Sweet and Sour Chicken

This Sweet and Sour Chicken is a restaurant-style dish featuring crispy fried chicken bites coated in a tangy, sticky, and flavorful sauce. It’s easy to make at home and pairs perfectly with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special homemade takeout night, this dish is guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 large egg, beaten
• ½ cup water
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

• ½ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons pineapple juice (optional, for extra sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)

For Garnish:

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Batter

1. In a bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. In another bowl, whisk together egg, water, and soy sauce.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then coat evenly in the flour mixture.
4. Set aside on a plate while heating the oil.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes per batch until golden and crispy.
3. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 3: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and pineapple juice.
2. Bring to a simmer, then add cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) and stir until the sauce thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in sesame oil for extra flavor.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

1. Place the fried chicken into a large bowl.
2. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the chicken and toss until evenly coated.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
2. Serve over steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
Pair with a side of stir-fried bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas.
Make it spicy by adding a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes.

Tips for the Best Sweet and Sour Chicken

Use Cornstarch for Extra Crispiness – A cornstarch coating creates a light, crispy texture.
Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer – Fry in small batches for even cooking.
Toss the Chicken in Sauce Right Before Serving – This keeps it crispy!
For a Healthier Version – Air-fry or bake the chicken instead of deep frying.

Conclusion

This homemade Sweet and Sour Chicken is crispy, tangy, and packed with flavor, making it better than takeout! Whether you love classic Asian flavors or quick and easy homemade meals, this dish is a must-try.

Would you like a baked version or an air-fryer adaptation?