Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe: 5 Easy Steps to Perfection!

Introduction

If you’re looking for the best sweet and sour chicken recipe, you’ve come to the right place! This crispy, golden-brown chicken is coated in a mouthwatering sweet and tangy sauce that perfectly balances flavors. With just the right amount of crunch, juiciness, and bold flavors, this dish will have you skipping takeout and making it at home instead.

The beauty of this Chinese-inspired favorite is that it’s easy to make and requires simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a special occasion, this homemade sweet and sour chicken recipe will impress everyone at the table.

Stick around as we walk you through the step-by-step process, expert tips, and common mistakes to avoid. Plus, we’ll share some pro secrets to making this dish even better than your favorite takeout spot!

What is Sweet and Sour Chicken?

Sweet and sour chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish featuring crispy battered chicken tossed in a glossy, vibrant sauce made of vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and ketchup. The combination of sweetness from sugar and pineapple juice, tanginess from vinegar, and savory soy sauce creates a harmonious balance of flavors.

This dish is often paired with colorful bell peppers, onions, and pineapple chunks, adding a burst of freshness and texture. While it’s commonly found on takeout menus, making it at home ensures fresher ingredients, better flavors, and a healthier option without sacrificing taste.

Unlike other fried chicken dishes, sweet and sour chicken stands out due to its signature sticky glaze, which coats each crispy bite without making it soggy. The contrast of crunchy chicken and silky sauce is what makes it an absolute favorite among food lovers worldwide.

Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this sweet and sour chicken recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never want to order takeout again!

Ingredients for Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

To achieve the perfect crispy, juicy, and flavorful sweet and sour chicken, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples along with a few fresh ingredients. Here’s everything required to bring this classic dish to life:

For the Crispy Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• ½ cup cornstarch – Ensures extra crispiness when frying.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – Helps create a light, golden-brown coating.
• 2 eggs, beaten – Binds the coating to the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds mild heat and depth.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Boosts the overall taste.
• Vegetable oil for frying – Any high-smoke-point oil works best.

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce

• ½ cup ketchup – Provides color and sweetness.
• ⅓ cup rice vinegar – Adds the essential tangy kick.
• ¼ cup brown sugar – Balances the acidity.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Infuses a deep, umami-rich flavor.
• ½ cup pineapple juice – Brings a subtle fruity sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water – Thickens the sauce perfectly.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – Optional, for a spicy twist.

For the Stir-Fry

• 1 cup pineapple chunks – Fresh or canned, for a juicy pop of flavor.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced – Adds color and crunch.
• 1 green bell pepper, diced – Complements the sauce’s tanginess.
• 1 small onion, sliced – Enhances texture and aroma.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

Making this sweet and sour chicken recipe is simpler than you think! Follow these easy steps for the best results:

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Coat each piece in cornstarch for an extra-crispy texture.
3. Dip into beaten eggs, then dredge in flour, making sure each piece is well coated.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch.
4. Drain excess oil by placing the fried chicken on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 3: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce

1. In a saucepan, combine ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and pineapple juice.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the cornstarch slurry and mix until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet.
2. Stir-fry the bell peppers, onions, and pineapple chunks for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

1. Add the crispy fried chicken to the stir-fried vegetables.
2. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over everything and toss well.
3. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Enjoy!

• Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
• Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for an extra touch.

This homemade sweet and sour chicken recipe is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for the Best Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

✅ Double-coating the chicken ensures it stays crispy longer.
✅ Fry in small batches to prevent soggy chicken.
✅ Adjust the sauce’s sweetness or tanginess to your preference.
✅ Use fresh pineapple for a richer, tropical taste.
✅ Toss the chicken in the sauce just before serving to keep it crunchy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Overcrowding the pan while frying can make the chicken soggy.
🚫 Skipping cornstarch in the batter results in less crispy chicken.
🚫 Overcooking the sauce makes it overly thick and sticky.
🚫 Adding too much vinegar can overpower the balance of flavors.

FAQs About Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

1. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! Prepare the sauce and chicken separately. Reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer before serving.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan for the best texture.

3. Can I Make It Spicy?

Yes! Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha for extra heat.

4. What Can I Serve With It?

Pair with steamed rice, fried rice, lo mein, or stir-fried veggies.

Final Thoughts – Try This Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe Today!

This sweet and sour chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, delicious flavors and crispy, saucy chicken. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this simple, foolproof recipe will help you create restaurant-quality results right at home.

If you want to explore more authentic Chinese flavors, check out Serious Eats’ Guide to Chinese Cooking, where you’ll find expert tips and traditional recipes. Additionally, if you’re interested in learning how to perfect your frying techniques, visit The Kitchn’s Guide to Crispy Fried Chicken for a step-by-step breakdown on achieving the best texture.

Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! 🍽️🥢

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