The Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is a classic and beloved dish that I absolutely adore. Made with tender chicken breast, cornstarch, vinegar, soy sauce, and a blend of other ingredients, this recipe has become a firm favorite in my household.
Once you try this baked version of sweet and sour chicken, you’ll never want to order takeout again. Not only is it healthier, but it also boasts a million times more deliciousness. It’s no surprise that this wonder of a dish has become the most popular recipe on my blog, winning over the hearts and taste buds of countless readers.
This recipe has stood the test of time, having been a cherished family favorite for over a decade. Its creation on a college budget almost 20 years ago proves that simple ingredients can produce extraordinary flavors. The fact that it’s baked rather than fried further enhances its appeal, making it a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies everyone’s cravings.
With its widespread popularity, you may have come across this recipe across the internet, and there’s a good reason for it – it’s insanely tasty! The combination of sweet and sour flavors, combined with the tender chicken, creates an explosion of tastes that is simply irresistible.
While this dish may require a bit more effort than your average weeknight meal, the payoff is well worth it. It’s not difficult or expensive, but it does take a bit more time to achieve its deliciousness. Nevertheless, the 5-second rundown is simple: this baked sweet and sour chicken is an exceptional and delectable delight that will have your taste buds singing with joy.
So, if you’re new to the world of baked sweet and sour chicken, I encourage you to give it a try and discover the magic of this beloved recipe. From the first bite to the last, it’s a culinary journey that will leave you hooked, and soon enough, it will become a staple on your family’s menu, just as it has in mine.
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
½ cup cornstarch
2 large eggs, beaten
¼ cup vegetable oil
FOR THE SWEET AND SOUR SAUCE
¾ cup sugar
½ cup apple cider vinegar
¼ cup ketchup
1 tablespoon soy sauce
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Directions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly oil a baking dish or coat it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, and garlic powder to create the flavorful sauce. Set the sauce aside for later use.
Season the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste in a separate large bowl. Ensure the chicken is well-coated with the seasoning.
Coat with Cornstarch: Add cornstarch to the seasoned chicken and gently toss until the cornstarch evenly coats the pieces. This step contributes to a crispy texture when cooking.
Dip in Eggs: One by one, dip each chicken piece into beaten eggs. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated with the egg mixture.
Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large saucepan. Add the chicken and cook for approximately 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Assemble in Baking Dish: Place the cooked chicken into the prepared baking dish. Top the chicken with the previously prepared sweet and sour sauce, ensuring an even coating.
Bake in the Oven: Put the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 55 minutes. Turn the chicken pieces every 15 minutes to ensure an even coating of the thickened sauce.
Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the sweet and sour chicken from the oven. Serve immediately, savoring the delightful combination of flavors. Enjoy your homemade sweet and sour chicken!
Conclusion:
Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is a culinary gem that combines the best of both worlds – delightful flavors and a healthier cooking method. Made with tender chicken breast, a mix of savory and tangy ingredients, and baked to perfection, this dish is a true delight that surpasses any takeout version.
Once you taste this homemade version, you’ll never look back at ordering takeout again. The incredible blend of sweet and sour flavors, combined with the tender and juicy chicken, creates a taste sensation that is unrivaled. It’s no wonder that this recipe has garnered immense popularity and remains a favorite among families for years.
The appeal of this dish lies not only in its mouthwatering taste but also in its health-conscious approach. By opting for baking instead of frying, you get to enjoy the same delectable flavors without the guilt, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more wholesome alternative.
Although this recipe may require a bit more time and effort than a quick weeknight meal, the results are undoubtedly worth it. The fact that it has been a beloved family favorite for nearly two decades is a testament to its timeless appeal and unforgettable taste.
From its creation on a college budget to becoming a viral sensation on the internet, the Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken has left a lasting impression on countless taste buds around the world. Its widespread popularity is a testament to its status as an exceptionally tasty and satisfying dish.
So, whether you’re new to the world of baked sweet and sour chicken or a longtime fan, this recipe is an absolute must-try. The delightful combination of flavors, the tender chicken, and the healthier cooking method make it an exceptional choice for any occasion. From special family dinners to delightful gatherings with friends, this recipe brings joy and smiles to the table, proving that homemade dishes can be just as delicious, if not more so, than anything you could order from a restaurant. Embrace the culinary magic of Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken, and let it become a treasured favorite in your kitchen, creating cherished memories and satisfying appetites for years to come.