Sweet Sour Chicken
Sweet Sour Chicken offers a delightful combination of tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, sweet pineapple, and cherries coated in a honey-ginger glaze. Baked to perfection, this dish balances sweet and tangy flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with a tropical twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium dish, combine chicken breasts, chopped bell pepper, sliced onion, crushed pineapple with juice, and maraschino cherries.
- Pour honey and sprinkle ginger powder over the mixture.
- Put a lid on the dish to cover.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- Serve the sweet sour chicken over cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the honey and ginger mixture for a few hours before baking. You can substitute the bell pepper with a mix of colorful peppers for added visual appeal. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes to the mix. Alternatively, use fresh ginger instead of ginger powder for a more vibrant taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sweet sour chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice or steamed jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce. It pairs beautifully with steamed broccoli or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For an Asian-inspired dinner, consider serving it alongside a dish from our Chinese recipes collection.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Sour Chicken contains roughly 472 calories, with 24g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron.
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 other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork or tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose; for pork, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Tofu should be cooked until golden and heated through.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of maraschino cherries?
If you prefer not to use maraschino cherries, you can substitute them with diced fresh pineapple or even mandarin oranges for a citrusy twist. These alternatives will still provide a sweet contrast to the savory chicken while complementing the dish’s flavor profile.
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).