Name: Chinese Sweet and Sour Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/3 cup cornstarch (for coating); 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; Canola oil (for frying); 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup fresh pineapple, chopped (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Chinese Sweet and Sour Chicken

Chinese Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delightful dish that tantalizes the tastebuds with its vibrant colors and delicious flavors. The fusion of crispy chicken pieces enveloped in a glossy, tangy sauce is nothing short of culinary magic. Each bite offers a mouth-watering contrast of sweet and savory that feels like a celebration on your palate. It’s worth your time to make this dish, not only for the flavor but also for the joy it brings to the table. The recipe is simple enough for family weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Join me in this step-by-step guide to creating this irresistible dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chinese Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe stands out for its easy preparation, making it perfect for anyone looking to whip up a flavorful dinner in no time. The minimal ingredients mean you’re not spending hours in the kitchen, yet the result is a dish that looks and tastes gourmet. It’s family-friendly and appeals to a wide range of tastes, making it an excellent choice for dinner gatherings or cozy family meals. Additionally, the versatility of the ingredients allows you to adapt the recipe to your preferences, whether you wish to include extra vegetables or serve it with your favorite sides.

Ingredients for Chinese Sweet and Sour Chicken

To create this beautiful and tasty dish, you’ll need the following ingredients, which contribute to the flavors and textures that make Sweet and Sour Chicken so cherished.

3/4 cup granulated sugar: adds sweetness that balances the flavors
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar: provides a tangy kick
1/4 cup ketchup: combines sweetness with richness
2 tablespoons soy sauce: enhances depth with its savory notes
1 tablespoon brown sugar: enriches the sauce with a hint of molasses
1 tablespoon sesame oil: adds a nutty aroma
2 teaspoons garlic, minced: delivers aromatic intensity
1 tablespoon cornstarch: thickens the sauce
1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces: the main protein of the dish
1/2 teaspoon salt: for seasoning
1/3 cup cornstarch (for coating): promotes crispiness
1 large egg, lightly beaten: helps the coating adhere
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: contributes to the crunchy exterior
Canola oil (for frying): essential for a crispy finish
1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped: provides flavor and texture
1 red bell pepper, chopped: adds sweetness and color
1 green bell pepper, chopped: contributes to the flavor profile
1 cup fresh pineapple, chopped (optional): enhances the sweet and tangy balance

Step-by-Step Directions for Chinese Sweet and Sour Chicken

Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Whisk the ingredients together until they form a smooth sauce that exudes a delicious aroma.
Make the Slurry: In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with a splash of water to create a slurry. This will help to thicken the sauce later in the cooking process.
Prep the Chicken: Heat canola oil in a skillet to about 375°F (190°C). While the oil heats, season the chicken pieces with salt. Coat them in cornstarch, dip in the beaten egg, and then coat with flour for a crispy exterior.
Fry the Chicken: Fry the chicken pieces in hot oil until they turn golden brown and crispy. This should take about 4-5 minutes per batch. Transfer them onto a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped yellow onion, red and green bell peppers, and the optional chopped pineapple. Sauté until they are just tender and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Combine and Thicken: Pour the prepared sauce over the sautéed vegetables. Add the cornstarch slurry and simmer for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken deliciously.
Toss Everything Together: Once the sauce has thickened, toss the fried chicken in the sauce until it’s well coated. Serve the dish hot, garnishing with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra visual appeal.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your cooking game, here are some chef secrets and optional extras that can enhance your Chinese Sweet and Sour Chicken experience. For an even crispier texture, double-dip the chicken pieces by repeating the egg and flour coating process. Consider adding sesame seeds on top just before serving for an additional layer of flavor and crunch. If you enjoy a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to the sauce for a delightful spicy twist. Don’t hesitate to play around with the vegetables you include, as snap peas or carrots can add even more color and health benefits.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

When it comes to serving your Chinese Sweet and Sour Chicken, presentation is key. Serve it over a fluffy bed of steamed jasmine rice or toss in some fried rice for extra flavor. Pair this dish with a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch or some spring rolls as a delightful appetizer. To enhance the complete experience, consider serving a light tea or a refreshing lemonade to cleanse the palate between bites.

Nutritional Information

While exact nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients used, typically, a serving of Chinese Sweet and Sour Chicken contains around 350-450 calories depending on portion size and accompaniments. The dish offers a good balance of protein from chicken and essential vegetables, but keep an eye on added sugars and sodium levels from the sauces. If you seek healthier options, try using less sugar, swapping out regular ketchup for a reduced-sugar version, or choosing air-fried chicken instead of deep-frying to reduce oil content.

Storing Tips & Variations for Chinese Sweet and Sour Chicken

To enjoy your Chinese Sweet and Sour Chicken later, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to refresh the sauce. For those looking to freeze the dish, ensure it cools completely before transferring to a freezer-friendly container. Variations can include substituting chicken with tofu or shrimp for different protein options. You can also switch up the vegetables according to your preferences or what’s in season.

Conclusion for Chinese Sweet and Sour Chicken

There’s no better time than now to try making Chinese Sweet and Sour Chicken! With its delightful blend of flavors, appealing colors, and crispy texture, this dish is sure to become a fast favorite in your household. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients and let your kitchen be filled with the enticing aromas of this classic entrée. You’ll be glad you did!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be used, but be aware that it may require less cooking time and might not be as juicy as thighs.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch, and ensure that your other ingredients are free from gluten.
What can I substitute for pineapple?
If you’re not fond of pineapple, consider using chopped mango or even leaving out the fruit for a more traditional approach.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Just give it a quick stir before using.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some spicy flair, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or serve with your favorite spicy condiment at the table.