Sweet and sour chicken

Sweet and sour chicken features tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and juicy pineapple tossed in a tangy sauce. This dish is straightforward, combining cooked chicken with sautéed vegetables and a rich, flavorful sauce, making it a family favorite.

09 Feb 2026
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 cup white rice
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tsp black pepper
2.67 tbsp water
1 egg white
2 chicken breasts
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1/2 cup green pepper
1/2 cup red pepper
1 onion
1 cup pineapple
3/4 cup pineapple juice
4 tbsp brown sugar
4.50 tbsp vinegar
6 tbsp chicken soup

Sweet and sour chicken is a popular dish that perfectly balances tangy and sweet flavors. This recipe combines tender chicken pieces with vibrant bell peppers, juicy pineapple, and a savory sauce, creating a delightful meal that the whole family will love.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Rice:
- Rinse the white rice under cold running water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rice with 2 cups of water.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan.
- Simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

2. Prepare Chicken:
- In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and black pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together the water and egg white until frothy.
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Coat the chicken pieces in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly covered.
- Dip the coated chicken pieces in the egg white mixture.

3. Cook Chicken:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning frequently until golden brown on all sides and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

4. Prepare Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary.
- Add the chopped green and red peppers, and onion.
- Sauté the vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.

5. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the pineapple chunks to the skillet with the vegetables and cook for another 2 minutes.

6. Prepare Sauce:
- In a bowl, mix together the pineapple juice, brown sugar, vinegar, and chicken soup until well combined.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the vegetables and pineapple.
- Let it cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 5-7 minutes.

7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce and vegetables.
- Let it cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

8. Serve:
- Serve the sweet and sour chicken over the cooked white rice.
- Enjoy your meal!

This sweet and sour chicken recipe is an easy-to-follow dish that delivers a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this tasty classic is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your meal!

Sweet and sour chicken FAQ:

What is the optimal cooking time for the chicken?

Cook the chicken pieces for about 5-7 minutes in a skillet over medium-high heat, turning frequently until they are golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to guarantee doneness.

Can I make Sweet and Sour Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Sweet and Sour Chicken ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

What can I use instead of chicken breast?

You can substitute chicken thighs for breast meat, as they have a similar cooking time and offer great flavor. Alternatively, you could use tofu for a vegetarian option, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How should I store leftover Sweet and Sour Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What pan size is best for making this recipe?

A large skillet or wok is ideal for making Sweet and Sour Chicken. A pan with a diameter of at least 12 inches works well, giving you enough space to cook the chicken and vegetables evenly.

Tips:

- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a bit of soy sauce and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.

- Use fresh pineapples instead of canned ones for a more natural and robust flavor.

- Cut the vegetables and chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

- You can adjust the sweetness by decreasing or increasing the amount of brown sugar according to your preference.

- Serve the sweet and sour chicken with steaming white rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 440kcal
Protein 33g
Carbohydrates 70g
Fiber 3.07g
Sugar 22g
Fat 11g

Sweet and sour chicken