This Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is a healthier twist on the beloved takeout dish. Featuring tender, juicy chicken coated in a tangy, homemade sweet and sour sauce, this dish is baked to perfection, providing a crispy texture without the excess oil. Serve it over rice or noodles, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to impress family and friends!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
For Serving:
- Cooked rice or noodles
- Chopped green onions and sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Set up a breading station: place the cornstarch in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
- Dredge each piece of chicken first in the cornstarch, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Arrange the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Chicken: Spray the top of the chicken with cooking spray or olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Once simmering, whisk in the cornstarch and water mixture. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and drizzle the sweet and sour sauce over the chicken, tossing to coat evenly.
- Serve: Serve the baked sweet and sour chicken over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
- Enjoy: Enjoy your delicious and healthier baked sweet and sour chicken, perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep!
This recipe balances the sweet and tangy flavors of traditional sweet and sour chicken while keeping it lighter and healthier. Perfect for a satisfying meal any day of the week!