Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe sizzle of chicken hitting a hot skillet is music to any home cook’s ears. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe for Sweet and Sour Chicken that captures the essence of takeout while keeping it homemade. This easy chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, ready in just 45 minutes, and is sure to delight even the pickiest of eaters. With its crispy chicken, vibrant veggies, and a tangy sauce enriched with pineapple, this dish calls to mind the comforting flavors of your favorite Chinese restaurant, but with the added benefit of knowing exactly what’s in each bite. Plus, it’s adaptable to a gluten-conscious diet, so everyone can join the table! Intrigued? Let’s dive in and whip up a family favorite that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Why is this Sweet and Sour Chicken special? Delectable flavors come together in a vibrant symphony—crispy chicken bits enveloped in a sweet and tangy sauce, making your taste buds sing. Quick prep time means you can whip this up in just 45 minutes, perfect for fleeting weeknight dinners! Customizable options let you swap in shrimp or tofu, keeping everyone at the table happy. Enjoy the crunch of fresh veggies and juicy pineapple while savoring a dish that’s healthier and fresher than takeout. Plus, for those busy days, meal prep allows you to have everything ready to go, just like our delicious Hawaiian Chicken Salad you can make in advance! Whether for family or friends, this Sweet and Sour Chicken is bound to impress. Sweet and Sour Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into 1-inch pieces; these provide the main protein and can be swapped with shrimp or firm tofu for variations. • Cornstarch – essential for creating a light, crunchy coating on the chicken and thickening the sauce. • Vegetable oil – a neutral oil ideal for frying, with a high smoke point to prevent burning during stir-frying. For the Vegetables • Red bell pepper – adds sweetness and stunning color; feel free to substitute with yellow bell pepper for a different flavor. • Green bell pepper – offers a mild bitterness that balances sweetness; zucchini is an excellent substitute if desired. • Onion – enhances depth and sweetness; any variety works, but yellow or red adds even more color. For the Sauce • Pineapple chunks – sweet and juicy, perfect for balancing out the dish’s tanginess; fresh or canned will do the trick. • Vinegar (white or apple cider) – provides a signature tang; apple cider vinegar gives a milder fruitiness that complements the sauce. • Ketchup – contributes smooth texture and sweetness; you can substitute with tomato paste for a less sweet version. • Soy sauce – adds umami flavor that deepens the overall taste; tamari can be used for a gluten-free alternative. • Sugar – crucial for balancing flavors in the sauce, so it harmonizes perfectly with the Sweet and Sour Chicken’s profile. • Garlic – infuses warmth and enhances the sauce’s flavor. • Fresh ginger – adds a zesty aroma and warmth to the dish. • Salt and pepper – for seasoning to taste, ensuring each bite is delightful. • Water – optional for thinning or adjusting the sauce’s consistency. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet and Sour Chicken Step 1: Coat Chicken Begin by placing the cubed boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle with cornstarch. Toss the chicken until every piece is well-coated, which helps achieve that coveted crispy texture. Allow the coated chicken to rest while you prepare your skillet, ensuring even coverage for perfect frying. Step 2: Fry Chicken Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken pieces, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until each piece is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Step 3: Stir-fry Veggies In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil and heat over medium-high. When hot, toss in the sliced red and green bell peppers along with the onion. Stir-fry the vegetables for 3 to 4 minutes until they are tender-crisp and vibrant in color, absorbing all the delicious chicken flavors remaining in the pan. Step 4: Make Sauce While the veggies are cooking, combine the vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and grated fresh ginger in a mixing bowl. Stir these ingredients together until the sugar has completely dissolved. This sweet and tangy sauce will be the star of your Sweet and Sour Chicken, bringing all the flavors together beautifully. Step 5: Combine Return the crispy chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the chicken and veggies, stirring gently to ensure everything is evenly coated. