Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
- Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, season the 1 ½ pounds of chicken pieces with 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon onion powder. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- Prepare the Breading: Set up three shallow dishes:
- In the first dish, add 1 cup of all-purpose flour.
- In the second dish, place the 2 beaten eggs.
- In the third dish, add 2 cups of panko breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Coat the Chicken: Take each piece of seasoned chicken and dip it into the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Drizzle with Oil: Once all the chicken pieces are breaded, drizzle 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over the top.
- Bake: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Flip the chicken halfway through the baking time for even crispiness.
Step 5: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup sugar, 1 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/2 cup ketchup, and 1 tablespoon soy sauce until smooth.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to create a slurry. Add this to the sweet and sour sauce mixture and whisk until well combined.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Coat the Chicken: Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and pour the sweet and sour sauce over the chicken, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly.
- Return to Oven: Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and caramelize slightly.
Step 7: Serve
- Plate and Garnish: Serve the baked sweet and sour chicken over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
- Enjoy: Dive into this delicious dish that combines the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess!
Tips for the Best Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh chicken and quality ingredients for the sauce.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add a bit more sugar. For a tangier flavor, increase the vinegar slightly.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, then bake the chicken and add the sauce when ready to serve.
- Add Veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, pineapple chunks, or broccoli during the last 10 minutes of baking for added color and nutrition.
Conclusion
This Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a delightful and healthier alternative to the traditional fried version, combining the crispy texture of baked chicken with a flavorful, homemade sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy! Enjoy making this dish and watch it become a favorite in your home.
This recipe provides detailed steps and tips, making it easy for your visitors to follow along and enjoy the cooking process. Enjoy!