Sweet and sour chicken is a classic takeout favorite, but it's surprisingly easy to make at home! This recipe delivers all the tangy, sweet, and savory flavors you crave, without the complicated steps or long ingredient list. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful, restaurant-quality meal.
What Makes This Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe Easy?
This recipe prioritizes simplicity without sacrificing flavor. We’ve streamlined the process, minimizing prep time and using readily available ingredients. No special skills or fancy equipment are needed – just a simple pan and your willingness to create a delicious meal!
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (optional, but adds great flavor!)
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For Serving:
- Cooked rice
- Optional: chopped green onions, sesame seeds for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, whisk together the ketchup, vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, cornstarch, ginger, and garlic. If using, stir in the pineapple juice.
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Combine and Simmer: Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
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Add the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it completely in the sweet and sour sauce.
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Serve: Serve the sweet and sour chicken immediately over cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can I make this recipe spicier?
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You could also add a finely chopped chili pepper.
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! Pork, shrimp, or tofu are all excellent substitutes for chicken. Adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the protein you choose.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It's best to serve this dish immediately, as the sauce can thicken further upon cooling. However, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before adding to the cooked chicken.
What can I serve with sweet and sour chicken?
This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, fried rice, or even noodles. You can also add some steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a more balanced meal.
How do I thicken the sauce if it's too thin?
If your sauce is too thin, you can whisk in a little more cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water. Simmer until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the chicken in batches ensures even browning.
- Stir frequently: This prevents the sauce from sticking to the pan and burning.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar, vinegar, or soy sauce to suit your preferences.
Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade sweet and sour chicken! Let me know in the comments how it turns out.
