Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe – Gourmet And Food

As the sun peeks through the clouds and summer beckons, it’s time to indulge in a dish that’s not only inviting but also brings a burst of color to your dining table. 

Sweet and sour chicken is a delightful harmony of flavors, perfect for any occasion, whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering. But before we dive into the nitty-gritty of the recipe, let’s chat about what pairs beautifully with this dish.

What to Pair with Sweet and Sour Chicken

This dish shines beside a bed of fluffy egg-fried rice or the simplicity of steamed jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the tangy sauce, transforming every bite into a flavor explosion. 

Add a side of crispy spring rolls or stir-fried vegetables for some extra crunch and nutrition. And of course, a light cucumber salad drizzled with sesame oil can bring a refreshing touch. Whether it's a cozy family meal or a lively backyard barbecue, these accompaniments elevate the experience.

Why This Recipe Is Great for You

Now, let’s get into why this sweet and sour chicken recipe is a must-try. It’s not just about the taste; it's about balance. You get protein from chicken, a sweet tang from the sauce, and the healthful, juicy goodness of vegetables and pineapple. 

Plus, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep—making it easier for those busy evenings when you want something healthy without the hassle.

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My Journey with the Ingredients

I’ve spent countless hours experimenting with different flavors and textures in my kitchen. Sweet and sour chicken has always been a staple. I love how versatile it is. Each ingredient in this recipe helps to amplify the overall experience. The chicken provides a satisfying base, while the bell peppers and onions add crunch. The pineapple contributes a sweet, tropical twist that takes your taste buds on a mini-vacation.

Here’s a sneak peek into my pantry staples that make this dish pop. I highlight the use of smoked paprika, which adds depth, and I never skip on fresh ginger and garlic—they are the backbone of flavor in any Asian-inspired recipe. Plus, incorporating quality ingredients, like dark brown muscovado sugar and a splash of soy sauce, guarantees that extra richness.

Ingredients for Sweet and Sour Chicken

Let’s lay out the essentials. Here’s what you’ll need, along with the measurements:

For the Chicken Batter:

• 2 large eggs, lightly whisked
  
• 3 skinless chicken breasts, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch (for that crispy texture)
  
• 5 tablespoons neutral cooking oil (like canola or vegetable)
  
• 90 grams (3/4 cup) plain/all-purpose flour
  
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  

For the Sauce:

• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
  
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
  
• 1 large onion, cut into chunky pieces
  
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  
• 150 ml (2/3 cup) tomato ketchup
  
• 6 tablespoons dark brown muscovado sugar
  
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  
• 475 grams (17 oz) canned pineapple chunks with juice
  
• 2 tablespoons malt vinegar
  
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  

To Serve:

• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
  
• Egg-fried rice or steamed jasmine rice
  
• Fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves for garnish (optional, but recommended)
  

How to Make Sweet and Sour Chicken

With ingredients ready and anticipation building, let’s jump into the cooking process. This recipe isn’t complicated, and I promise the rewards are worth every minute you spend in the kitchen.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the chopped chicken with the whisked eggs, cornstarch, flour, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure the chicken pieces are fully coated. This batter is crucial for achieving that delightful crunch. Let it marinate while you prep the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, this is where the magic happens. Combine the tomato ketchup, dark brown muscovado sugar, malt vinegar, and soy sauce. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger; these two will dance together beautifully in the pan. Set this mixture aside; it will soon turn your chicken into a flavor powerhouse.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Get a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add your cooking oil, about 5 tablespoons. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in small batches. You want to hear that satisfying sizzle. Fry until golden brown and crispy, which usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes. It’s best to avoid overcrowding the pan; this ensures each piece gets that beautiful crust.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Once the chicken is crispy and cooked through, remove it from the pan and set it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. In the same pan, toss in the onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 3 minutes, just until they start to soften. Don’t let them get too mushy; you want a bit of crunch remaining.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the chicken back into the pan with the veggies. Pour the sauce over everything. Toss everything together, letting the chicken soak up the sauce for a good 2 to 3 minutes. As it heats, the flavors meld beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when everything is well-coated and bubbling gently.

Step 6: Serve It Up

It’s showtime! Plate your sweet and sour chicken over fluffy egg-fried rice or steamed jasmine rice. Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top for that extra flair, adding a nutty flavor. Don’t forget to add fresh coriander leaves for garnishing. They add a bright pop of freshness to the dish.

Nutrition Information

Recipe Notes

Let’s take a moment to zoom in on some key ingredients you might be curious about.

• Chicken Breasts: Skinless chicken breasts keep it lean and tender. Chicken thighs could work as a substitute for a richer taste.
  
• Pineapple Chunks: Using canned pineapple in juice, rather than syrup, benefits the flavor without adding unnecessary sugar.
  
• Malt Vinegar: This is a flavor enhancer. It balances sweetness with a bit of tang, creating the signature sweet-and-sour effect.
  
• Dark Brown Muscovado Sugar: This provides not just sweetness, but also a hint of molasses flavor, rounding out the sauce beautifully.
  

Recipe Variations

Just like a great song that can be remixed, sweet and sour chicken offers flexibility:

1. Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh. The texture holds up wonderfully and absorbs flavors just as well.
   
2. Mixed Vegetables: Feel free to add whatever vegetables you have on hand. Carrots, broccoli, or snap peas work nicely.
   
3. Pineapple Fried Rice: Change up the serving by making pineapple fried rice. Dice fresh pineapple and add it into the fried rice for an extra fruity burst.
   
4. Different Proteins: Use shrimp, pork, or beef depending on what you have. Each will lend its unique flavor to the dish.
   
5. Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or Sriracha in the sauce for a kick.
   
6. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch to adapt to a gluten-sensitive diet.
   

Conclusion

Creating sweet and sour chicken at home can be as rewarding as it is delicious. With bold flavors and fresh ingredients, this dish is perfect for any occasion. I hope this recipe inspires you to try your hand at something that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also bring a smile around your table. Dive into the cooking experience—it's a journey just as satisfying as the meal itself. Happy cooking!

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