Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delicious and healthier alternative to the classic deep-fried version. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • Cooking spray

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

For Garnish:

  • Sliced green onions
  • Sesame seeds
  • Pineapple chunks (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat a baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Prepare Chicken:

  • Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
  • Place the cornstarch in a shallow dish. Dip each piece of chicken in the cornstarch, shaking off excess.

3. Dip in Beaten Eggs:

  • Dip the cornstarch-coated chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated.

4. Bake Chicken:

  • Place the coated chicken pieces in the prepared baking dish. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

5. Prepare Sweet and Sour Sauce:

  • In a saucepan, combine sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and ginger powder.
  • Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

6. Thicken Sauce:

  • Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Gradually add the slurry to the sauce, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.

7. Toss Chicken in Sauce:

  • Once the chicken is baked, pour the sweet and sour sauce over the cooked chicken in the baking dish. Toss the chicken to coat evenly.

8. Bake Again:

  • Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and the chicken is glazed.

9. Garnish and Serve:

  • Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and optional pineapple chunks.

10. Serve:
– Serve the baked sweet and sour chicken over rice or with your favorite side dishes.

This baked version provides a delicious sweet and sour flavor without the need for deep-frying. Enjoy this healthier twist on a classic dish!

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