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the chicken and vegetables to soak up the flavors of the sauce while heating through. Step 6: Add Pineapple Gently stir in the pineapple chunks, allowing them to mingle with the chicken and vegetables. Turn the heat down to medium and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This step not only warms the pineapple but also allows its sweetness to enhance the overall dish, deepening the sweet and sour profile of your Sweet and Sour Chicken. Step 7: Thicken Sauce (optional) If you’d like a thicker sauce for your Sweet and Sour Chicken, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this slurry into the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, creating a luscious coating around the chicken and veggies. Step 8: Season Taste your Sweet and Sour Chicken and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and pepper. This final step ensures that every bite is perfectly balanced, enhancing the sweet and tangy flavors that dance through the dish. Go ahead and tweak the seasoning until it sings just right for your palate. Step 9: Serve To serve your irresistible Sweet and Sour Chicken, plate the dish over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or crunchy chow mein noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions for an added touch of freshness and color. This meal is bound to impress with its vibrant flavors, leaving everyone at the table reaching for seconds! Expert Tips for Sweet and Sour Chicken • Cut Evenly: Ensure chicken pieces are uniformly sized for even cooking, preventing some parts from being undercooked or overdone. • Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when frying chicken; too much in the pan can cause steaming instead of a crispy finish. • Prep Ahead: For a quicker dinner, chop chicken and veggies and mix the sauce in advance. Just coat the chicken right before cooking. • Store Smart: If you have leftovers, keep chicken and veggies separate to maintain their texture. Reheat gently to avoid mushiness. • Adjust Sweetness: Taste your sauce as you cook; if it’s too sweet for your liking, a dash more vinegar can bring it back into balance, enhancing your Sweet and Sour Chicken. What to Serve with Sweet and Sour Chicken? Bring delightful balance to your dinner table by pairing this colorful dish with satisfying sides that complement its vibrant flavors. Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The soft and fragrant rice absorbs the tangy sauce beautifully, making every bite a little piece of heaven. It’s the perfect base to soak up those sweet and savory juices. Crunchy Wonton Chips: These crispy delights add a fun texture contrast and an irresistible crunch, creating a perfect vessel for extra sauce or for enjoying on their own. Fresh Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with crunchy cucumbers and a splash of rice vinegar brightens up the meal. The coolness balances the warmth of the sweet and sour dish, offering a refreshing palate cleanser. Steamed Broccoli Florets: Tender, bright green broccoli adds a nutritious touch, complementing the vibrant colors of the Sweet and Sour Chicken while providing a delightful crunch. Sesame Noodles: Twirl your fork in savory sesame noodles drizzled with soy sauce and garlic, offering an Asian-inspired flavor that echoes the sweet and tangy theme. Mango Lassi: For beverages, a creamy mango lassi provides a tropical sweetness, softening the dish’s tanginess and creating a symphony of flavors with every sip. Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm chocolate chip cookies. Their gooey richness is an inviting contrast to the vibrant palate of the main course! How to Store and Freeze Sweet and Sour Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Sweet and Sour Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. This ensures the flavors remain intact while keeping it fresh for reheating. Freezer: Freeze portions of Sweet and Sour Chicken in airtight containers for up to 2 months. For easy meals, label containers with dates before freezing. Reheating: Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and prevent dryness, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Storage Tip: To maintain the texture, store chicken and vegetables separately if possible. This helps avoid sogginess when reheating. Make Ahead Options These Sweet and Sour Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the chicken and vegetables, and mix the sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and texture. When you’re ready to enjoy this quick dinner, simply coat the chicken in cornstarch just before frying. Stir-fry the prepped veggies, add the chicken, and pour in the sauce to create a meal that tastes just as delicious as freshly made. