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Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken: A Flavorful Favourite

Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delightful dish that marries bold flavours with a satisfying crunch, making it a popular choice for family dinners and gatherings alike. This recipe offers a healthier twist on the classic takeout favourite by baking rather than frying the chicken. The result? Tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a vibrant, tangy sauce that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

The Allure of Sweet and Sour

Sweet and sour sauce is a harmonious blend of sugary sweetness and sharp acidity, typically incorporating ingredients like pineapple, vinegar, and soy sauce. It originated in Chinese cuisine but has been embraced globally, especially in British and American kitchens. The charm of this dish lies in its ability to balance these contrasting flavours, resulting in a palate-pleasing experience that is both refreshing and comforting.

Ingredients

To prepare Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 500g of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

• 1 cup of pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1/2 cup of bell peppers (any colour), diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup of brown sugar
• 1/3 cup of white vinegar
• 1/4 cup of ketchup
• 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water (for thickening)

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First, preheat your oven to 200°C (or 180°C for fan ovens). While the oven heats, cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Drizzle with olive oil and mix well.

Step 2: Bake the Chicken

Spread the coated chicken pieces on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced out to allow even cooking. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, flipping the pieces halfway through.

Step 3: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce

While the chicken is baking, prepare the sweet and sour sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and onion over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, white vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

To thicken the sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry, allowing it to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened and become glossy.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and carefully mix it with the sweet and sour sauce in a large bowl, ensuring each piece is well coated. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds or sliced spring onions, alongside fluffy rice or crispy noodles for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is not only simple to prepare, but it also brings a hint of exotic flair to your dining table. Bursting with flavour and offered in a healthier baked format, this dish invites families to enjoy a wholesome take on an international classic. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this delightful recipe is sure to become a firm favourite in your culinary repertoire. So, don your apron and get ready to indulge in this scrumptious blend of sweet and tangy goodness!