Irresistible Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe to Delight You

Name: Sweet and Sour Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 1 cup fresh bell peppers, chopped (red and green); 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar); 2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water; 1 tsp sesame oil

Recipe By:

James Walker

Posted:

August 29, 2025

Updated:

August 29, 2025

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There’s something magical about the perfect balance of flavors in sweet and sour chicken. Imagine tender pieces of chicken coated in a glossy, tangy sauce that dances between sweet and savory, each bite bursting with vibrant colors and aromas. The crunch of bell peppers and pineapple adds an exciting texture, making it not just a meal but a celebration on your plate.

I remember the first time I attempted this dish. It was my friend’s birthday, and I wanted to impress everyone with my culinary skills. Let’s just say I wasn’t prepared for the explosion of flavor that awaited me—and my guests! Sweet and sour chicken became a staple at our gatherings, and I could almost hear the oohs and aahs as we dug in. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively party, this dish is bound to steal the spotlight.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This quick sweet and sour chicken recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for special occasions
The flavor profile is a delightful mix of tangy sweetness and savory goodness that appeals to all ages
Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning, ensuring it’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate
You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or protein options for ultimate versatility

The first time I served sweet and sour chicken, my friends declared it “the best thing ever,” leading to requests for seconds—and thirds!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for perfect tenderness; adjust based on your guest list.
Fresh Bell Peppers: Choose red and green peppers for a colorful presentation; their crunch adds great texture.
Pineapple Chunks: Fresh pineapple is best, but canned works too; it provides that signature sweetness.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic brings aromatic depth; minced or sliced works well depending on your preference.
Onion: A yellow onion adds sweetness when cooked; chop it finely to blend into the sauce beautifully.

For the Sauce:

Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to better control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
Brown Sugar: This creates that lovely caramelization; adjust the quantity if you prefer less sweetness.
Rice Vinegar: Adds brightness and acidity; substitute with apple cider vinegar if necessary.
Cornstarch: Use this to thicken your sauce; mix it with water before adding to prevent clumping.
Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle enhances the overall flavor profile; it’s rich and nutty.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your chicken into bite-sized pieces while admiring how colorful everything looks—it’s like prepping for an edible masterpiece.

Create The Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch mixed with water, and sesame oil until smooth. Take a moment to inhale those aromas—pure bliss!

Sauté The Chicken: Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces; cook until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes), flipping occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Add Vegetables: Toss in garlic, onions, bell peppers, and pineapple chunks once your chicken is golden. Stir-fry until the onions turn translucent and release their sweet aroma—about 3-5 minutes will do nicely.

Pour In The Sauce: Carefully pour your sauce mixture over the sautéed chicken and veggies. Stir well until everything is coated evenly; watch as it thickens into luscious goodness!

Serve And Enjoy: Once everything is sizzling perfectly together (about another 2 minutes), remove from heat. Serve hot over rice or noodles—bonus points if you garnish with sesame seeds or green onions!

And there you have it—a deliciously vibrant plate of sweet and sour chicken ready to wow your family or friends!

You Must Know

Sweet and sour chicken offers a delightful balance of flavors that can brighten any meal
The vibrant colors and aromas not only make it visually appealing but also tantalize your taste buds
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself going back for seconds

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. Sear it until golden brown, then cook your sauce while the chicken finishes in the oven. This method ensures juicy, flavorful chicken every time.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out bell peppers for broccoli or add pineapple chunks for extra sweetness. A dash of chili flakes can also bring some heat to your sweet and sour chicken, making it uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover sweet and sour chicken in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, maintaining its delicious flavor and texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve the perfect sweet and sour sauce, balance the sugar and vinegar carefully; too much of either can overpower the dish
Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for maximum flavor impact
And don’t forget to taste as you go!

Sweet and sour chicken has been a family favorite since I first made it for my friends’ potluck. They devoured it so quickly, I barely got one piece!

FAQs

FAQ

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

Boneless chicken breasts or thighs work best for tender, juicy bites in sweet and sour chicken.

Can I make sweet and sour chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead; just cook the chicken right before serving.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use air-fried or baked chicken instead of frying to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor.

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