Sweet And Sour Chicken Or Ribs
Sweet and tangy, this dish features a flavorful sauce made with catsup, brown sugar, lemon juice, and mustard, perfect for chicken, ribs, or pork chops. Baked to perfection, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and zest, making it a versatile favorite for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together all the ingredients to prepare the sauce.
- Place chicken, ribs, or pork chops in a shallow pan.
- Pour the sauce over the meat.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a tangier sauce, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or using a spicy mustard instead of regular mustard. If you're short on time, you can substitute the brown sugar with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness. Additionally, for a thicker sauce, simmer it on the stove for a few minutes before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Sweet and Sour Chicken or Ribs over steamed rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Angel Food Cake With Pineapple for dessert, providing a lovely contrast to the savory main dish. You can also offer a simple side salad to add freshness to the plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken or ribs in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour Chicken Or Ribs contains roughly 142 calories, with 0g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1899mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken and ribs are popular choices, this sauce works well with pork chops, tofu for a vegan option, or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat or protein you choose.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider using skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs or ribs. You can also reduce the amount of brown sugar or substitute it with a natural sweetener like maple syrup. Additionally, using olive oil instead of salad oil can enhance the nutrition profile.
What can I serve with Sweet and Sour Chicken or Ribs?
This dish pairs well with various sides. Try serving it with steamed broccoli or a mixed green salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also complement it with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome meal. For a fun twist, serve it with Sweet Mustard Relish on the side.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).