Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 large eggs, beaten
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup vegetable oil (for coating)
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
1/4 cup sugar
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional)
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
Instructions:
Prep the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In a third shallow bowl, place the cornstarch.
Dip each piece of chicken first into the egg, then dredge it in the flour mixture, and finally coat it lightly with cornstarch. Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet.
Lightly drizzle the chicken with vegetable oil or spray with cooking spray to help it crisp up while baking.
Bake the Chicken:
Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
While the chicken is baking, whisk together the ketchup, rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ginger in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
Mix the cornstarch and water together to form a slurry, then add it to the sauce. Stir well and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Coat the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a large bowl.
Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the crispy chicken and toss to coat evenly.
Serve:
Serve the baked sweet and sour chicken over steamed rice or with vegetables, and enjoy this flavorful, crispy dish!