Name: Sweet and Sour Baked Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces); 2 eggs; 2 tbsp oil; ¼ cup cornstarch; ½ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp salt; ⅛ tsp black pepper; 1 cup sugar; ½ cup apple cider vinegar; 4 tbsp ketchup; 2 tbsp soy sauce

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Looking for a homemade sweet and sour chicken recipe that tastes like takeout but is healthier and easier to make?

This oven-baked sweet and sour chicken is crispy, flavorful, and perfect for serving over rice or with vegetables. With a rich, tangy sauce that clings to every bite, it's a guaranteed family favorite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Crispy without deep frying: Chicken is lightly pan-seared, then baked in the sauce for perfect texture.
Balanced sweet and tangy flavor: The sauce hits just the right notes of sweet, sour, and savory.
Family-friendly and versatile: Serve with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables like broccoli.
Easy to prep: With simple ingredients and clear steps, anyone can make this recipe at home.

Ingredients You'll Need

Chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Eggs
2 tablespoon oil
Cornstarch
Garlic powder
Salt
Black pepper
Brown sugar
Apple cider vinegar
Ketchup
Soy sauce

Pro Tip: Use fresh, high-quality chicken for the best texture, and don't skip the cornstarch coating because it's the key to achieving that signature crispiness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
In a small bowl or saucepan, combine sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Set aside.
Prep the chicken coating:
- In one bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a second bowl, beat the eggs.
Cook the chicken in batches:
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Coat chicken pieces first in the cornstarch mixture, then in the eggs.
- Cook in the skillet 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
Use a 9x13-inch pan (or similar). Arrange the chicken in a single layer and pour the prepared sauce over it.
Place in the oven and bake until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked, turning the chicken every 25 minutes. Depending on your oven, the sauce may take 15-45 minutes to thicken. Remove as soon as it becomes glossy and thick.
This baked sweet and sour chicken is perfect with steamed broccoli and rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Sweet and Sour Chicken

Crispier chicken: Broil for the last 2-3 minutes if you want extra golden edges.
Adjust sweetness: Add more or less sugar depending on your taste.
Vegan option: Use firm tofu in place of chicken and follow the same baking steps.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain crispiness.

Variations to Try

Pineapple Sweet and Sour Chicken: Add fresh pineapple chunks to the sauce for a tropical twist.
Spicy Sweet and Sour Chicken: Add ½ teaspoon chili flakes or a splash of sriracha for heat.
Vegetable-Loaded: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a colorful, nutrient-packed dish.

Why Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken Beats Takeout

Baking your chicken at home lets you control the ingredients which mean less oil, less sodium, and no artificial additives. Plus, this recipe is budget-friendly and can be made in under 45 minutes.