Sweet and Sour Chicken – Tangy, Light, and Better Than Takeout

Craving takeout but want something lighter and homemade? This Sweet and Sour Chicken delivers all the bold, zesty flavor you love without the heaviness or excess oil. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a perfectly balanced sauce of sweet pineapple and tangy vinegar, served with colorful peppers and onions for a vibrant dish that satisfies both taste and nutrition goals. It’s an easy, guilt-friendly meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold Sweet & Tangy Flavor – A balanced sauce that’s bright, fresh, and crave-worthy.
Tender Chicken – Lightly sautéed or baked for a crispy texture without deep frying.
Colorful Veggies – Bell peppers and onions add crunch and nutrition.
Weeknight-Friendly – Ready in under 30 minutes for fast and flavorful dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp olive oil (for cooking)

For the sauce:

• ½ cup pineapple juice (from canned pineapple in juice)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp low-sugar ketchup
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar or sugar substitute
• 1 tsp cornstarch (for thickening)

Vegetables:

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• ½ small onion, chopped
• ½ cup pineapple chunks (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken
Toss chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp cornstarch. In a nonstick skillet over medium heat, add 1 tsp olive oil and cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add peppers and onions. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.

3. Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, and 1 tsp cornstarch.

4. Combine and Simmer
Add the chicken back to the skillet along with the sauce and pineapple chunks. Stir well and simmer for 3–5 minutes until sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.

5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot over steamed rice or cauliflower rice. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 280
Protein: 28g
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Sugar: 13g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan – Sear chicken in batches for best texture.
• Use Fresh or Canned Pineapple – Just make sure it’s packed in juice, not syrup.
• Customize the Veggies – Add broccoli, snap peas, or even zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Spice It Up – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish hits all the notes of classic sweet and sour chicken—tender meat, vibrant veggies, and a glossy, flavorful sauce—without the deep-frying or sugar overload. It’s a healthy twist on a comfort food favorite, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels like a treat.

Sweet and Sour Chicken has never been this fresh, fast, and light. With bright flavor and wholesome ingredients, this easy homemade version beats takeout any night of the week.