Easy Sweet and Sour Chicken

Name: Easy Sweet and Sour Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped; 1/2 cup onion, chopped; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup vinegar; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Savor the delicious balance of sweet and tangy in this Easy Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe. Perfectly tender chicken pieces are coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce, making it a delightful dish for family dinners or quick weeknight meals. Serve it over fluffy rice or with crunchy vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will love!

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2025-12-13T10:26:23.220Z

This Easy Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is a wonderful addition to your weeknight meals, balancing flavors that everyone in the family will love.

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Sweet and sour dishes are beloved across various cuisines, and this Easy Sweet and Sour Chicken is no exception. The harmony of sweet sugar and tangy vinegar creates a flavor profile that dances on your palate. Each bite offers a delightful contrast, making it not just a meal but an experience worth savoring.

In this recipe, the glossy sauce clings beautifully to the tender chicken, coating it in a flavor-rich glaze. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or seeking a quick weeknight solution, this dish satisfies cravings while delivering a gourmet feel in the comfort of your home.

A Family Favorite

Finding meals that everyone in the family will enjoy can be a challenge. However, Sweet and Sour Chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Children tend to love the sweetness, while adults appreciate the nuanced flavors and freshness of the vegetables. Serve it with rice or as part of a larger spread, and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Not only is this dish delicious, but it's also visually appealing. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and onions make for a feast for the eyes as well, which is often half the battle when encouraging kids to eat healthy.

Customization and Variations

One of the best aspects of this Easy Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is its flexibility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or even pineapple for an extra tropical flair. Feel free to adjust the level of sweetness according to your taste by varying the amount of sugar.

For a protein twist, consider substituting the chicken with shrimp or tofu, making it suitable for diverse dietary preferences. Experimenting with flavors can lead to the creation of your own family favorite version!

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
1/2 cup onion, chopped

For the Sauce

1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup vinegar
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and set aside until ready to cook.

Steps

Prepare the Chicken

Coat the diced chicken in cornstarch and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the coated chicken and cook until golden brown.

Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix together sugar, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, and cornstarch slurry.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked chicken to the pan along with chopped bell pepper and onion. Pour the sauce over everything and stir until thickened.

Serve hot over rice or with vegetables for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your Sweet and Sour Chicken experience, serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice or jasmine rice. The rice absorbs the sauce beautifully, providing a neutral base that balances the bold flavors of the dish. If you're looking to keep it lighter, consider pairing it with steamed vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas, which add both nutrition and crunch.

For an elevated touch, garnish the finished dish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions. This not only adds an appealing visual element but also a hint of freshness and crunch that complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, you're in luck! Sweet and Sour Chicken stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra sauce to keep the chicken moist. This makes for a quick and satisfying lunch the next day.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned. This meal is perfect for meal prep or for those busy weeknights!

Nutritional Information

Sweet and Sour Chicken can be a wholesome dinner option loaded with protein and vegetables. While it's typically indulgent due to its sweet sauce, this recipe allows you to control added sugars and unhealthy fats by adjusting ingredients. Lean chicken breast offers a good source of protein, making it a filling option for family meals.

To make it more balanced, consider serving it with a side salad or using brown rice for added fiber. This way, you not only enjoy the delicious flavors but also create a more nutritious dining experience that contributes positively to your health.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately and combine them when ready to serve.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, it can be frozen once cooked. Reheat thoroughly before serving.