Dive into the delectable world of our Baked Sweet and Sour Chickenβa healthier rendition of the beloved takeout classic. This recipe combines tender, bite-sized chicken pieces with a mouthwatering sweet and sour sauce, all baked to perfection. Enjoy the savory flavors without the deep-frying fuss. Follow the simple steps below to create a delicious homemade version that will leave your taste buds singing.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water (for thickening)
For Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
- Prepare Chicken:
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Coat each chicken piece in cornstarch, then dip in beaten eggs, ensuring a thorough coating.
- Bake Chicken:
- Place the coated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
- Prepare Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, ketchup, soy sauce, sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, ginger powder, and honey.
- Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Create a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water. Pour into the sauce, stirring until thickened. Remove from heat.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Transfer baked chicken to a large bowl.
- Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the chicken, tossing until evenly coated.
- Serve:
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
- Serve over steamed rice or your preferred grain.
Taste the delightful fusion of flavors in every bite of our Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken, which is a tribute to the harmonious combination of the juicy chicken and the zesty sauce. This healthier substitute not only fulfills cravings but also improves the experience of cooking at home. Savor this culinary adventure and the joy of producing a delicious dish that is as enjoyable to prepare as it is to eat. πΌ