Irresistible Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Craving takeout-style sweet and sour chicken but want a healthier homemade alternative? This baked sweet and sour chicken delivers the perfect balance of crispy, golden-brown chicken coated in a luscious, tangy-sweet sauce. Unlike deep-fried versions, this dish is oven-baked, making it lighter without sacrificing crunch or flavor. The glossy, caramelized glaze seeps into every bite, creating a dish that’s truly unforgettable. Pair it with fluffy rice for a restaurant-worthy meal that’s surprisingly easy to make!

Ingredients & Their Roles

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces – Provides a lean, protein-packed base for the dish.
1 cup cornstarch – Helps create a crispy coating, ensuring the sauce clings beautifully to the chicken.
2 large eggs – Acts as a binding agent, allowing the cornstarch to adhere properly.
1/4 cup vegetable oil – Used for lightly frying the chicken, adding richness and crunch.

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

1/2 cup granulated sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness, balancing the acidity of the vinegar.
1/4 cup ketchup – Enhances color and provides a subtle tomato tang.
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar – Gives the sauce its signature tanginess and depth.
2 tbsp. soy sauce – Introduces umami and a salty contrast to the sweetness.
1 tsp. garlic powder – Adds a subtle garlicky warmth to the sauce.
1/2 tsp. sea salt – Enhances all the flavors while seasoning the dish to perfection.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Coat the Chicken

Season the chicken breast pieces with salt and pepper.
Place the cornstarch in a large ziplock bag, add the chicken, and shake well until all pieces are evenly coated.

3. Dredge and Sear the Chicken

In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Dip each cornstarch-coated chicken piece into the egg, then immediately place it into the hot skillet.
Sear until the chicken turns golden brown, but do not cook through (it will finish baking in the oven).
Transfer the seared chicken pieces to the prepared baking dish.

4. Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and sea salt.
Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken in the baking dish.

5. Bake to Perfection

Bake for 1 hour, stirring the chicken every 30 minutes to ensure even coating and caramelization.
The sauce will thicken and glaze the chicken beautifully by the end of baking.

Why This Recipe is a Winner

Healthier than takeout – No deep-frying, but still crispy and flavorful.
Incredibly easy – Simple pantry staples come together for a restaurant-quality meal.
Crowd-pleaser – The perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.

Pro Tips for the Best Sweet and Sour Chicken

Use cornstarch for crispiness – This gives the chicken a light, crispy coating that soaks up the sauce perfectly. Don’t overcook in the skillet – A quick sear is all you need before baking to avoid dry chicken. Stir halfway through baking – This ensures the sauce evenly coats every bite, creating a rich, caramelized texture. Let it rest – Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to let the sauce thicken and intensify in flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your baked sweet and sour chicken with: Steamed Jasmine Rice – Absorbs the flavorful sauce perfectly. Stir-Fried Vegetables – A side of bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas complements the dish beautifully. Pineapple Chunks – Adds extra sweetness and a tropical twist.

Final Thoughts

This baked sweet and sour chicken is the ultimate combination of crispy, tender chicken bathed in a rich, glossy sauce that’s equal parts tangy, sweet, and savory. With minimal prep and a hands-off baking method, it’s an easy, family-friendly meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavor every time. Give it a try, and you’ll never crave takeout again!

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