Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Easy Sweet and Sour Chicken, a delectable dish that transforms any weeknight dinner into a delightful experience. This recipe is designed for busy home cooks, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just 15 minutes—no takeout needed! Featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a tangy and sweet homemade sauce, this dish is not only quick but also incredibly satisfying. Whether served over rice or nestled in lettuce wraps, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll find yourself making this family-friendly favorite again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces; boneless skinless chicken thighs may be substituted)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar (packed)
- 3 cloves garlic (pressed or finely minced)
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch (for chicken)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 3 to 4 tablespoons olive oil (plus more if necessary)
- 2 green onions (sliced into thin rounds, optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, cold water, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken in a single layer and cook until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
- Pour the sauce over the chicken, stirring well to coat. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 307
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 653mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 73mg