How to Make Sweet and Sour Chicken - A Step-by-Step Guide

Sweet and sour chicken is a classic Chinese dish that has become a staple in many households around the world. This dish is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, combined with tender, juicy chicken and crisp vegetables. It's a crowd-pleaser and is often a go-to choice for takeout, but making it at home is surprisingly easy and incredibly delicious.

The key to a successful sweet and sour chicken is the perfect combination of ingredients and the right cooking technique. The sauc...

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Ingredients

  • 1 ¾ cups water, divided
  • 1 (8 ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained (juice reserved)
  • ¾ cup white sugar
  • ½ cup distilled white vinegar
  • 2 drops orange food color
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 2 ¼ cups self-rising flour
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 egg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper
  • 1 ½ cups water
  • 8 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cut into 1 inch cubes
  • 1 quart vegetable oil for frying
  • 2 green bell pepper, cut into 1 inch pieces

Information

  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins
  • Total Time: 50 mins
  • Servings: 8

  • Combine 1 1/2 cups of water, reserved pineapple juice, sugar, vinegar, and orange food coloring in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat; set aside.
  • Mix 1/4 cup cornstarch and 1/4 cup water together in a small bowl until smooth; pour into the sauce, stirring continuously, until slightly thickened.
  • Place flour, 2 tablespoons oil, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, egg, salt, and white pepper in a large bowl; gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups water to make a thick batter.
  • Add chicken pieces; stir until well coated.
  • Heat oil in a large, deep skillet or wok to 360 degrees F (180 degrees C). Fry chicken pieces in preheated oil until golden, about 10 minutes; remove and drain on paper towels.
  • Layer green peppers, pineapple chunks, and cooked chicken pieces on a platter; pour hot sweet and sour sauce over top.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!
  • Nutrition

    639 cal.

    • Total Fat: 18g
    • Saturated Fat: 3g
    • Cholesterol: 160mg
    • Sodium: 759mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 56g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Total Sugars: 24g
    • Protein: 59g
    • Vitamin C: 29mg
    • Calcium: 159mg
    • Iron: 4mg
    • Potassium: 742mg