Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In one shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs and water together. In a third dish, place the breadcrumbs.

Dip each chicken piece first into the flour mixture, coating it evenly, then into the egg mixture, and finally into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs stick. Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly drizzle or spray the chicken with olive oil to help it crisp up during baking.

2. Bake the Chicken:

Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides are golden and crispy. The chicken should be cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). While the chicken bakes, you can prepare the sweet and sour sauce.

3. Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk everything together over medium heat until it starts to simmer. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry, then pour it into the sauce, stirring constantly. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens to a nice, glossy consistency.

4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:

Once the chicken is baked and crispy, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the chicken and gently toss until each piece is evenly coated.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve your Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken over a bed of steamed rice, along with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an added burst of flavor and texture.

Tips for Success:

• Crispiness: For extra crispy chicken, bake the chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet so the heat circulates around the chicken, making it crisp all over.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add some bell peppers, onions, or pineapple to the dish for more texture and flavor, making it a complete meal in one.
• Sauce Adjustments: If you prefer a sweeter or tangier flavor, adjust the amount of honey or vinegar to suit your taste. For a thicker sauce, simply add a bit more cornstarch.
• Make-Ahead: The chicken can be baked in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just reheat it in the oven to maintain its crispiness, then toss it in the sauce before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken:

• Healthier Alternative: By baking instead of frying the chicken, this recipe is lower in fat and calories, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s ready in under an hour, making it an ideal go-to for busy evenings.
• Customizable: You can make this dish your own by adjusting the sauce ingredients or adding extra veggies. It’s versatile and adaptable to your preferences.

Conclusion:

This Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is a winner for anyone looking for a healthier twist on a classic dish. With crispy, flavorful chicken and a tangy, sweet sauce, it’s the perfect comfort food that won’t leave you feeling guilty. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!