There’s something about sweet and sour chicken that instantly transports me back to cozy weeknights with my family. The sizzle of the chicken frying in the pan fills the kitchen with a promise of something special. As the sauce bubbles gently, its glossy sheen coats the pieces of chicken, bell peppers, and pineapple, creating a vibrant mosaic of colors and aromas. The tangy sweetness cuts through perfectly, teasing my taste buds with every bite. I remember how my kids’ faces would light up, their fingers reaching eagerly for just one more piece, while the soft crunch of peppers and juicy pineapple added unexpected layers of texture.

One evening, after a long day, this dish felt like a warm hug on a plate—comforting yet exciting. It’s not just a meal; it’s a reminder of simple joys shared around the table. The balance of flavors feels just right, neither too sweet nor too sour, and that crispy coating on the chicken? Pure magic. These moments make me want to cook it again and again, inviting others to savor that same experience.

Crispy chicken pieces perfectly coated in a tangy, sweet sauce.
Bright, fresh bell peppers and juicy pineapple chunks add a refreshing crunch.
Quick to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights.
Comfort food that’s both nostalgic and vibrant.
Pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

If you’re worried about the sauce being too sweet, don’t be—it strikes a lovely balance, and you can easily adjust it to your taste. Plus, the colorful veggies bring freshness that keeps each bite lively.

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Print Recipe

A classic Chinese-American dish featuring crispy battered chicken pieces tossed in a tangy and sweet homemade sweet and sour sauce, served with bell peppers and pineapple chunks.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/2 cup cornstarch
2 large eggs, beaten
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 small onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup pineapple chunks, drained if canned
1/4 cup ketchup
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

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Instructions

In a medium bowl, place the chicken pieces and coat them evenly with cornstarch.
Dip the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces into the beaten eggs, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, frying until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.
In the same skillet, add the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, rice vinegar, granulated sugar, soy sauce, and water to make the sweet and sour sauce.
Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the vegetables and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
Add the fried chicken pieces and pineapple chunks to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat evenly with the sauce.
Cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
Serve hot over steamed white rice or noodles.

FAQ

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, by using cornstarch for coating and ensuring your soy sauce is gluten-free, you can enjoy this recipe without gluten.

Is it okay to prep ingredients ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cutting the chicken and vegetables in advance can save time, making the cooking process quicker.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the chicken crispy and sauce fresh.

Can I swap pineapple for another fruit?
Pineapple’s sweetness and tanginess complement the sauce perfectly, but mango or peaches can be interesting alternatives.

Give this sweet and sour chicken a try and see how it transforms your dinner routine. It’s more than a recipe—it’s a way to bring a little joy and color into the everyday.