Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts, cubed; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp oil; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped; 1/2 red onion, chopped; 1 cup pineapple chunks; 1 tbsp sesame seeds; 2 tbsp parsley or cilantro, chopped

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This Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a medley of colorful vegetables and juicy pineapple chunks, all coated in a tangy, glossy sauce. It’s a classic takeout favorite made easily at home, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory elements with a touch of acidity that keeps every bite exciting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the perfect fusion of flavors and textures. The chicken is juicy and tender, while the vegetables add a delightful crunch. The sweet and sour sauce ties everything together beautifully with its bold, zesty taste. It’s an easy and satisfying dinner option that works great for weeknights yet is impressive enough to serve guests. Additionally, this recipe is highly versatile and can be adjusted to suit various dietary preferences.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Red bell pepper, chopped
Yellow bell pepper, chopped
Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
Red onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Cornstarch (for coating the chicken)
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Soy sauce
Rice vinegar or white vinegar
Ketchup
Brown sugar
Water
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste

directions

Coat the chicken pieces in cornstarch and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Heat oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté garlic, bell peppers, and red onion until just tender.
Add pineapple chunks and cooked chicken back to the skillet.
In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, and water to form the sweet and sour sauce.
Pour the sauce into the skillet and simmer for a few minutes until thickened and everything is well coated.
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped parsley or green onions.
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add sliced red chili or a dash of chili sauce for extra heat.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh.
Low-Sugar Version: Use pineapple in juice without added sugar and reduce the amount of brown sugar.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Extra Crunch: Toss in cashews or water chestnuts.

storage/reheating

Store leftover sweet and sour chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until thoroughly heated, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

What type of chicken is best for sweet and sour chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for their tender texture and quick cooking time.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, canned pineapple chunks in juice (not syrup) are a convenient and suitable substitute.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the coated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the skillet, cooking until it thickens.

Can I freeze sweet and sour chicken?

Yes, let the dish cool completely before freezing. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What can I serve with sweet and sour chicken?

It pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. A side of stir-fried vegetables is also a great addition.

How do I prevent the vegetables from getting too soft?

Stir-fry the vegetables quickly over high heat to retain their crunch and color.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat this dish without drying it out?

Use a skillet and add a splash of water to help retain moisture. Stir frequently over medium heat.

Conclusion

Sweet and Sour Chicken is a timeless favorite that brings together a delightful medley of flavors in one easy-to-make dish. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe offers a delicious solution that never fails to satisfy. With its vibrant colors and bold taste, it is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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Colorful, tangy, and packed with bold flavor, this sweet and sour chicken is tossed in a sticky sauce with bell peppers, pineapple, and sesame seeds. Just like takeout—but better!