easy chicken sweet and sour recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
easy chicken sweet and sour recipe
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The Best easy chicken sweet and sour recipe

I love this easy chicken sweet and sour recipe because it is so simple to make and tastes just like takeout. My kids go crazy for it and it is a regular in our dinner rotation. It is a perfect weeknight meal because you can have it on the table in under 45 minutes. Plus, using chicken breast and pineapple gives you a good dose of protein and vitamin C, so I feel good serving it to my family.

Easy Chicken Sweet and Sour

Easy Chicken Sweet and Sour

4.7 from 1704 votes

This quick and simple sweet and sour chicken is a family favorite. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a crispy batter and tossed in a tangy sweet and sour sauce with pineapple and bell peppers.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 cup cornstarch
2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce

1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 cup pineapple juice (from canned pineapple)
1/2 cup water

For the Stir Fry

1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 cup pineapple chunks (canned, drained)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a shallow bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
2Dip chicken cubes into the egg, then coat in the cornstarch mixture. Shake off excess.
3Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
4In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, cornstarch, pineapple juice, and water until smooth.
5Pour out all but 1 tablespoon of oil from the skillet. Add the bell peppers and pineapple chunks and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
6Pour the sauce into the skillet with the peppers and pineapple. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 2 minutes.
7Add the fried chicken back to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Serve immediately over rice.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or wok
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Tongs
Paper towels

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for 15-20 minutes instead of frying. You can also add other veggies like carrots or snap peas.

Watch Video Of How Easy Chicken Sweet and Sour Works

This easy chicken sweet and sour recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It works perfectly for a quick family dinner or for a gathering where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. I hope your family loves it as much as mine does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Sweet and Sour

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs. They will be a bit more tender and juicy. Just cut them into similar sized cubes and cook them the same way.

2. Can I make this sweet and sour chicken ahead of time?

It is best served fresh. The fried chicken can lose its crispiness if stored. However, you can prep the sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time to save time on the day you cook.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to help crisp up the chicken again, or in the microwave.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten free?

Yes, you can use gluten free all purpose flour and gluten free soy sauce or tamari. Make sure your cornstarch is labeled gluten free as well.

5. What can I use instead of pineapple?

If you are not a fan of pineapple, you can substitute with canned mandarin oranges or even apple chunks. The sweetness will still work well with the sauce.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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