Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken – A Crispy, Flavor-Packed Classic
If you’re craving a delicious homemade version of a takeout favorite, this Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is the perfect recipe! With a crispy, golden-brown coating and a tangy, flavorful sauce, this dish is a healthier alternative to deep-fried versions while still delivering an irresistible taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Healthier Alternative – Baked, not fried!
✔ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
✔ Family-Friendly – A crowd-pleaser for all ages.
✔ Restaurant-Quality Flavor – Enjoy your favorite takeout dish at home.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- ½ cup sugar
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Coat the chicken pieces with cornstarch, ensuring an even layer.
- Dip each piece into the beaten eggs, then place them in a hot pan with vegetable oil, searing until lightly golden (about 2–3 minutes per side).
Step 2: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ginger powder.
- Bring to a light simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce is smooth.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
- Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish and pour the sweet and sour sauce over it.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to coat the chicken evenly.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or quinoa for a complete meal!
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 18g |
Tips for the Best Sweet and Sour Chicken
⭐ For Extra Crispiness: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of cornstarch.
⭐ Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
⭐ Gluten-Free Option: Swap soy sauce for tamari and use gluten-free cornstarch.
⭐ Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of takeout without the guilt! It’s an easy-to-make, healthier option that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Give it a try, and let us know how it turns out in the comments!
Did you enjoy this recipe? Don’t forget to share it with your friends and family!