Are you craving a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner? Look no further! This Kikkoman sweet and sour sauce chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It's surprisingly easy to make, bursting with delicious sweet and sour notes, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. This recipe delivers a fantastic homemade taste without hours of cooking. Get ready for a culinary adventure that's both simple and supremely satisfying!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup Kikkoman soy sauce (or your preferred brand)
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup bell pepper (any color), thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- Optional: Sesame seeds for garnish
- Optional: Cooked rice for serving
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. This simple step helps create a lovely crispy texture.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, whisk together the Kikkoman soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, ketchup, cornstarch, and water until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps for a perfectly smooth sauce.
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Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens (about 1-2 minutes). This thickening process is crucial for a delightful coating on the chicken.
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Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the pineapple chunks, bell pepper, and red onion. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Sweet and Sour Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more sugar. For a tangier sauce, add more vinegar.
- Fresh ingredients are best: Using fresh pineapple and bell peppers will enhance the flavor of your dish. The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the taste!
Variations:
- Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha will add a kick to your sweet and sour sauce.
- Include other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or snow peas.
- Use different protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, pork, or tofu for a variation.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
This Kikkoman sweet and sour chicken recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes that are both healthy and delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is a surefire winner, combining the convenience of easy recipes with the satisfying taste of homemade cooking. It’s a dish that truly showcases the best recipes, offering a delightful culinary experience that everyone can appreciate. Enjoy!