Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is like a warm hug from your grandmother, wrapped in a crispy, tangy shell of happiness. Picture this: juicy chunks of chicken, bathed in a luscious sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and sour—it’s not just food; it’s an experience! This dish fills your kitchen with aromas that whisk you back to family gatherings where laughter mingles with the sizzle of chicken dancing in the oven. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Now, let’s get real for a second. Who doesn’t love a dish that can make your taste buds do the cha-cha while also being super easy to whip up? Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is here to save the day. Trust me, once you taste this delightful concoction, you’ll be planning your next dinner party just so you can show off your culinary prowess!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful recipe combines ease of preparation with unforgettable flavors that dance on your palate.
- The vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas make it a feast for both the eyes and the stomach.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what’s in your pantry, making it as versatile as your favorite pair of sweatpants.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive occasions when you want to impress without stressing out.
Ingredients for Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work perfectly, but feel free to adjust for how hungry your crowd is!
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves to pack a flavorful punch in every bite.
- Bell Peppers: A mix of red and green adds color and crunch—plus, they’re great for sneaking in some veggies!
- Pineapple Chunks: Use fresh or canned; they bring that sweet zing we all love in sweet and sour dishes.
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce so you control the saltiness while still getting that umami goodness.
- Brown Sugar: This will sweeten things up nicely—go ahead, don’t be shy! slow cooker pork roast.
- Cornstarch: A little bit helps thicken that glorious sauce into perfection.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, grab a baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray. Season those chicken breasts with salt and pepper like you mean it!
Step 2: Chop It Up
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces—this isn’t an Olympic sport, so just aim for uniformity! Next, chop those bell peppers into strips and get ready for some pineapple fun.
Step 3: Whisk That Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic (minced), pineapple juice (from those chunks), and cornstarch. Whisk until everything is beautifully blended into one saucy harmony.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In your baking dish, toss together the chicken pieces, bell peppers, pineapple chunks, and half of the sauce mixture. Make sure every piece gets coated because we want flavor explosions in every bite!
Step 5: Bake Away
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (don’t want any sneaky dryness happening) and bake for about 25 minutes. After that time has passed (and you’ve probably started salivating), remove the foil and pour over the remaining sauce.
Step 6: Finish Baking
Put it back in the oven uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden. Your kitchen will smell like heaven!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Serve alongside fluffy rice or crispy noodles—it’s basically begging for something delicious to soak up all that amazing sauce! Enjoy every moment as you dig into this scrumptious meal!
You Must Know
- This amazing baked sweet and sour chicken dish offers more than just flavors; it transforms any weeknight dinner into a feast.
- With its vibrant colors and tangy aroma, it dazzles on your table and fills the room with delightful scents.
- Perfect for busy nights or cozy family gatherings.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating your chicken to infuse it with flavor while preheating the oven. Sear the chicken until golden brown, then whip up your sauce while the chicken bakes. This method ensures juicy chicken with perfectly balanced flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out veggies based on what’s in your fridge. Try adding pineapple for extra sweetness or toss in some bell peppers for crunch. Alternatively, use soy sauce instead of teriyaki for a different flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through, ensuring you maintain that delightful texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor impact; they can elevate even basic dishes.
- Avoid crowding the pan when searing; this helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking; this keeps it tender and juicy.
I once made baked sweet and sour chicken for a gathering, and everyone raved about it! My friend even begged me for the recipe, claiming I was a culinary genius—who knew? flavorful chicken stir fry.
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken?
For a delicious Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken, gather chicken breast, bell peppers, pineapple chunks, and a homemade sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, ketchup, and sugar. You’ll also need corn starch for thickening. This combination creates a delightful balance of flavors that will elevate your dish. Using fresh ingredients enhances the taste and ensures a satisfying meal for the whole family.
How long does it take to bake Sweet and Sour Chicken?
Baking Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken typically takes about 25 to 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Make sure to preheat your oven beforehand for optimal cooking. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure safety and proper cooking. Keep an eye on the chicken during the last few minutes to achieve a golden-brown finish.
Can I prepare Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken in advance! Marinate the chicken in the sweet and sour sauce for a few hours or overnight to enhance the flavor. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions.
What can I serve with Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken?
Pair your Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal. You can also add roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for extra nutrition. chicken salad for picnics These side dishes complement the tangy flavors of the chicken perfectly, making your dinner both satisfying and delicious.
Conclusion for Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken :
Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken offers a delightful mix of flavors that everyone will love. With simple ingredients like chicken breast, bell peppers, and pineapple, this dish is easy to prepare yet impressive enough for guests. garlic parmesan chicken Baking instead of frying keeps it healthier while still delivering that classic sweet-and-sour taste. Whether you make it ahead or enjoy it fresh from the oven, this recipe will surely become a family favorite!
Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a deliciously comforting dish that features tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and sweet pineapple, all enveloped in a tangy homemade sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, delivering a delightful balance of flavors that will leave everyone craving more. Serve it over fluffy rice or crispy noodles for a satisfying meal that impresses with every bite.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers (mixed red and green), sliced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, pineapple juice from the chunks, and cornstarch until smooth.
- In the prepared baking dish, combine chicken pieces, bell peppers, pineapple chunks, and half of the sauce; mix well.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, pour over remaining sauce, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly.
- Serve immediately with rice or noodles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Add other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for extra nutrition. Marinate the chicken in the sauce before baking for enhanced flavor.