BAKED SWEET AND SOUR CHICKEN

Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized chunks
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for drizzling)

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with non-stick spray.
• In a medium bowl, mix the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.
• Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, then dredge them in the flour mixture, making sure each piece is fully coated.
• Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
• Drizzle the chicken with vegetable oil to help it crisp up while baking.

2. Bake the Chicken:

• Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy.

3. Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

• While the chicken is baking, prepare the sweet and sour sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
• Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
• Once simmering, whisk in the cornstarch-water mixture to thicken the sauce. Continue cooking for 1-2 more minutes until the sauce becomes glossy and thickened.

4. Coat the Chicken:

• Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a large bowl.
• Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the baked chicken and toss to coat the chicken pieces evenly.

5. Serve:

• Serve the Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken over steamed rice, or with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flavor, if desired.

Tips:

• For Extra Crispy Chicken: You can spray the chicken pieces lightly with cooking spray before baking to help them become extra crispy.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Add bell peppers, onions, or pineapple chunks to the sweet and sour sauce for added flavor and texture.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time. Just assemble and bake the chicken when you’re ready to serve.

This Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a healthier version of the takeout classic, but just as delicious! It’s crispy, tangy, and packed with flavor. Enjoy! 🍗🍍