Sweet and sour chicken is a classic Chinese dish that is loved by people of all ages. The crispy chicken is coated in a sweet and sour sauce that is both tangy and savory. The addition of pineapple adds a tropical twist to the dish, making it even more delicious.
This recipe for sweet and sour chicken with pineapple is easy to follow and produces a delicious and flavorful dish that is sure to please everyone at your table. The chicken is first coated in a batter that makes it crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The sauce is then made with a blend of pineapple juice, vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce. The chicken and sauce are then cooked together until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thickened.
This dish is best served with rice or noodles. It can also be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course. Whether you are looking for a delicious and easy-to-make Chinese dish or a tropical twist on a classic, this recipe for sweet and sour chicken with pineapple is sure to hit the spot.
This blog post will provide you with a step-by-step recipe for making sweet and sour chicken with pineapple. The recipe is easy to follow and the results are sure to please. So gather your ingredients and get ready to make this classic Chinese dish.
Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 white onion, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup chopped pineapple
- Sweet and sour sauce, store-bought or homemade (see recipe below)
- Green onions, sliced into thin rounds for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
- Add the bell peppers, onion, and pineapple to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Add the sweet and sour sauce to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic, minced
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, cornstarch, ginger, and garlic.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
What to Serve with Sweet Sour Chicken?
There are many different side dishes that you can serve with sweet and sour chicken. Here are a few of my favorites:
1. Fried rice:
This is a classic side dish that goes well with sweet and sour chicken. You can make your own fried rice, or you can buy it pre-made.
2. Scallion pancakes:
These crispy pancakes are a great way to add a bit of texture to your meal. You can find scallion pancakes at most Asian grocery stores.
3. Potstickers:
These dumplings are another great option for a side dish with sweet and sour chicken. They are filled with a savory filling, and they are cooked in a flavorful broth.
4. Vegetable stir-fry:
This is a healthy and delicious side dish that is perfect for a balanced meal. You can stir-fry any type of vegetables that you like, but some good options include broccoli, carrots, and peppers.
5. Noodles:
Noodles are a versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of different dishes. For sweet and sour chicken, I recommend using lo mein noodles or chow mein noodles.
No matter what side dish you choose, make sure to serve it with some steamed white rice. This will help to balance out the sweetness of the sweet and sour chicken.
How Long Does Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple Last in the Fridge?
If you have leftovers, you can store sweet and sour chicken with pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. Make sure to cool it down before refrigerating and reheat it thoroughly before consuming.
Nutritional Facts
The nutritional facts for Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple will vary depending on the recipe you use, but here is a general overview:
- Calories: 563-623 calories per serving
- Fat: 26-33 grams of fat per serving
- Carbohydrates: 62-68 grams of carbohydrates per serving
- Protein: 59-64 grams of protein per serving
- Sugar: 10-12 grams of sugar per serving
- Sodium: 600-700 milligrams of sodium per serving
Is Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple Healthy?
Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple is not a particularly healthy dish. It is high in calories, fat, and sugar. However, it can be made healthier by making a few simple changes.
Health Benefits of Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple
Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple can offer some health benefits, but it is important to note that the dish is also high in calories, fat, and sugar. Here are some of the potential health benefits of Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple:
- Protein: Chicken is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
- Vitamin C: Pineapple is a good source of vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that can help boost the immune system.
- Manganese: Pineapple is also a good source of manganese, which is a mineral that helps with bone health, blood sugar regulation, and wound healing.
- Fiber: The vegetables in Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple, such as bell peppers and pineapple, can provide some fiber, which is important for digestive health.
Conclusion
Sweet and sour chicken with pineapple is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. The crispy chicken is coated in a sweet and sour sauce that is made with a variety of fruits and vegetables. This dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Enjoy.