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SWEET AND SOUR CHICKEN

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Delicious Homemade Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

Sweet and Sour Chicken is a classic dish that brings together the tangy flavors of pineapple and vinegar with the savory notes of soy sauce and garlic. This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it over rice or Chinese noodles, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that you can whip up in just about thirty minutes!

Ingredients

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup fresh pineapple juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Sweet and Sour Chicken

  • 1 1/4 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/3 cup cornstarch
  • 2-3 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
  • 2 pinches crushed red pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: Cooked rice or Chinese noodles

Instructions

Preparing the Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, combine pineapple juice, garlic, water, vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch.
  2. Heat the mixture on low, whisking frequently until the sauce thickens. Once thickened, cover and remove from heat.

Preparing the Chicken

  1. Place the chicken and 1/3 cup cornstarch in a large Ziploc bag. Shake until the chicken is evenly coated.
  2. Heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken to the skillet, shaking off any excess cornstarch before cooking. Brown the chicken on all sides, cooking until it’s done (about 4-5 minutes). If needed, reduce heat to prevent over-browning or sticking.
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Cooking the Vegetables

  1. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add the diced green and red bell peppers, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes and stirring frequently.

Bringing It All Together

  1. Reduce the heat to low. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the peppers and onions. Cook for 1 minute.
  2. Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet, then add the pineapple chunks and crushed red pepper. Season with salt to taste.
  3. Gently stir to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the sauce. Cook until everything is warmed through.
  4. Serve over cooked rice or Chinese noodles.
See also  Chocolate Depression Cake

Tips for the Perfect Sweet and Sour Chicken

  • Chicken Preparation: Cut the chicken into small bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
  • Sauce Consistency: Cook the sauce until it’s slightly thickened; it will thicken more as it cools.
  • Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh bell peppers and, if possible, fresh pineapple for the best flavor.
  • Spice Level: For a bit of heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Serving: Serve immediately to keep the chicken and peppers crisp. Mix them only when ready to eat.
  • Pineapple Balance: Be careful with the amount of pineapple; too much can overpower the dish.
  • Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

FAQ

What is Sweet and Sour Chicken?

Sweet and Sour Chicken is a popular Chinese dish featuring crispy chicken pieces coated in a tangy-sweet sauce made from pineapple juice, vinegar, soy sauce, and other ingredients.

How do you make the sauce for Sweet and Sour Chicken?

To make the sauce, combine pineapple juice, minced garlic, water, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Simmer on low heat while whisking frequently until the sauce thickens.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe and add extra juiciness.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan?

Ensure your skillet is well-heated and use enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time. However, for the best texture, cook the chicken and combine everything just before serving.

How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Enjoy this easy and delicious Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe at home, and impress your family or guests with your culinary skills!

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