Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

Name: Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup pineapple juice; 1/2 cup rice vinegar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water; Cooked rice; Sliced green onions; Sesame seeds

Published: January 16, 2025

by Jennifer

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Why This Recipe Works

Balance of Flavors

When it comes to creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious, achieving a balance of flavors is crucial. In this Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe, we take the classic sweet and tangy notes and elevate them to perfection. The use of pineapple juice and brown sugar provides that sweet undertone, while rice vinegar adds a sharpness that cuts through the richness of the chicken. This harmonious balance makes every bite of sweet and sour chicken a delightful experience, ensuring that no single flavor overpowers the others.

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Perfect Texture

Texture plays a pivotal role in our enjoyment of food. In this recipe, we achieve that perfect contrast between the crispy exterior of the chicken and the luscious, saucy coating. By baking the chicken instead of frying it, we ensure that it retains moisture while still developing a satisfying crunch from the breadcrumb coating. The sweet and sour sauce adds a glossy finish, making each piece of chicken not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes.

Simple Cooking Technique

Simplicity is key in any home-cooked meal. One of the reasons why this Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken has gained popularity is its straightforward cooking technique. With just a few steps, you can create a wholesome dish that feels gourmet but doesn’t require culinary expertise. This method allows for a stress-free cooking experience, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, while still impressing your loved ones with a restaurant-quality meal.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Sweet And Sour Chicken

Family-Friendly Meal

Finding a meal that pleases everyone at the table can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. However, this Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a winner for all ages. Kids are typically drawn to the sweet flavors, while adults appreciate the complexity of the sauce. It’s a meal that can bring families together, making it a staple for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Everyone can enjoy and savor the flavors, making mealtime not just about eating, but about connecting.

Healthier Alternative

In today’s health-conscious world, many people are looking for ways to enjoy their favorite foods without the guilt. This Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken offers a healthier alternative to traditional fried versions. By baking instead of frying, we reduce the calorie count while still achieving that delicious, crispy finish. Additionally, using boneless, skinless chicken thighs provides a lean protein source, making this dish not only tasty but also a better option for those watching their health.

Quick and Easy Preparation

Let’s face it; we all lead busy lives. The last thing anyone wants after a long day is to spend hours in the kitchen. This Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is designed with convenience in mind. With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour. This is the kind of recipe that fits seamlessly into your routine, allowing you to whip up something special without sacrificing time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce

1 cup pineapple juice
1/2 cup rice vinegar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

For Serving

Cooked rice
Sliced green onions
Sesame seeds

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

First and foremost, let’s get our chicken ready. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, take the boneless, skinless chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is essential as moisture can inhibit the crispiness of the chicken.

Next, set up your breading station: in one bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs until they’re frothy. Finally, place the breadcrumbs in a third bowl. This three-step process will help you achieve that perfect coating.

Now, dip each chicken thigh into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, move it to the egg wash, allowing any extra to drip off before finishing with the breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is well-coated; this will contribute to that desirable crunch we’re aiming for.

Baking the Chicken

Once your chicken is breaded, it’s time to bake! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and place the chicken thighs on it, ensuring they are spaced out evenly. This allows hot air to circulate, promoting even cooking.

Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. You can use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C).

If you want an extra crispy finish, feel free to broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Making the Sweet and Sour Sauce

While the chicken is baking, you can whip up the sweet and sour sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the pineapple juice, rice vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Stir these ingredients together until the sugar has dissolved and everything is well combined.

Next, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. To thicken the sauce, add the cornstarch mixed with water, stirring continuously. This will help create that luscious, glossy sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken. Allow it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency, then remove it from the heat.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains juicy when you cut into it.

Now it’s time to combine everything! In a large bowl, pour the sweet and sour sauce over the baked chicken, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly. You can also serve the sauce on the side if you prefer a lighter coating.

Serving Suggestions

To serve your Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken, place a generous portion over a bed of fluffy, cooked rice. This will help soak up all the delicious sauce! For an extra touch of flavor and color, sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a nice crunch and freshness to the dish.

Feel free to pair this meal with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to round out your dinner. This combination creates a vibrant and colorful plate that is sure to impress anyone who sits down at your table.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor, you can certainly substitute them with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that chicken breasts may be a bit drier, so be careful not to overcook them.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Making this recipe gluten-free is quite simple! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure that the soy sauce is also gluten-free, as traditional soy sauce contains wheat. With these substitutions, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without the gluten.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet and sour sauce ahead of time! Simply follow the sauce instructions, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you’re ready to use it, just reheat on the stove while your chicken is baking.

What can I serve with Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it over rice—white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You could also add a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers to complement the flavors. A simple cucumber salad can also provide a refreshing crunch.

In conclusion, this Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe not only satisfies your cravings for something sweet and tangy but also simplifies your meal prep. With its delightful flavors, satisfying textures, and ease of preparation, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself returning to time and again. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and savor each bite of this delicious meal!

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