping halfway through for even browning.
- Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the sweet and sour sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and sea salt.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared sweet and sour sauce over the chicken, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Pair it with steamed rice or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Crispy Coating Tip: For an extra crispy coating, you can spray the chicken with cooking spray before baking or drizzle a little more oil over the chicken halfway through baking.
- Customize the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the sauce to your preference by varying the amount of sugar or vinegar used. You can also add minced ginger or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or cauliflower florets for a vegetarian version of this dish. Simply follow the same coating and baking instructions.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
Keto-Friendly Version:
- Replace the cornstarch with almond flour or a keto-friendly alternative for coating the chicken. Use a sugar-free sweetener in place of granulated sugar for the sauce.
Low-Carb Version:
- Reduce the amount of cornstarch used for coating the chicken or omit it altogether. Serve the baked chicken with a side of cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables for a low-carb meal option.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
- Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if preferred. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- While the chicken is best served fresh from the oven, you can prepare the sweet and sour sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake the chicken just before serving for optimal texture.
- What can I serve with Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken?
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delightful alternative to the classic takeout favorite, offering all the flavor you love with less guilt. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dish the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re following a keto diet, looking for a low-carb option, or simply craving a healthier version of sweet and sour chicken, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds.
This comprehensive guide offers everything you need to know to recreate the Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe, including step-by-step instructions, tips for customization, dietary adaptations, and answers to frequently asked questions. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this delicious dish is sure to impress with its irresistible flavors and wholesome ingredients