Crispy Oven-Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken: A Takeout Favorite Made Healthier at Home

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Craving the tangy, sweet, and savory flavors of sweet and sour chicken without the guilt of deep frying? This oven-baked version delivers all the deliciousness of your favorite takeout dish with a healthier twist. Perfectly crispy chicken pieces are coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce, making it a family-friendly meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.AllrecipesGimme DeliciousPinterest

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • ⅓ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup distilled white vinegar
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to tasteDash of Sanity+2Facebook+2Pinterest+2Recipes Need+1Reddit+1Pinterest

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Set your oven to 325°F (163°C).Reddit
  2. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
    • Place the cornstarch in a shallow dish and the beaten eggs in another.
    • Dredge each chicken piece in cornstarch, then dip into the egg, ensuring it’s well-coated.The Recipe Critic+1Reddit+1
  3. Brown the Chicken:
    • In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
    • Add the coated chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
    • Transfer the browned chicken to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  4. Prepare the Sauce:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.Reddit
  5. Bake the Chicken:
    • Pour the sauce over the chicken in the baking dish, ensuring all pieces are coated.
    • Bake, uncovered, for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to evenly coat the chicken with the sauce.The Recipe Critic+1Google Cloud Storage+1
  6. Serve:
    • Once cooked, serve the sweet and sour chicken over steamed rice or alongside your favorite vegetables.Reddit

Tips and Variations:

  • Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or pork for different variations.
  • Vegetable Add-ins: Enhance the dish by adding bell peppers, pineapple chunks, or onions during the last 15 minutes of baking.
  • Spice Level: For a spicier kick, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce mixture.
  • Healthier Options: Reduce sugar quantity or use a sugar substitute to make the dish more diabetic-friendly.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: Approximately 500 kcal
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 30g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

This oven-baked sweet and sour chicken offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish for weeknight dinners or special occasions. By baking instead of deep-frying, you enjoy a lighter version without compromising on taste. Give this recipe a try, and it might just become a new favorite in your household!

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