Oven-Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe – A Delicious and Easy Homemade Dish

If you're craving a flavorful and healthy alternative to takeout, this Oven-Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is perfect for you! Made with crispy baked chicken and a homemade tangy sweet and sour sauce, this dish will become a family favorite. Plus, baking instead of frying makes it a lighter option without sacrificing taste.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Healthier Alternative – No deep frying needed!
Crispy & Juicy – The chicken remains crispy outside and tender inside.
Homemade Sauce – Fresh, preservative-free, and full of flavor.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients with step-by-step guidance.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 cup cornstarch
2 large eggs (beaten)
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup ketchup
1/2 cup white vinegar
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1/4 cup pineapple juice (optional for extra sweetness)
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
Coat each piece in cornstarch, ensuring an even layer.
Dip the coated chicken pieces into the beaten eggs.
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and lightly brown the chicken on all sides (about 3-4 minutes). The chicken should not be fully cooked at this stage.
Transfer the browned chicken to the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce

In a saucepan, combine sugar, ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Add pineapple juice if using for extra flavor.
Stir in the cornstarch-water mixture and cook for another minute until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Pour the sweet and sour sauce evenly over the chicken.
Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring the chicken every 15 minutes to coat evenly with the sauce.
Remove from oven when the sauce is thick and sticky, and the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your oven-baked sweet and sour chicken over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor!

Tips for the Best Sweet and Sour Chicken

Cornstarch Coating: Helps create a crispy exterior even without frying.
Stir During Baking: This ensures every piece is coated with the flavorful sauce.
Add Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, and pineapple chunks make great additions.
Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and work just as well in this recipe.

2. Is there a gluten-free alternative?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free cornstarch to make this dish completely gluten-free.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and coat the chicken in advance, but for the best texture, bake just before serving.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a splash of Sriracha to the sauce for extra heat.

5. Can I freeze sweet and sour chicken?

Yes! Freeze the cooked chicken with sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Final Thoughts

This Oven-Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delicious, healthier take on a classic takeout dish. With a crispy coating and flavorful homemade sauce, it's sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!