Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken — A Takeout Classic Made Better at Home
Introduction
Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a beloved dish known for its irresistible balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. This homemade version gives you all the deliciousness of your favorite takeout meal—crisp chicken, glossy sauce, and tender bites—while using simple ingredients and a baked method that feels lighter without sacrificing taste. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or weeknight comfort meals.
Ingredients & Quantity
For the Chicken
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup cornstarch
2 large eggs, beaten
¼ cup vegetable oil (for light pan-frying before baking)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce
¾ cup sugar
½ cup apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
4 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon ground ginger (optional but recommended)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
3. Add the cornstarch to a bowl and coat the chicken pieces thoroughly.
4. Dip coated pieces into beaten eggs.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Lightly brown the chicken pieces on each side (they do NOT need to be cooked through).
7. Transfer the browned chicken to a baking dish.
2. Make the Sauce
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and ginger.
2. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken.
3. Bake
1. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes so the chicken becomes evenly coated and caramelized.
2. Remove from the oven when the sauce is thickened and glossy.
4. Serve
Enjoy over steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Sweet and Sour Chicken is rooted in Chinese-American cuisine, a style that emerged when Chinese immigrants adapted their dishes to American tastes. The “sweet and sour” flavor profile has existed in Cantonese cooking for centuries, traditionally using vinegar and preserved fruits.
In Western kitchens, it has become a comfort-food staple—bright, bold, and family-friendly. This baked version captures that nostalgic flavor with a lighter, home-style touch.
Description
This dish features golden, lightly crisp chicken chunks coated in a luscious sweet-and-tangy sauce. As it bakes, the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze that clings to every bite. Each forkful offers soft, juicy chicken balanced by bright flavors and a satisfying caramelized finish.
Optional Additions
Enhance the dish with any of the following:
Vegetables
Chunked bell peppers
Pineapple pieces
Sliced onions
Snap peas
Carrots
Flavor Boosters
Chili flakes for heat
Fresh ginger
Sesame seeds
Green onions
Plating Ideas
Serve with jasmine rice
Pair with roasted vegetables
Top with toasted sesame seeds
Tips for Success
Don’t skip browning the chicken — this helps it stay crisp during baking.
Stir every 15 minutes — it ensures even coating and prevents burning.
Use apple cider vinegar for a more mellow tang.
Cut chicken uniformly so it cooks evenly.
If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar to ½ cup.
For extra crispiness, cook chicken slightly longer in the skillet before baking.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, 6 servings)
Calories: ~420
Protein: 30g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 450mg
Values will vary depending on added ingredients and portion size.
Conclusion
Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken brings the magic of classic takeout straight to your kitchen in a wholesome, satisfying way. The sauce is rich, tangy, and sweet without being overpowering, and the baking method creates beautifully glazed chicken pieces every time. Whether you’re serving picky eaters, guests, or just yourself, this recipe never disappoints.
Recommendation
Pair this dish with homemade fried rice, steamed broccoli, or a fresh Asian-style cucumber salad to balance the richness of the sauce. It also reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This recipe proves you can indulge in bold, comforting flavors while still making mindful cooking choices. Baking instead of deep-frying keeps the chicken lighter, and using fresh ingredients adds nutritional value without sacrificing taste. Enjoy each flavorful bite knowing you’ve created a satisfying dish that feels indulgent yet balanced.