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Here’s a full, detailed article about Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken, with step-by-step instructions:

Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken: Crispy, Flavorful, and Healthier

Sweet and sour chicken is one of the most loved dishes in Chinese-American cuisine. Typically, it’s fried until golden and then tossed in a glossy sauce that balances tanginess with sweetness. But did you know you can enjoy the same delicious flavors in a healthier way? Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken is the perfect alternative. By baking instead of deep-frying, you still achieve a crispy coating without excessive oil, while the oven helps lock in flavor.

Let’s walk through the recipe step by step.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized chunks)
1 cup cornstarch
3 large eggs (beaten)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

1 cup sugar (or honey for a lighter version)
½ cup distilled white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for extra tang)
¼ cup ketchup
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon ground ginger

Optional Add-Ins:

1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Season the chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper.
Place cornstarch in one bowl and beaten eggs in another.
Dredge each chicken piece in cornstarch, then dip it into the beaten egg. This double coating is the secret to a crisp baked crust.