Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delicious and popular dish that combines the savory flavors of tender chicken with a tangy, sweet, and sour sauce. This dish, inspired by Chinese-American cuisine, offers a delightful balance of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a special occasion. The baked method ensures the chicken is juicy and coated in a flavorful sauce without the need for deep frying, making it a healthier option.
I remember the first time I tried sweet and sour chicken at a local Chinese restaurant. The flavors were so captivating that I wanted to recreate the dish at home. After experimenting with various recipes, I found a method that not only replicates the taste but also simplifies the cooking process. This baked version is easy to prepare and results in a dish that’s just as satisfying as its restaurant counterpart. It’s now a favorite in my household, and I’m excited to share this recipe with you.
Ingredients
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup corn starch
2 large eggs
1/4 cup vegetable oil
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
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius). This low temperature allows the chicken to bake slowly, ensuring it stays juicy and absorbs the sauce well.
Prepare the Baking Pan:
Line a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan and make for easier cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season the Chicken:
Season the 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces) with salt and pepper to taste. This helps to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
Coat the Chicken with Cornstarch:
Place 1 cup of cornstarch in a large ziplock bag. Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the bag, seal it, and shake until all the chicken pieces are evenly coated with cornstarch. The cornstarch helps to create a crispy exterior on the chicken when baked.
Beat the Eggs:
In a shallow bowl, beat together 2 large eggs. This will be used to coat the chicken pieces before frying.
Heat the Oil:
Heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until sizzling. The oil should be hot enough that it immediately sizzles when a piece of chicken is added.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Dip and Sear the Chicken:
Dip each cornstarch-coated chicken piece into the beaten eggs, then add it to the hot skillet. Sear the chicken pieces until they are golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. You do not need to cook the chicken all the way through at this point, as it will finish cooking in the oven.
Transfer to Baking Pan:
Once seared, transfer the chicken pieces to the prepared baking pan, spreading them out in a single layer.
Step 4: Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce
Combine Sauce Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of ketchup, 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce is smooth.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Pour Sauce Over Chicken:
Pour the sweet and sour sauce evenly over the chicken pieces in the baking pan. Make sure all the chicken pieces are well coated with the sauce.
Bake the Chicken:
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. Stir the chicken halfway through the baking time to ensure that all pieces are evenly coated with the sauce and cook thoroughly.
Step 6: Serve
Check for Doneness:
After 1 hour, check the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked. The chicken should be tender and the sauce should be thickened.
Serve:
Serve the Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken hot, over a bed of rice. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Coat and cook them in the same way for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Different Protein: Try using shrimp or pork instead of chicken for a different take on this classic dish.
Gluten-Free: Ensure that the cornstarch and soy sauce you use are gluten-free. Many soy sauces contain wheat, but there are gluten-free versions available.
Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy version of sweet and sour chicken.
Healthier Option: Use skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option. Thighs are also slightly higher in fat, making the dish richer.
Conclusion
Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings the delicious taste of a restaurant favorite right into your home kitchen. The combination of crispy chicken pieces baked in a tangy sweet and sour sauce creates a dish that is both satisfying and irresistible.
This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a homemade version of sweet and sour chicken without the need for deep frying. The baking method ensures that the chicken remains tender and juicy, while the sauce thickens and coats each piece perfectly.
Enjoy this dish as a main course, served over rice, and complemented by a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. The versatility and ease of preparation make it a great choice for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even meal prepping for the week.
