Description
This Oven-Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken Delight is a healthier, easy-to-make version of the classic Chinese-American favorite. Crispy chicken pieces are coated in a flavorful sweet and sour sauce made from simple ingredients like vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Baked in the oven for a hands-off approach, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. It’s an irresistible combination of sweet and savory that will satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Dredge in cornstarch and dip in the beaten eggs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces in batches, then transfer them to the prepared baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken, making sure all pieces are coated.
- Bake for 60 minutes, turning the chicken pieces every 15 minutes to ensure even sauce coverage.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- For added flavor and texture, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or pineapple.
- To make it spicier, add crushed red pepper flakes or chili sauce.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch.
- The chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese-American
