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Here’s a delicious recipe for Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken that’s crispy, flavorful, and easy to make! Instead of frying, this recipe uses the oven to bake the chicken, making it a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
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! 🍗🍍