Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

Craving the mouthwatering flavors of traditional sweet and sour chicken but looking for a healthier alternative? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a delicious Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken that will satisfy your taste buds without the guilt of deep-frying. With the perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, this recipe is a winner for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

Enjoy the goodness of tender chicken coated in a delectable sweet and sour sauce, all baked to perfection. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

Below is a comprehensive table featuring all the ingredients you’ll need to make this delightful Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken:

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of oil.
2. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then add soy sauce and rice vinegar. Stir until well combined.
5. Dip the chicken pieces into the egg mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
6. Next, roll the chicken pieces in the cornstarch mixture until each piece is evenly coated. Place them on the prepared baking dish.
7. Bake the coated chicken pieces in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
8. While the chicken is baking, prepare the sweet and sour sauce. In a saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, pineapple chunks, bell peppers, onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens and the vegetables are tender.
9. In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil and sauté the baked chicken pieces for a few minutes until they become glossy and coated with the sauce.
10. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
11. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.

Serve the Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken over steamed rice or with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs? Yes, you can use chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat. However, chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
2. Is there a substitute for cornstarch in this recipe? You can use potato starch or arrowroot powder as a substitute for cornstarch.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While the chicken is best when freshly baked, you can prepare the sweet and sour sauce in advance and store it separately. Reheat the sauce and sauté the chicken just before serving for the best results.
4. Can I adjust the level of sweetness and tanginess in the sauce? Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar, vinegar, and ketchup to suit your taste preferences.
5. Can I add other vegetables to the sweet and sour sauce? Of course! You can customize the sauce by adding vegetables like carrots, snow peas, or broccoli.
6. Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce, this Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken can be made gluten-free.

With this Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe, you can now enjoy the classic flavors of Chinese takeout in a healthier and equally delicious way. The crispy baked chicken coated in the sweet and tangy sauce will be a hit with your family and friends. So, bring the taste of Asia to your kitchen and delight in this delightful dish!