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a flavorful feast ready to serve with minimal effort, making dinner time a breeze! Sweet and Sour Chicken Variations Feel free to get creative with this delicious Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe! Customize it according to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or firm tofu for a delightful twist. Each option offers a unique texture that pairs beautifully with the sauce. Veggie Boost: Add snap peas or broccoli for extra crunch and nutrition. This twist not only enhances the dish’s fiber but introduces vibrant colors. Nutty Addition: Incorporate cashews or peanuts to add a rich crunch and depth of flavor. They bring a lovely contrast to the succulent chicken and juicy pineapple. Heat Factor: Spice things up by including crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha. This little kick can elevate the overall flavor profile beautifully. Gluten-Free Twist: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-conscious. This simple swap ensures everyone can enjoy this comforting dish without worry. Fruity Flavor Upgrade: Experiment with different fruits like mango or bell peppers for added sweetness. Each variation will bring a refreshing new element to your plate. Saucy Variation: Swap out ketchup for hoisin sauce for a deeper, richer flavor. This change adds a delightful umami boost that pairs perfectly with the tangy elements. Meal Prep Ease: Prepare a batch of Sweet and Sour Chicken ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld even more. Enjoy it later in the week, just like our easy Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas for a hassle-free dinner. No matter how you decide to customize it, this Sweet and Sour Chicken will continue to shine! Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe vegetables for Sweet and Sour Chicken? Absolutely! When selecting vegetables, look for bell peppers that are firm and vibrant without any soft spots or wrinkles. Green bell peppers should be shiny and dark green, while red bell peppers should be vivid and free of blemishes. If you’re using fresh pineapple, it should have a sweet aroma at the base and a slight give when gently squeezed. Choose pineapples with bright green, healthy leaves for the freshest option. How should I store leftover Sweet and Sour Chicken? To keep your Sweet and Sour Chicken fresh, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay good for 3 to 4 days. Ensure the dish is adequately cooled before refrigerating to maintain the best quality. Can I freeze Sweet and Sour Chicken? Yes, you can! To freeze your Sweet and Sour Chicken, divide it into portions and place them in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. Make sure to label the bags with the date! When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Why is my sauce too thick or too thin? No worries! If your sauce turns out too thick, simply add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency, stirring continuously. If it’s too thin, you can thicken it by making a slurry: mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce while simmering. Cook for an additional minute, and you should see it thicken up beautifully. Is Sweet and Sour Chicken suitable for gluten-conscious diets? Very! To make this dish gluten-conscious, simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari, which is gluten-free. Always double-check the labels on your other ingredients, like ketchup, to ensure they’re gluten-free as well. Enjoy your delicious meal worry-free! Sweet and Sour Chicken: Homemade Bliss in Under 45 Minutes This Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is a quick, homemade dish that captures the flavors of takeout in under 45 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: ChineseCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces1/4 cup Cornstarch for coating2 tablespoons Vegetable oil for fryingFor the Vegetables1 medium Red bell pepper1 medium Green bell pepper1 medium OnionFor the Sauce1 cup Pineapple chunks fresh or canned1/2 cup Vinegar white or apple cider1/2 cup Ketchup1/4 cup Soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free1/4 cup Sugar2 cloves Garlic minced1 tablespoon Fresh ginger gratedto taste Saltto taste Pepper1/4 cup Water optional Equipment Large mixing bowlLarge Skilletmixing bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by placing the cubed boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle with cornstarch. Toss the chicken until every piece is well-coated. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken pieces. Fry for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil and toss in the sliced red and green bell peppers and onion. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until tender-crisp. Combine vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a mixing bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Return the crispy chicken to the skillet with sautéed vegetables. Pour the sauce mixture over and cook for another 2 minutes. Gently stir in the pineapple chunks, allowing them to mingle. Simmer for about 5 minutes. To thicken the sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir into the skillet. Cook for an additional minute until thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the dish over jasmine rice or chow mein noodles, garnished with sliced green onions. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 30IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure chicken pieces are evenly sized for cooking. Avoid overcrowding the skillet when frying for a crispy finish. Store leftovers properly to maintain texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
