Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful twist on a classic favorite? This Baked Sweet Sour Chicken recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breast with vibrant bell peppers and sweet pineapple, all enveloped in a rich, tangy sauce that will transport you straight to the heart of Chinese cuisine. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a meal that’s as delicious as it is simple to make!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup rice, cooked
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken breast, pineapple chunks, and chopped bell pepper. Toss them together to ensure the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweet and sour sauce and soy sauce until well combined. Pour this sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is thoroughly coated.
- Transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking. This will help the chicken cook evenly and become tender.
- Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil from the baking dish and stir the mixture gently to redistribute the ingredients. This will help the chicken and vegetables cook evenly.
- Return the baking dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the cooked rice according to package instructions. Fluff the rice with a fork once it’s done.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the baked sweet and sour chicken over a bed of cooked rice, spooning extra sauce from the baking dish over the top for added flavor.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired, and enjoy your delicious homemade baked sweet and sour chicken!
Tips
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, marinate the cubed chicken in the sweet and sour sauce for 30 minutes before baking. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots to the mix for added color and nutrition.
- Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve with a Twist: For a unique touch, try serving the dish with coconut rice or quinoa instead of regular rice for a flavor boost.
- Leftover Magic: This dish makes excellent leftovers! Reheat it in the oven or microwave, and it can also be used as a filling for wraps or sandwiches.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving to elevate the dish’s presentation and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 75mg
