Name: Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 3-4 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup Cornstarch; 3 beaten Eggs; 1/4 cup Canola oil; 1 cup Pineapple chunks; 1 cup Chopped peppers; 1/4 cup Pineapple juice; 2/3 cup Water; 1/3 cup Vinegar; 1/4 cup Brown sugar; 1/2 cup Sugar; 1/8 tsp Salt; 1/4 cup Ketchup; 1/4 cup Soy sauce; 3 tbsp Cornstarch

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The first time I made Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken, I was immediately transported back to my childhood. Memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and the delightful aroma of tangy sweetness wafting through the air created a sense of nostalgia. This dish has a unique way of bringing everyone together, not only because of its vibrant flavors but also due to the warmth and love that it symbolizes. There’s something magical about the balance of sweet and tangy that makes each bite an adventure. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken never fails to impress. The juicy chunks of chicken, perfectly coated and nestled in a luscious sauce, create comfort on a plate. I often find myself reminiscing about those joyous moments spent around the dinner table, sharing delicious meals and stories with loved ones.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
300 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Frying Pan, Large Pot, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet

Why You’ll Love This Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

It’s a Flavor Explosion

One of the reasons I adore Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is the explosion of flavors that dance on your palate. The sweetness from the pineapple and sugars perfectly contrasts with the tanginess of vinegar and ketchup, creating a harmonious balance that’s simply irresistible.

Easy to Make

You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up this dish. The preparation is straightforward, making it accessible for anyone. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

A Crowd-Pleaser

When I serve Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken, it’s always a hit. Friends and family rave about it, and there’s never a single piece left on the table. It’s the kind of dish that sparks joy and brings smiles.

Versatile and Customizable

This dish allows for creativity! You can add your favorite vegetables or adjust the sweetness to suit your taste. It’s a fantastic base recipe that you can modify according to seasonal ingredients or personal preferences.

Great for Meal Prep

Preparing Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken in advance is a fantastic idea. It stores well, and the flavors deepen over time, making it a great choice for meal prep. Just reheat and enjoy the same delicious taste any day of the week!

Perfect for Any Occasion

No matter if it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish fits right in. It’s festive enough to impress guests while still being comforting enough for a regular meal. You can count on Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken to brighten up any dining table.

Ingredient List for Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

When creating Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken, the selection of ingredients plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect flavor profile. Each ingredient complements the others beautifully, resulting in a dish that feels both vibrant and comforting. The star of the show, the chicken, provides the hearty base, while the balance of sweet and sour elements from pineapple and vinegar harmonizes perfectly.

3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The foundation of your dish, these pieces of chicken will soak up the delicious flavors.
1 cup cornstarch – Essential for coating the chicken, creating a crispy texture when cooked.
3 eggs beaten – Adds moisture and helps the cornstarch adhere to the chicken.
1/4 cup canola oil – Used for frying the chicken, providing a rich flavor.
Pineapple chunks – Adds sweetness and a tropical flair to your dish.
Chopped peppers – For a pop of color and crunch, these enhance the texture and flavor.
1/4 cup pineapple juice – Brings an extra layer of sweetness and acidity.
2/3 cup water – Helps to balance the flavors in the sauce.
1/3 cup vinegar – Provides the tangy element that complements the sweetness.
1/4 cup brown sugar – Adds depth of flavor with its molasses undertones.
1/2 cup sugar – Sweetens the sauce for that classic sweet and sour flavor.
1/8 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
1/4 cup ketchup – A key ingredient that adds sweetness and thickness to the sauce.
1/4 cup soy sauce – Brings umami and richness to the dish.
3 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water – Used to thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.

Preparation Steps for Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

Cooking Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. The steps are straightforward, guiding you through the preparation and cooking phases seamlessly. Follow along to create this delicious dish that everyone will love!

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees. This is important for ensuring that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Rinse the chicken in water and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Make sure the pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.
Place the cornstarch in one bowl and the eggs in another. This will create the breading setup.
Toss several pieces of chicken into the cornstarch to coat them. Make sure they are fully covered, then dip them into the eggs.
Set the coated chicken pieces aside on a plate. Repeat this process until all pieces have been coated.
In a large pan, heat ¼ cup of canola oil over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken and cook for a few minutes on each side until they are slightly browned but not fully cooked.
Once browned, place the chicken in a greased 9×13 pan and set aside. This will be where your chicken bakes to perfection.
For the sauce, combine pineapple juice, 2/3 cup water, vinegar, brown sugar, salt, soy sauce, and ketchup in a medium pot. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat.
To thicken the sauce, mix 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water. Stir this mixture into the boiling sauce, whisking occasionally until it reaches the desired thickness.
Add your desired amount of pineapple chunks and any optional ingredients to the sauce, pouring it evenly over the chicken in the baking dish.
Bake for half an hour, turning the chicken at the 15-minute mark to ensure even cooking and coating. Enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Coating Technique: The key to a crispy coating is ensuring the chicken is well-coated in cornstarch before frying. This creates that delicious texture.
Flavor Development: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps develop the flavors. The longer it cooks, the richer the taste becomes.
Cooking Time: Be attentive while baking the chicken. Adjust the time based on your oven’s performance to achieve perfectly cooked chicken.
Ingredient Quality: Using fresh, high-quality chicken and ripe pineapple will elevate the overall flavor of your dish.

Helpful Hints

When making Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken, a few helpful hints can enhance the experience and outcome. Here are some tips to keep in mind for a delicious result.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain freshness.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked dish for up to three months. Just let it cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Pairing: Serve with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice to balance the flavors.
Customization: Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for added nutrition and color.
Leftover Sauce: Consider saving any extra sauce for dipping your favorite appetizers or as a salad dressing.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken, there are countless options to elevate your dining experience. Here are some of my favorite suggestions:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This classic pairing balances the sweet and tangy flavors of the dish perfectly.
Fried Rice: Enhanced with vegetables, this makes for a hearty side that complements the chicken beautifully.
Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing element to the meal.
Egg Rolls: These make for a fun appetizer or side that pairs excellently with the sweet and sour sauce.
Occasional Gatherings: This dish is ideal for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or potlucks where you want to impress guests.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container. This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep options.
Seasonal Flavors: In the summer, consider adding fresh seasonal vegetables to brighten the dish.

FAQ

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp if you’re looking for a different protein option. If you’re using tofu, make sure to press it to remove excess moisture, and for shrimp, be sure to adjust the cooking time as they cook quickly. Both options will pair nicely with the sweet and sour sauce, providing a delicious alternative.

Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or even quinoa. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or some egg rolls for a complete meal. The sweetness of the dish balances well with the savory sides, creating a harmonious dining experience!

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should be consumed within three days for the best flavor and texture. You can also freeze the leftovers for up to three months. Just remember to let them cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven or microwave before enjoying them again!

Absolutely! You can prepare the Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken in advance. Just follow the instructions up until the baking step, store it in the fridge, and bake it right before serving. This way, you can enjoy the flavors without the last-minute rush. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when hosting guests!

Conclusion

Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings everyone together. Whether you’re reliving cherished memories or creating new ones, this dish is sure to impress. I encourage you to try this recipe tonight; it’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion!