Oven-Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken: A Tangy and Delicious Dish

Craving the classic flavors of sweet and sour chicken but looking for a healthier alternative? This Oven-Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is the perfect solution. By baking instead of frying, you achieve a deliciously tangy and savory dish that’s lower in fat without sacrificing any of the taste.

This recipe is perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or anytime you want a meal that’s both comforting and flavorful. Ready in just over an hour, each serving of this delightful dish contains approximately 350 kcal, making it a balanced and satisfying option.

Ingredients to Prepare

This recipe yields 4 servings. Here’s what you’ll need to create this tangy and delicious dish:

• 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

• Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
• Place the cornstarch in a shallow dish and coat each piece of chicken in the cornstarch.
• Dip the coated chicken pieces into the beaten eggs.

3. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Brown the chicken pieces in the skillet until they are golden brown on all sides, but not fully cooked through. Work in batches if necessary.
• Place the browned chicken pieces in the prepared baking dish.

4. Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, distilled white vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.

5. Bake the Chicken:

• Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the chicken pieces in the baking dish, ensuring they are well coated.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce.

6. Serve:

• Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
• Enjoy your Tangy Sweet and Sour Chicken Bites!

Helpful Tips

• Chicken: Cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Cornstarch Coating: The cornstarch helps create a crispy exterior on the chicken, so make sure each piece is well coated.
• Browning the Chicken: Brown the chicken in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can prevent proper browning.

Cooking Tips

• Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a bit more cornstarch to the sauce mixture.
• Spice it Up: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sweet and sour sauce.
• Vegetable Add-ins: For added nutrition and flavor, you can stir in some bell peppers, pineapple chunks, or onions when you add the sauce to the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Serve this dish with steamed rice or fried rice for a complete meal. A side of stir-fried vegetables also complements the flavors well.
• Garnish: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
• Beverage Pairing: Pair with a light white wine such as Riesling or a cold beer to balance the tangy and sweet flavors.

Related Recipes:

• Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings
• Savory Spaghetti Meat Sauce recipe
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
• Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 20g
• Sugar: 25g
• Fiber: 1g

Storage and Leftovers

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave for a quick option. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture of the chicken.
• Freezing: The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Similar Recipes to Try

If you love Oven-Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken, you might enjoy these other tangy and savory dishes:

1. Classic Sweet and Sour Pork: A traditional takeout favorite made with tender pork pieces in a sweet and tangy sauce. 2. General Tso’s Chicken: Crispy chicken pieces tossed in a spicy, tangy sauce with hints of garlic and ginger. 3. Orange Chicken: Juicy chicken bites coated in a sweet and zesty orange sauce, perfect for a citrusy twist. 4. Honey Garlic Chicken: A delightful blend of honey and garlic flavors, creating a sweet and savory sauce for tender chicken. 5. Pineapple Chicken: A tropical twist with chicken pieces cooked in a tangy pineapple sauce, paired with bell peppers and onions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

• Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They may require a slightly longer cooking time but will add a richer flavor.

2. How do I make the sauce less sweet?

• Reduce the amount of sugar or increase the vinegar for a more balanced flavor. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for extra tanginess.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

• Yes, you can brown the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before baking.

4. What can I use instead of cornstarch?

• You can use all-purpose flour or rice flour as a substitute for cornstarch to coat the chicken.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

• Use a gluten-free soy sauce and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free. Cornstarch is naturally gluten-free.

6. How do I prevent the chicken from becoming soggy?

• Make sure the chicken is well browned before baking and avoid overcrowding the baking dish. Stirring occasionally during baking helps maintain the texture.

Conclusion

Oven-Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Combining the classic flavors of sweet and sour sauce with tender, crispy chicken, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and flavorful. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and happy cooking!

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