Easy Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe for Everyone

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

April 9, 2025

Updated:

April 9, 2025

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There’s something inexplicably delightful about the tangy sweetness of Sweet and Sour Chicken (halal). Picture this: tender chunks of chicken bathed in a glossy sauce that dances between flavors—sweet pineapple mingling with zesty bell peppers for a taste explosion. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a siren call, beckoning everyone to join the feast.

Every time I whip up this dish, it takes me back to family gatherings filled with laughter. My Aunt Fariha used to serve her famous Sweet and Sour Chicken at every holiday dinner. The moment the first bite hits your tongue, you can’t help but smile—it’s pure happiness on a plate.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy Sweet and Sour Chicken (halal) recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions
Bursting with vibrant colors, it’s visually stunning on any dinner table
Enjoy a delightful flavor profile combining sweetness with a hint of acidity
Customize the ingredients based on what you have in your pantry for versatile meal options!

I remember one time when we had a huge family get-together; the dish vanished faster than you can say “second helping.”

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts for tender pieces; feel free to adjust according to your crowd size.
Fresh Bell Peppers: Choose vibrant colors like red or green for crunch and visual appeal.
Pineapple Chunks: Canned or fresh works well; they add that delightful sweetness we crave.
Onion: A medium onion brings aromatic depth; slice it thinly for even cooking.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances flavor; use 3-4 cloves depending on your love for garlic.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching salt intake.
Ketchup: Adds sweetness and color; yes, it sounds odd but trust me!
Vinegar (Rice or Apple Cider): Adds tanginess; choose rice vinegar for a milder flavor.
Sugar: Just a pinch! It balances the vinegar’s acidity perfectly.
Cooking Oil: Use vegetable oil or sesame oil for frying; this adds richness to the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare your kitchen as we dive into this culinary adventure!

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onions finely while slicing bell peppers into strips. Gather all your sauce ingredients together for ease.

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped garlic and diced onions until they turn translucent—this should take about 2-3 minutes.

Cook the Chicken: Toss in the chicken pieces into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper while cooking until golden brown—around 5-7 minutes should do it!

Add Vegetables: Once the chicken is cooked through, add bell peppers and pineapple chunks. Stir gently until vegetables are tender yet still crisp—about another 3-4 minutes.

Create the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together soy sauce, ketchup, vinegar, and sugar until smooth. Pour this magical concoction over your stir-fry goodness in the skillet.

Simmer Together: Let everything simmer for an additional 5 minutes on low heat. This allows flavors to meld beautifully while thickening slightly—the aroma will drive you wild.

Now you’ve crafted an amazing Sweet and Sour Chicken (halal) from scratch! Serve it hot over steamed rice or noodles for an unforgettable meal that will leave everyone craving more. Enjoy!

You Must Know

Sweet and Sour Chicken (halal) is a dish that delights with its tangy sauce and tender chicken
Perfect for family dinners, it’s colorful and aromatic, making every bite a celebration
This recipe also allows you to customize flavors based on your taste preferences

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in juices, then prepare the sauce while it cooks for efficiency.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out bell peppers for pineapples or add your favorite veggies for a personal twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat on low heat to maintain quality.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a crispy texture, coat the chicken in cornstarch before frying
Don’t skip marinating; it adds depth of flavor
Always taste your sauce before serving and adjust as needed for sweetness or acidity

Creating my first version of Sweet and Sour Chicken was a mess! My friends loved it, but I burned half of it while trying to impress them.

FAQs

FAQ

What makes Sweet and Sour Chicken halal?

Using halal-certified chicken ensures that this dish meets dietary requirements for Muslim consumers.

Can I make Sweet and Sour Chicken in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.

What can I substitute for pineapple in this recipe?

Mango or peach chunks work well as alternatives to pineapple in Sweet and Sour Chicken.

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