Irresistible Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe in 30 Minutes

Name: Sweet and Sour Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1 medium onion, chopped; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 3 tbsp brown sugar; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp cooking oil

Recipe By:

Howdy

Posted:

September 22, 2025

Updated:

September 22, 2025

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Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delightful explosion of flavors that dances on your taste buds like a sugar-high toddler at a birthday party. Imagine succulent chicken pieces swimming in a tangy sauce, with vibrant veggies adding crunch and color. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making your mouth water faster than you can say “takeout.”

This dish brings back memories of family dinners where laughter filled the room, and the clinking of chopsticks was the soundtrack to our feasting adventures. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a festive gathering, Sweet and Sour Chicken is sure to elevate any occasion. Get ready for an amazing flavor experience!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe will have you looking like a culinary superstar without breaking a sweat.
The sweet and tangy flavors meld perfectly together, offering a delicious balance that everyone will enjoy.
It’s visually stunning with its bright colors, making it perfect for impressing guests.
Plus, this dish is highly versatile—serve it over rice or in lettuce wraps for delightful variations!

Ingredients for Sweet and Sour Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts for ample servings; feel free to adjust based on your crew’s appetite.
Fresh Bell Peppers: Choose red or yellow for sweetness and color; they add both nutrition and visual appeal.
Pineapple Chunks: Opt for fresh or canned; they bring that signature sweetness to balance the savory elements.
Onion: A medium onion works wonders here; it adds depth of flavor when sautéed until golden.

For the Sauce:

Soy Sauce: Low-sodium is best to keep things balanced without overwhelming saltiness.
Brown Sugar: This sweetener enhances the sauce’s caramelization; who doesn’t love a little sweetness?
Rice Vinegar: Its tangy flavor complements the sweetness beautifully; don’t skip this essential ingredient!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Sweet and Sour Chicken

How to Make Sweet and Sour Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Chop your bell peppers, onion, and pineapple into chunks. Gather all your ingredients so you can work efficiently—this isn’t an episode of MasterChef.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper. Sauté until they are golden brown and cooked through—about five to seven minutes should do it.

Step 3: Add the Veggies

Toss in your chopped onions and bell peppers into the skillet once the chicken is cooked. Stir-fry for about three minutes until they are tender-crisp; we want them vibrant, not mushy!

Step 4: Mix Up The Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and any other seasoning you’d like (maybe some garlic?). Pour this tasty concoction over your chicken and veggies in the skillet.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Add in those luscious pineapple chunks now! Stir everything together until coated with that glorious sauce; let it simmer for about five more minutes so all flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your Sweet and Sour Chicken to plates over fluffy rice or alongside crispy lettuce wraps if you’re feeling fancy. Drizzle with extra sauce if desired—a little extra never hurt anyone!

Now you’re ready to indulge in a plateful of joy! Enjoy every bite while reminiscing about those happy family dinners that made you fall in love with food in the first place.

You Must Know

This delightful sweet and sour chicken recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds, but it also makes cooking a joyous occasion.
The vibrant colors and aromas create a feast for the eyes and palate.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with ease.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavor. Next, sear it until golden. While that happens, whip up your sauce in a separate pan, then toss everything together for a quick finish. Voila! Dinner is served.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp if you’re feeling adventurous. Add veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch. You can even adjust the sweetness and tartness to suit your palate. The options are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed, to keep it saucy and delicious.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor impact.
Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing; this ensures even cooking and browning.
Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

I remember the first time I made sweet and sour chicken for my family. Their faces lit up as they took that first bite, and my mom even asked for the recipe! Talk about a confidence booster!

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Sweet and Sour Chicken?

To make a delicious Sweet and Sour Chicken, you will need boneless chicken breasts, bell peppers, pineapple chunks, and onion. For the sauce, gather sugar, vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Some recipes might also call for cornstarch to thicken the sauce. You can customize the vegetables based on your preference. Fresh produce enhances the dish’s flavor and texture. Ensure all ingredients are prepped before starting to cook for a smooth cooking experience.

How long does it take to cook Sweet and Sour Chicken?

Cooking Sweet and Sour Chicken typically takes about 30-40 minutes. This includes prepping the ingredients and cooking time. First, marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes to absorb flavors. Then sauté the chicken until golden brown before adding veggies and sauce. Allow everything to simmer for about 10-15 minutes so that the flavors meld together. The overall time may vary depending on your cooking method, but it remains a quick meal option.

Can I make Sweet and Sour Chicken in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Sweet and Sour Chicken in advance! Cook the dish as usual, then allow it to cool completely before refrigerating it in an airtight container. It remains fresh for up to three days in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a pan over medium heat until hot or use the microwave for convenience. The flavors often deepen after sitting, making it even more delicious.

Is Sweet and Sour Chicken healthy?

Sweet and Sour Chicken can be made healthier with a few adjustments. Opt for lean chicken breast and limit added sugar in the sauce. Incorporating more vegetables boosts nutritional value while providing fiber. You can also bake or air-fry instead of deep-frying to cut down on oil usage. By making these changes, you can enjoy this classic dish without feeling guilty about your health choices.

Conclusion for Sweet and Sour Chicken:

In conclusion, Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delightful dish that strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tangy flavors. With simple ingredients like chicken, bell peppers, pineapple, and a savory sauce, it’s easy to prepare at home. Whether served over rice or noodles, this recipe is quick enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests. By following our guidelines on preparation and cooking methods, you will create a meal everyone will love while enjoying some health benefits too!

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