sweet and sour chicken and rice recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
sweet and sour chicken and rice recipe
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The Best sweet and sour chicken and rice recipe

Sweet and sour chicken and rice is a classic dish that has been a staple in many Chinese restaurants for decades. I love this recipe because it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

The combination of sweet and sour flavors, along with the crunch of the vegetables, makes for a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. My family loves this dish, and it’s a regular in our household.

One of the reasons I love this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a main course, or use it as a side dish. It’s also a great way to get your kids to eat more vegetables, as the sauce is sweet enough to mask any bitterness from the veggies.

In addition to being delicious, this recipe is also relatively healthy, especially when you compare it to other Chinese takeout options. The key to making this recipe successful is in the home cooking technique – you need to cook the chicken and rice together in order to get the right balance of flavors.

Sweet and Sour Chicken and Rice

Sweet and Sour Chicken and Rice

4.8 from 1383 votes

This sweet and sour chicken and rice dish is a delightful blend of tender chicken, tangy sauce, and fluffy rice. It’s a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

500g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp cornstarch

For the Sauce

1/2 cup pineapple juice
1/4 cup ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp cornstarch

For the Rice

2 cups cooked rice

For the Vegetables

1 bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper and cornstarch.
2Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
5In the same skillet, add a bit of oil if needed.
6Add bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
7Cook until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
8In a mixing bowl, combine pineapple juice, ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, and vinegar.
9Mix well until sugar is dissolved.
10Stir in 1 tbsp of cornstarch.
11Pour the sauce into the skillet with the vegetables and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
12Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
13Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce and vegetables.
14Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and well coated in the sauce.
15Serve the sweet and sour chicken over cooked rice.
16Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Mixing bowl
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 1.5g❤️Cholesterol: 73mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 15g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: You can adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the sauce by adding more or less brown sugar or vinegar. You can also add other vegetables like pineapple or broccoli to the dish.

I hope you enjoy this sweet and sour chicken and rice recipe as much as my family does. This dish is always a good idea for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a large family gathering. It’s easy to make, delicious, and can be customized to suit your family’s tastes.

I also like to make extra and freeze it for later. Just reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through, and it’s like having a homemade meal ready to go. It’s a great option for busy families or for when you want a quick and easy meal.

Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or some garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal. This dish is a family favorite and a great way to introduce kids to new flavors and textures. It’s a dish that brings people together, and it’s always a hit with kids and adults alike.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet and Sour Chicken and Rice

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

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Thighs are often more flavorful and juicy, but they may take a bit longer to cook. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make the sweet and sour sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sweet and sour sauce ahead of time. In fact, the flavors will have more time to meld together if you make it a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

3. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the batter is crispy.

4. What can I serve with sweet and sour chicken and rice?

Sweet and sour chicken and rice is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or some garlic bread to round out the meal. You can also add some chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish.

5. Can I freeze leftover sweet and sour chicken and rice?

Yes, you can freeze leftover sweet and sour chicken and rice. Let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through.

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