Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is one of those unforgettable dishes that makes you feel like you’re enjoying restaurant-quality takeout in the comfort of your own home. Tender, golden-brown chicken bites are coated in a glossy, perfectly balanced sauce that is both tangy and sweet — a combination that instantly wakes up your taste buds. Unlike deep-fried versions, this oven-baked recipe creates less mess while still delivering that irresistible texture everyone loves. This dish is a weeknight hero, picky-eater approved, and tastes even better the next day.

Whether you’re new to homemade Asian-inspired meals or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is straightforward, family-friendly, and made with simple pantry ingredients. The sticky sweet sauce, crisped chicken, and satisfying flavor make this dish a beloved favorite among readers and home cooks around the world.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and optimal sauce coverage.
1 cup cornstarch – Helps form a light coating on the chicken, creating a crisp exterior when seared.
2 large eggs – Used for dipping the chicken to bind the cornstarch and form a light crust.
1/4 cup vegetable oil – Used to sear the chicken until golden before baking, creating a flavorful coating.
1/2 cup granulated sugar – Provides the sweetness needed for the classic sweet and sour flavor profile.
1/4 cup ketchup – Adds tangy tomato richness and vibrant color.
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar – Gives that essential sour punch and balances the sweetness perfectly.
2 tablespoons soy sauce – Brings in umami and a savory depth to the sauce.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds mild warmth and background flavor without overpowering.
1/2 teaspoon sea salt – Enhances all the flavors in the marinade and chicken.
Optional: Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning the chicken before coating.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless.

2. Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry using paper towels, then season lightly with salt and pepper for flavor from the inside out.

3. Coat with Cornstarch

Add the chicken pieces to a large resealable plastic bag filled with cornstarch. Seal and shake until every piece is evenly coated. This step creates that signature crispy crust.

4. Dip in Egg

Crack the eggs into a shallow bowl and whisk well. Dip each cornstarch-coated chicken piece into the egg mixture to form a light batter-like coating.

5. Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Fry the chicken in small batches for about 1–2 minutes per side until lightly golden (do not fully cook through yet). Transfer to your prepared baking dish.

6. Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and sea salt until smooth. This homemade sauce is the star of the show, delivering that bold sweet and sour flavor.

7. Bake and Glaze

Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken in the baking dish. Bake for 1 hour, tossing or flipping the chicken every 15–20 minutes to ensure the sauce thickens and clings to each piece.

8. Serve

Serve hot over steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or even fried rice for a full meal. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Why This Recipe is Loved

People adore this recipe because it’s quick to assemble, incredibly flavorful, and offers the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory. It’s a healthier alternative to restaurant-style fried chicken since it’s baked rather than deep-fried, yet still has a crispy texture. It’s also versatile and can be made in advance.

Pro Tips for the Best Sweet and Sour Chicken

Cut chicken evenly: Uniform pieces ensure consistent cooking.
Do not overcrowd the skillet: Fry in batches so each piece gets a golden sear.
Toss frequently while baking: This helps the sauce caramelize and prevents burning.
Customize the sauce: Add pineapple chunks, bell peppers, or chili flakes for a fun twist.
Use parchment paper: Keeps cleanup simple and prevents the sauce from sticking to the pan.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with:

Steamed White Rice or Jasmine Rice – Absorbs all that flavorful sauce.
Stir-Fried Vegetables – Broccoli, bell peppers, or sugar snap peas add color and crunch.
Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls – For a fun takeout-style dinner at home.
Fresh Green Salad – For a lighter side to balance the richness.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This recipe reheats wonderfully and is ideal for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F or in the microwave until hot throughout. You can also freeze the cooked chicken with sauce for up to 2 months — simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well and provide even more flavor due to their higher fat content.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar to 1/3 cup if you prefer a less sweet version. Keep in mind that sweetness is what balances the vinegar, so the sauce may be more tangy.

Do I have to fry the chicken first?

Technically, you can skip frying and bake directly, but frying creates that signature texture that keeps the coating crispy under the sauce.

Conclusion

Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is a dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. From the crispy chicken to the tangy homemade sauce, every bite is a mouthwatering combination of texture and taste. This recipe proves you don’t need to order takeout to enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal — you can make it fresh, hot, and satisfying right in your own kitchen. With simple ingredients, easy cleanup, and unbeatable flavor, this is a recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again.

If you’re looking for a dish that’s simple, delicious, and guaranteed to impress your family, this is it. Give it a try tonight and watch it become a new favorite!