Easy Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a delightful, crowd-pleasing meal that’s both healthy and bursting with vibrant flavors, then this Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is your new best friend. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, and offers a perfect balance of tangy sweetness and savory goodness – all baked to perfection without any greasy mess. Whether you’re cooking for your family or inviting friends over, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds with its crispy chicken pieces and fresh, colorful sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready from start to finish in under 40 minutes, making dinner stress-free.
• Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, which means less oil and fewer calories without sacrificing flavor.
• Family Friendly: The sweet and tangy sauce appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Works well with rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad, making it adaptable for any meal occasion.
• Colorful Presentation: Packed with bell peppers and pineapple chunks for a bright and appetizing plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe plays a vital role, from creating the crispy crust to balancing the tangy sauce flavors with sweet and savory notes. Let’s break down the essentials that make this dish truly shine.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose boneless, skinless pieces for easy baking and tender results.
• Bell peppers: Adds crunch and vibrant color, enhancing both texture and appeal.
• Pineapple chunks: Provides natural sweetness and juiciness to contrast the tangy sauce.
• Cornstarch: Key to getting a light, crispy coating on the chicken without deep-frying.
• Soy sauce: Adds savory depth and umami to the sauce.
• Rice vinegar: Gives the sauce its signature tangy kick.
• Brown sugar: Balances acidity with just the right amount of sweetness.
• Ketchup: Brings a subtle tomato flavor and thickens the sauce perfectly.
• Garlic and ginger: Infuse the dish with fresh, aromatic warmth.
• Olive oil or cooking spray: Helps crisp the chicken in the oven without excessive grease.

Variations for Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. Whether you want to cater to dietary preferences or add a new twist to the classic, here are some easy ways to customize your Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken.

• Gluten-free option: Substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder and use gluten-free soy sauce for safe dining.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for heat lovers.
• Vegetarian swap: Replace chicken with tofu or cauliflower for a meat-free alternative.
• Extra veggies: Toss in snap peas, carrots, or broccoli to boost the nutritional value and crunch.
• Less sweet version: Cut back on brown sugar and increase rice vinegar to emphasize the tangy flavors.

How to Make Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in cornstarch until each piece is lightly coated to ensure they get that irresistible, crispy texture once baked.

Step 2: Arrange for Baking

Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Spray lightly with cooking oil, which helps them crisp up nicely without the need for frying.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning and crunch.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While the chicken bakes, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, letting it thicken until glossy and smooth.

Step 5: Combine and Add Veggies

Once the chicken is golden and crispy, toss it with diced bell peppers and pineapple chunks in a large bowl. Pour the sauce over everything and stir gently until every piece is coated beautifully.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Your delicious Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is ready to be plated alongside fluffy white rice, noodles, or steamed veggies for a complete, satisfying meal.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

• Use high heat: Baking at 400°F helps get the chicken crispy without drying it out.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give chicken pieces enough space to crisp evenly, avoiding sogginess.
• Make sauce ahead: Preparing the sauce in advance can save time during busy evenings.
• Balance flavors: Taste the sauce before combining; add more vinegar or sugar to suit your preference.
• Rest before serving: Let the dish sit a couple of minutes after mixing for the flavors to marry perfectly.

How to Serve Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or fresh cilantro over the dish for a burst of color, texture, and fresh aroma that make every bite exciting.

Side Dishes

Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine or basmati rice, stir-fried noodles, or even a crisp Asian slaw for refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it in colorful bowls or on banana leaves for a tropical flair. You can also load it atop lettuce cups for a fun and light handheld meal that’s perfect for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! Store in freezer-safe containers, separating the sauce and chicken if possible, for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven or an air fryer to revive the crispy texture, or gently warm in a skillet on the stove to avoid sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay juicier and offer more flavor, which works perfectly in this baked recipe.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s excellent for meal prepping since it stores well and reheats beautifully without losing texture or flavor.

Can I make the sauce vegan?

Simply use tamari or a vegan soy sauce alternative, and omit any non-vegan ingredients to keep the sauce plant-based.

What should I serve with this chicken?

Classic options include steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. A side of steamed vegetables or fresh salad also complements the dish nicely.

How do I make the chicken extra crispy?

Ensure even coating with cornstarch and bake at a high temperature without overcrowding the pan, flipping halfway through baking.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is a true gem that combines ease, healthiness, and flavor all in one dish. It’s a wholesome, vibrant meal that will quickly become a staple at your dinner table. Give it a try, and watch how quickly everyone falls in love with its bright, comforting taste!

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