Prepare the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
In a small saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, minced garlic, water, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch.
Simmer the mixture over low heat until it thickens, whisking frequently. Once thickened, cover the sauce and set it aside.
Coat the Chicken:
Place the chicken pieces in a large Ziploc bag and add the cornstarch. Shake the bag until the chicken is evenly coated.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat 2–3 tablespoons of vegetable or canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the coated chicken to the skillet, shaking off any excess cornstarch. Cook the chicken until it is golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
Sauté the diced onion for 1-2 minutes until softened, then add the diced bell peppers. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Combine and Serve:
Reduce the heat to low and return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables.
Pour the prepared sweet and sour sauce into the skillet, then add the fresh pineapple chunks, crushed red pepper, and salt to taste. Gently stir to combine and heat until warmed through.
Serve the Sweet and Sour Chicken over cooked rice or Chinese noodles, garnishing with green onions or toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Conclusion:
With its perfect blend of textures and flavors, this Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. From the crispy chicken to the tender bell peppers and the burst of sweetness from the pineapple, every bite is a culinary delight. Whether enjoyed as a cozy family dinner or served to impress guests, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression. So gather your ingredients and prepare to embark on a flavorful journey with this irresistible recipe!
