Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy 15-Minute Sweet and Sour Chicken is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s quick, delicious, and packed with the perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce and can be served with rice or noodles for a complete meal that tastes better than takeout.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breast cornstarch vegetable oil bell pepper (red or green) pineapple chunks garlic ketchup soy sauce rice vinegar brown sugar water

directions

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and coat them lightly with cornstarch.

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, add diced bell pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.

Add minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.

In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and water to make the sweet and sour sauce.

Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer.

Add the pineapple chunks and cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir to coat everything evenly.

Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 3-4 servings.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesTotal time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add chopped onion or snap peas for extra crunch and flavor.
Use chicken thighs instead of breast for a juicier texture.
Replace pineapple with mandarin oranges for a twist.
Make it spicy by adding chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat in the microwave or a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.For best texture, avoid freezing as the sauce may separate.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking.

What can I serve with sweet and sour chicken?

Steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles are great options.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and follow the same steps.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Can I bake the chicken instead?

Yes, bake coated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes before adding to the sauce.

What oil is best for stir-frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola oil.

Is this dish very sweet?

It has a balanced flavor, but you can adjust the sugar level to your taste.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

Add a slurry of cornstarch and water if you prefer a thicker consistency.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your pan is large enough to avoid overcrowding.

Conclusion

Easy 15-Minute Sweet and Sour Chicken is your go-to meal for when time is tight but flavor is a must. With its vibrant sauce, tender chicken, and quick prep, this dish is a satisfying alternative to takeout and a surefire family favorite.