Name: Crispy Oven Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying); 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil

Crispy Oven Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken Better Than Takeout is a dish that captures the essence of comfort food with its tangy glaze and crispy texture. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?”

Imagine biting into tender chicken coated in a glossy, sweet sauce that dances on your taste buds. This delightful dish brightens up weeknight dinners or special gatherings, making it a staple in my home.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Crispy Oven Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
With its delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike
Plus, you can customize the ingredients based on your preferences or pantry staples

Sharing this dish always brings smiles; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was at our last gathering.

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers add crunch and sweetness; mix red and green for visual appeal
Pineapple Chunks: Use fresh or canned pineapple for that juicy burst of sweetness
Brown Sugar: This adds depth to the sauce; for a twist, try coconut sugar instead
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control the saltiness without sacrificing flavor
Ketchup: Provides a tangy base for the sauce; don’t skimp on this ingredient
Cornstarch: A must for achieving that crispy coating on the chicken
Vegetable Oil: Use oil with a high smoke point for frying; canola oil works well here

For the Sauce:

Apple Cider Vinegar: Gives the dish its signature tang; adjust according to your taste preference
Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle adds an authentic Asian twist to your sauce

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

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Chicken Coating: In one bowl, mix cornstarch with salt and pepper. The cornstarch coating will create that delightful crispiness you’re after!

Dredge the Chicken Pieces: Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in the cornstarch mixture until they’re fully coated—this step is crucial for maximum crunch.

Sauté Aromatics and Veggies: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of vegetable oil. Toss in minced garlic until fragrant, then throw in chopped bell peppers. Sauté until they soften slightly, about 2-3 minutes.

Create the Sweet and Sour Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and sesame oil until smooth. The mixture should resemble a glossy syrup—yum!

Combine Everything!: Place the chicken pieces on your prepared baking sheet. Pour half of the sweet and sour sauce over them evenly. Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.

After baking, remove from the oven and toss everything with leftover sauce while it’s still hot. Serve it over fluffy rice or noodles to soak up that delicious glaze!

Cooking this Crispy Oven Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken Better Than Takeout might become your new favorite family tradition!

You Must Know

This crispy oven baked sweet and sour chicken is not just healthier but incredibly easy to make
The balance of tangy sweetness and crunch will have your taste buds dancing
It looks delightful on any table, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. Preheat your oven while preparing the sauce, then bake the chicken until golden and crispy.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp. Experiment with different veggies like bell peppers or broccoli to add more color and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it stays crispy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve that irresistible crunch, coat chicken evenly with cornstarch before baking
Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking
Don’t skip the marination step; it adds depth of flavor that makes this dish shine

It’s funny how cooking this dish reminds me of my first attempt at making takeout-style food. I had friends over, and let’s just say my first batch was more “sweet” than “sour.” But after a few tweaks, they couldn’t get enough!

FAQs

FAQ

What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?

You can use tofu, shrimp, or even seitan for a delicious alternative.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Add a bit more cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce effectively.

Can I freeze leftovers of sweet and sour chicken?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to three months for best results.