Easy Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir Fry Recipe 

A perfect balance of flavors, quick to make, and packed with nutritious ingredients? That’s exactly what Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir Fry delivers! This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy families, health-conscious eaters, and anyone with a love for vibrant Asian cuisine. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this dish is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. 

Today, I’m going to walk you through step-by-step instructions to make this classic stir-fry, along with tips, variations, and serving suggestions. So, grab your wok, and let’s get cooking!

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Ingredients

To make this mouthwatering Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir Fry, you’ll need the following fresh and simple ingredients:

• Chicken breast or thighs (1 lb) – Boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized pieces. 
• Red bell pepper (1) – Seeded and sliced into strips. 
• Green bell pepper (1) – Seeded and sliced into strips. 
• Pineapple chunks (1 cup) – Fresh or canned, drained. 
• Carrot (1 medium) – Thinly sliced into matchsticks. 
• Onion (1 small) – Diced. 
• Garlic (2 cloves) – Minced. 
• Ginger (1 tsp) – Freshly grated. 
• Soy sauce (3 tbsp) – Regular or low-sodium. 
• Rice vinegar (2 tbsp) – Adds tangy sweetness. 
• Ketchup (3 tbsp) – A key sweet and sour ingredient. 
• Brown sugar (2 tbsp) – For the perfect sweetness. 
• Cornstarch (1 tbsp + 2 tsp) – To thicken the sauce and for coating the chicken. 
• Water (1/4 cup) – To create that glossy sauce. 
• Sesame oil (1 tbsp) – For stir-frying. 
• Salt and pepper – To taste. 
• Optional garnish – Sesame seeds and green onions. 

Substitution Suggestions 

• Make it gluten-free by using tamari or gluten-free soy sauce. 
• Want a lower sugar option? Substitute the ketchup and brown sugar with 2 tablespoons of honey. 
• For a vegetarian or vegan version, swap the chicken with tofu or seitan. 

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken 

Toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This helps achieve that lightly crispy texture once stir-fried. 

2. Heat Things Up 

Heat sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside. 

3. Stir-Fry the Veggies 

Add onions, garlic, and ginger to the pan and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Toss in the carrots, bell peppers, and pineapple chunks, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften but still have a slight crunch. 

4. Make the Sauce 

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, water, and the remaining 2 teaspoons of cornstarch. Once combined, pour the mixture into the pan with the vegetables. 

5. Combine and Finish 

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing everything together so it’s coated evenly in the glossy, sweet-and-sour sauce. Simmer for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. 

6. Plate and Enjoy 

Turn off the heat and serve your Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir Fry over steamed rice or noodles. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions for a restaurant-quality finish. 

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Tips and Tricks

• Texture is key: To keep vegetables crisp, avoid overcooking them during the stir-fry process. Cook them just until they retain a bit of crunch—it adds a nice textural contrast. 
• Spotlight on freshness: Use fresh ginger and garlic for maximum flavor. Pre-packaged versions don’t have the same zing. 
• Wok wonders: Woks distribute heat more evenly, making them an ideal pan for stir-fry recipes. But if you don’t have one, a large skillet works too! 

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Health Benefits

This Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir Fry isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutritional benefits, too! 

• Chicken provides lean protein to keep you feeling full and energized. 
• Vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and onion are rich in vitamins A and C, supporting healthy skin and vision. 
• Pineapple is a great source of bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion. 
• The sauce, while indulgent, uses simple and wholesome ingredients. By making your own at home, you skip the preservatives and excess sodium found in store-bought versions. 

Plus, it’s easily customizable for low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diets, making it a healthy choice for everyone at the table. 

Variations

• For spice lovers: Add a diced red chili or a dash of chili flakes for a kick of heat. 
• Go vegan: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh. You can follow the same cooking instructions—just make sure to press the tofu beforehand to remove excess moisture. 
• Swap the protein: This recipe works wonderfully with shrimp or even pork if you want to mix things up. 
• Extra tangy: Add a splash of orange juice to the sauce for a citrusy twist. 

Serving and Pairing

Pair this vibrant stir-fry with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa for a balanced and satisfying meal. If you prefer noodles, a simple soy-sauce-seasoned lo mein works beautifully. 

To complete your meal, consider serving it with a side of spring rolls, a light cucumber salad, or even a warming bowl of miso soup. For drinks, a glass of iced jasmine tea or a sparkling yuzu soda provides a refreshing complement. 

Try It Today!

Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir Fry is an irresistible blend of flavors that brings restaurant-quality Asian cuisine to your kitchen. Not only does it satisfy your taste buds, but it also comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. 

If you’ve enjoyed this recipe, share your creations with us in the comments or on social media. Nothing makes us happier than seeing your culinary masterpieces! Get cooking, and prepare to stun your taste buds! 

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