Name: Sweet Sour Chicken: A Glorious 20 Min Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Chinese-American
Ingredients: 1.5 lb (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces; 1 large egg; 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari); 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine or dry sherry; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp white or black pepper; 1/2 cup (60 g) cornstarch; 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 cup (120 ml) pineapple juice; 1/3 cup (80 ml) unseasoned rice vinegar; 1/3 cup (67 g) granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (120 g) ketchup; 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tsp toasted sesame oil (optional); 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry); 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 small yellow onion, cut into 1-inch wedges; 1 cup (165 g) pineapple chunks, drained; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional); 3 cups (700 ml) neutral oil (canola, peanut, or vegetable); 2 scallions, thinly sliced; 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Jump to Recipe

Sweet Sour Chicken has always been my go-to when I crave something both comforting and exciting. I remember my first taste of authentic Chinese sweet and sour chicken at a bustling restaurant – that perfectly crispy chicken coated in a glossy, vibrant sauce was pure magic. It felt like such a treat, and I’ve been chasing that flavor ever since. Now, I’ve perfected my own homemade sweet and sour chicken recipe that captures all those delicious sweet, tangy, and savory notes, plus that irresistible crunch. It’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners, bringing a little bit of restaurant joy right into my kitchen. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Sour Chicken

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons:

Incredible Taste: Get ready for that perfect balance of tangy and sweet, with a satisfying crunch that rivals your favorite takeout.
Quick Prep: With only 20 minutes of prep, this easy sweet and sour chicken is ideal for busy weeknights.
Healthier Homemade: You control the ingredients, making it a better-for-you option than many restaurant versions.
Budget-Friendly: Using common pantry staples and chicken thighs makes this a cost-effective meal.
Family Favorite: Even picky eaters adore this classic dish, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Versatile: This easy sweet and sour chicken recipe is incredibly adaptable to your favorite veggies.
Delicious Glaze: The glossy, homemade sauce is a flavor explosion you’ll want to drizzle on everything.

Ingredients for Homemade Sweet and Sour Chicken

Gathering these sweet and sour chicken ingredients is the first step to achieving that perfect takeaway flavor at home. You’ll need:

1.5 lb (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs – cut into 1-inch pieces, thighs stay extra juicy
1 large egg – for binding the coating
1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari) – adds a savory depth to the marinade
1 tbsp Shaoxing wine or dry sherry – essential for authentic flavor
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp white or black pepper
1/2 cup (60 g) cornstarch – key for that signature crispy coating
1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour – also contributes to the crispiness
1/2 tsp baking powder – helps create an even lighter, crispier texture
1/2 cup (120 ml) pineapple juice – the base for our tangy-sweet sauce
1/3 cup (80 ml) unseasoned rice vinegar – provides the essential sour element
1/3 cup (67 g) granulated sugar – for sweetness and that lovely glaze
1/2 cup (120 g) ketchup – adds color, sweetness, and body to the sauce
2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce – for saltiness and umami
1 tsp toasted sesame oil (optional) – adds a nutty aroma
1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water – this slurry thickens the sauce beautifully
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 small yellow onion, cut into 1-inch wedges
1 cup (165 g) pineapple chunks, drained – for that classic sweet and fruity bite
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional) – adds a warm zing
3 cups (700 ml) neutral oil (canola, peanut, or vegetable) – for frying the chicken
2 scallions, thinly sliced – for garnish
1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional) – for garnish

How to Make Sweet Sour Chicken

Making this sweet sour chicken stir fry at home is surprisingly straightforward, and the results are incredible! Get ready for that perfect balance of tangy and sweet with a delightful crunch.

Step 1: Prep and Marinate the Chicken
First, let’s get that chicken ready. In a bowl, whisk together the egg, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, salt, and pepper. Add your chicken pieces and toss them to coat everything evenly. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes; this step is crucial for infusing flavor and tenderizing the chicken.
Step 2: Create the Tangy Sweet Sour Sauce
Now for the star of the show – the sauce! In a small saucepan, whisk the pineapple juice, rice vinegar, sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, and optional sesame oil. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes. Then, whisk in the cornstarch and water slurry and continue to simmer for another 1–2 minutes until it thickens into a glossy, beautiful sauce. Keep it warm.
Step 3: Coat and Fry for Crispy Chicken
In a separate bowl, mix your cornstarch, flour, and baking powder for the dry coating. Dredge the marinated chicken pieces in this mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. Shake off any excess. Heat your neutral oil in a deep skillet or wok to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches for 4–5 minutes, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Drain them on a wire rack to maintain that crispy sweet and sour chicken texture.

Step 4: Stir-fry Vegetables and Pineapple
Carefully pour off all but 1 tablespoon of the frying oil. Add the red and green bell peppers and the onion wedges to the hot pan. Stir-fry them over medium-high heat for about 2–3 minutes until they’re crisp-tender. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger (if using) and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the pineapple chunks and stir for just 30 seconds more.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish Your Sweet Sour Chicken
Return the crispy fried chicken pieces back into the pan with the stir-fried vegetables and pineapple. Pour the warm, glossy sweet and sour sauce over everything. Toss gently over medium heat for 1–2 minutes, ensuring every piece of chicken and every vegetable is coated in that delicious sauce. This final toss brings your sweet sour chicken stir fry together perfectly.

Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Sour Chicken

Want to elevate your homemade sweet and sour chicken from good to absolutely amazing? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference:

For that ultimate crunch, consider a double-fry. Fry the chicken once at a slightly lower temperature (325°F/165°C) until lightly golden, let it rest, then fry again at a higher heat (375°F/190°C) until deeply golden.
Ensure your chicken pieces are thoroughly dry before marinating and coating. This helps the coating adhere better, preventing sogginess.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Cook chicken in batches to maintain the oil temperature, ensuring each piece fries evenly and gets crispy.
Have all your stir-fry ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking the vegetables. This is key for a successful stir-fry.

What’s the secret to perfect crispy sweet and sour chicken?

The biggest secret is the coating and the frying technique! Using a mix of cornstarch, flour, and a touch of baking powder creates a light, airy crust. For that extra-crisp factor, make sure the oil is at the correct temperature (350°F/175°C) and don’t overcrowd the pan. A good sweet sour chicken glaze also needs to be thick enough to coat without making the chicken soggy. For more tips on achieving perfect crispiness, you can explore techniques for frying.

Can I make sweet sour chicken ahead of time?

You can prepare components ahead of time, which is great for meal prep! Marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce up to a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. However, I highly recommend frying the chicken and stir-frying the vegetables just before serving to ensure maximum crispiness and freshness.

How do I avoid common mistakes with sweet sour chicken?

A common pitfall is soggy chicken – this usually happens if the oil isn’t hot enough or if you overcrowd the pan. Another mistake is an unbalanced sauce; make sure to taste and adjust the sugar and vinegar. For a vibrant, glossy sauce, thicken it with the cornstarch slurry at the end, but don’t let it boil vigorously for too long. Learning about proper sauce making can be very helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Sweet Sour Chicken

This delightful chicken with sweet and sour sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. My absolute favorite way to enjoy it is over a bed of fluffy, steamed white rice, which perfectly soaks up that glorious sauce. For a bit more texture and flavor, try serving it alongside some stir-fried noodles – the chewiness of the noodles complements the crisp chicken beautifully. You could also serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas for a bit of green and a healthy crunch. It’s a complete meal that’s always a hit! For more ideas on side dishes, check out these food pairings.

Nutrition Facts for Sweet Sour Chicken

Here’s a look at the nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious homemade sweet and sour chicken. It’s a flavorful meal that balances your macros nicely.

Calories: 520cal
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 62g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 0mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Sweet Sour Chicken

Don’t let any of this deliciousness go to waste! Proper quick sweet and sour chicken storage will help you enjoy leftovers for days. First, allow the chicken and vegetables to cool down completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the chicken and sauce mixture into an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, you can freeze it for about 3 months. Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container or bag.

When it’s time to reheat, the goal is to bring back that delightful crispiness. My favorite method is in the oven or an air fryer. Spread the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket and reheat at around 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Microwaving can sometimes make the chicken a bit soft, so I usually avoid that if crispiness is a priority. For tips on reheating, consider looking into food reheating techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Sour Chicken

What is sweet and sour chicken?

Sweet sour chicken is a beloved Chinese-American dish known for its vibrant flavor profile. It features pieces of crispy fried chicken coated in a glossy sauce that is a perfect balance of tangy and sweet. It’s often served with colorful vegetables like bell peppers and onions, and sometimes pineapple, making it a visually appealing and delicious meal.

Why is sweet and sour chicken popular?

Its popularity stems from that irresistible combination of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, along with the delightful textural contrast between the crispy chicken and the smooth sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to a wide range of tastes, making it a go-to choice for families and anyone looking for a satisfying meal. Achieving an authentic sweet and sour chicken taste at home is also incredibly rewarding!

Is homemade sweet and sour chicken healthier than takeout?

Generally, yes! When you make homemade sweet and sour chicken, you have complete control over the ingredients. You can use leaner cuts of chicken, control the amount of sugar and sodium in the sauce, and opt for healthier cooking methods if you choose, like baking or air frying. This allows you to reduce excess oil and preservatives often found in restaurant versions.

Can I make the sweet and sour chicken sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The sauce is one of the best components to prepare in advance. You can mix all the sauce ingredients (except the cornstarch slurry) and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce and then add the cornstarch slurry to thicken it to the desired consistency. This makes assembling your sweet sour chicken stir fry even quicker!

Variations of Sweet Sour Chicken You Can Try

While this recipe delivers that classic, craveable sweet sour chicken takeaway style, don’t be afraid to get creative! If you’re looking for a lighter option, try making a healthy sweet and sour chicken by baking or air frying the chicken pieces instead of deep frying. You can also swap out the traditional bell peppers and onions for other colorful vegetables like broccoli florets, snap peas, or even carrots for added nutrients and a different flavor profile. For a quicker meal, you can even skip the stir-frying of vegetables and simply toss the sauce-coated chicken with pre-cooked or steamed veggies. Experimenting with different cooking methods and ingredients will help you discover your own perfect version of this beloved dish!

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