This Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a healthier, oven-baked twist on the takeout classic! Juicy chicken coated in a crispy crust, baked to golden perfection, and tossed in a tangy-sweet sauce that’s pure magic. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests! 🍽️
🛒 Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 🐓 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 🧂 1 tsp salt
- 🧂 1/2 tsp pepper
- 🥄 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 🥚 2 large eggs, beaten
- 🛢️ 1/4 cup vegetable oil
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- 🍍 1/2 cup sugar
- 🍅 1/4 cup ketchup
- 🍯 1/4 cup honey (optional for extra sweetness)
- 🌾 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 🥄 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌶️ 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional for a kick)
🔥 Instructions:
1️⃣ Prep the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Coat each piece in cornstarch, then dip into the beaten eggs.
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken:
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Lightly brown the chicken on all sides (don’t fully cook, as it will finish in the oven). Place the chicken in a single layer in a greased baking dish.
3️⃣ Make the Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together sugar, ketchup, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Add chili flakes if desired.
4️⃣ Bake:
- Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken.
- Bake uncovered for 50-60 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to coat the chicken in the sauce.
5️⃣ Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Serve over steamed rice and garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
🍯 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthier Option: Baked, not fried, for a guilt-free indulgence.
- Easy & Versatile: Perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
- Takeout at Home: All the flavor of your favorite restaurant dish made with simple, fresh ingredients.
- Balanced Flavors: The perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory in every bite.
Enjoy this easy, delicious Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken tonight! 🍍🍗✨