Chinese Sweet & Sour Chicken Recipe You’ll Love!
Discover the perfect blend of crispy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and sweet pineapple in our classic Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe.
Sweet and Sour Chicken, an iconic dish that has captured the hearts and palates of food lovers worldwide, is a shining star in the realm of Chinese cuisine. With a history rooted in the Guangdong province of Southern China, this dish combines the delicate balance of sweet and tangy flavors with tender pieces of chicken, creating a culinary masterpiece that stands the test of time.
The roots of Sweet and Sour Chicken trace back to ancient China, where sweet and sour flavors were used to enhance the taste of various dishes. However, it wasn't until the late 18th century that this dish began to take its modern form. Its widespread popularity beyond China's borders can be attributed to the Chinese diaspora, as it made its way to international Chinese restaurants in the early 20th century. Since then, it has become a beloved staple on Chinese restaurant menus around the world.
What makes Sweet and Sour Chicken truly iconic is its delightful combination of textures and flavors. The crispy yet tender chicken pieces are drenched in a luscious sweet and tangy sauce, often accented with colorful bell peppers and pineapple chunks. It's a dish that embodies the harmonious contrast of tastes and textures that Chinese cuisine is celebrated for, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a taste of authentic Chinese flavors.
- 1 lb Boneless and Skinless Chicken Breast or Thighs (Cut into bite-size pieces)
- 2 Egg (Beaten)
- 1 cup Cornstarch
- Salt and Pepper (To Taste)
- Vegetable Oil (For frying)
- 1/2 cup Ketchup
- 1/4 cup White Vinegar
- 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1/4 cup Pineapple Juice
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Ginger powder
- 1 Bell pepper (Cut into chunks)
- 1 Small Onion (Cut into Chunks)
- 1 cup Pineapple Chunks (Canned or Fresh)
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch (Mix with 2 Tablespoons of Water for thickening)
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Large skillet or wok
- Step 1: Prep the Chicken (10 minutes)
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Place the cornstarch and beaten eggs in separate bowls.
- Dip each chicken piece first into the cornstarch, coating it evenly, then into the beaten eggs. Ensure each piece is well-coated.
- Step 2: Fry the Chicken (15 minutes)
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for about 5-6 minutes or until the chicken is golden and crispy.
- Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Step 3: Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce (5 minutes)
In a large skillet or wok, combine ketchup, white vinegar, sugar, pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ginger powder.
Heat the sauce over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
Add the bell pepper, onion, and pineapple chunks to the sauce. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
Stir in the cornstarch-water mixture and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. - Step 4: Combine and Serve (5 minutes)
- Add the fried chicken pieces to the skillet with the sweet and sour sauce. Gently toss to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.
- Serve your homemade Sweet and Sour Chicken hot over steamed rice.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, you can sprinkle sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Chinese-inspired Sweet and Sour Chicken, a dish that's sure to impress with its crispy chicken and luscious sauce!