If you’re craving a dish that’s sweet, tangy, and satisfying, this crispy sweet and sour chicken recipe is the perfect choice. With crispy, golden chicken bites smothered in a luscious, flavorful sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table or gathering.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 500g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying
- 2 eggs, beaten
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup pineapple juice (or water)
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- In two separate bowls, place the flour in one and the beaten eggs in the other. Coat each chicken piece first in flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with cornstarch for an extra crispy texture.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- In a saucepan, combine the ketchup, white vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and pineapple juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.
- If using, add the chopped bell pepper and pineapple chunks to the sauce, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
- Add the fried chicken pieces to the sauce and toss gently until all the chicken is fully coated with the sweet and sour sauce.
Serve:
- Serve the sweet and sour chicken hot, paired with steamed rice or noodles.
This sweet and sour chicken is the perfect balance of crispy, sweet, and tangy in every bite. A delicious, family-friendly dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy!