ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, then into the beaten eggs, and back into the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of the chicken to help it crisp up during baking.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 2: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, cornstarch, garlic powder, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes smooth.
- Once the sauce is ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken in Sauce
- Once the chicken is fully cooked and golden, remove it from the oven and transfer the pieces to a large bowl.
- Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly, ensuring each piece is covered in that delicious sauce.
- Optionally, return the chicken to the oven for 5 more minutes to allow the sauce to set on the chicken.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve the baked sweet and sour chicken immediately, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped green onions, if desired.
- Pair it with your favorite side, like steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a side salad.
Serving Suggestions
🍚 With Rice: Serve the chicken over steamed jasmine rice or brown rice to balance out the sweet and sour flavors.
🥦 Vegetables on the Side: Pair it with some stir-fried broccoli, carrots, or a crunchy slaw for extra texture and freshness.
🥗 With a Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will complement the richness of the chicken and sauce perfectly.
🍞 Crusty Bread: Serve with some crusty bread to scoop up the sauce—because it’s just too good to leave behind.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
✔ Make-Ahead: You can prep the chicken ahead of time by coating it in the flour mixture and storing it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. The sauce can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
✔ Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
✔ Freezing: You can freeze the baked chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and combining.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Sweet & Sour Chicken recipe is the perfect balance of crispy, juicy chicken and a tangy, sweet sauce that will leave you coming back for more. The fact that it’s baked instead of fried makes it a healthier option, without sacrificing any of the flavor or texture you crave. It’s an easy recipe that’s perfect for any night of the week or for a special dinner. Whether you serve it for a casual meal or impress your guests, you can’t go wrong with this delicious dish.
So, give it a try, and let the sweet and sour goodness sweep you off your feet! 😋🍽️
ADVERTISEMENT
