Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a large baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare and Fry the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken in cornstarch, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
Dip the coated chicken into the beaten eggs.
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden on the outside (they don’t need to be fully cooked).
Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic powder, and salt until smooth.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Pour the sweet and sour sauce evenly over the chicken in the baking dish.
Bake, uncovered, for 50–60 minutes, stirring every 15–20 minutes to ensure the chicken is well-coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the baked sweet and sour chicken over steamed white rice or noodles. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or pineapple chunks for added flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Healthier Than Takeout: Baked, not deep-fried, but just as crispy and flavorful.
Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples make this dish easy to whip up anytime.
Customizable: Add bell peppers, onions, or pineapple chunks for extra texture and flavor.
Family Favorite: The perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors appeals to all ages.
Pro Tips for Success
Don’t Skip the Stirring: Stirring the chicken while it bakes ensures even coating with the sauce.
Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh, high-quality chicken makes a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the sugar slightly and add a splash of orange juice for a zesty twist.
This Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy chicken with a luscious, tangy sauce. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough for entertaining. Enjoy! 🍍🍗✨😍