Name: Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1½ pounds boneless chicken breast or thighs (cut into 1-inch pieces); ½ cup cornstarch; 2 eggs (beaten); Salt & pepper (to season); Oil for frying; 1 cup canned pineapple juice; ½ cup sugar; ¼ cup ketchup; ¼ cup rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon pepper flakes (optional); 1 red bell pepper (chopped); 1 green bell pepper (chopped); 1 small onion (chopped)

Jump to Recipe· 4.7 from 13 reviews

There’s something universally irresistible about Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken — each crunchy bite bursting with juicy tenderness beneath a candy-glossed tangy sauce. This dish brings together golden, crackling chicken morsels tossed with vibrant peppers, onions, and a mouthwatering homemade sweet and sour sauce. It’s the perfect harmony of savory, sweet, and tart, and it turns a weeknight dinner into an event. Whether you’re serving it up for family or impressing your friends, Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken promises a plateful of flavor and a dose of kitchen confidence.

Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed by how a handful of simple pantry staples can transform into restaurant-worthy Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken. Each ingredient plays a special role, from delivering an ultra-crisp crust to rounding out the sweet, tangy, and savory flavors this dish is loved for.

Chicken breast or thighs: Thighs offer juiciness, while breasts bring a tender bite—use whichever you prefer for the base of your chicken pieces.
Cornstarch: This is your secret to that unforgettable crispy coating; don’t skip it!
Eggs: Dipping the chicken in beaten egg helps everything stick while lending a light, golden crunch.
Salt & pepper: Simple seasoning builds a solid flavor foundation for your chicken.
Oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point—like canola or peanut—for perfectly fried results.
Red bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and a subtle sweetness.
Green bell pepper: Brings a little earthy bitterness, balancing the sweet elements.
Onion: Adds an aromatic sharpness and pleasant crunch.
Canned pineapple juice: The backbone of the signature sweet and sour sauce; don’t substitute here!
Sugar: Brings the sweet contrast that makes the sauce so addictive.
Ketchup: Adds color, tang, and a little bit of body to the sauce.
Rice vinegar: Creates the bright, punchy sour note you crave in every bite.
Soy sauce: Provides depth and umami richness.
Cornstarch slurry: Mixed with water, it thickens your sauce to luscious perfection.
Garlic powder: Boosts the savory backbone of the sauce.
Pepper flakes (optional): For a hint of heat, sprinkle these in to taste.

How to Make Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken pieces dry, then sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper. Seasoning the meat from the get-go means every bite of your Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken will be bursting with flavor all the way through, not just on the surface. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—it’s your first layer of flavor!

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Set up a simple dredging station: first, roll the seasoned chicken pieces in cornstarch, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Next, dip them into your beaten eggs. The cornstarch provides that essential crunch, while the egg helps the coating puff up and hold onto the chicken during frying.

Step 3: Fry Until Crispy and Golden

Heat about an inch of oil in a deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Once shimmering hot, add the chicken in batches—avoid crowding the pan, so each piece gets gloriously crisp. Fry until golden brown on all sides, then transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This is where the magic happens: every piece emerges shatteringly crisp, ready for its sweet and sour finale.

Step 4: Whisk Up the Sweet and Sour Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Bring everything to a simmer, stirring to dissolve the sugar completely. Then, pour in your cornstarch slurry and keep stirring until the sauce bubbles and thickens into a shiny, glossy glaze. If you crave a hint of heat, this is the perfect moment to toss in some pepper flakes for a little kick.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Veggies & Chicken

Grab a clean pan or quickly wipe out your frying pan. Add a splash of oil and toss in the chopped peppers, onions, and—if you want—a few chunks of pineapple for extra tropical sweetness. Stir-fry just until crisp-tender; you want them bright, fresh, and still snappy. Return your crispy chicken pieces to the pan, nestling them among the veggies.

Step 6: Sauce and Serve

Pour the hot sweet and sour sauce right over the chicken and vegetables. Now comes the most satisfying part: toss everything together so each nugget and veggie gleams with a sticky, tangy sheen. Serve your masterpiece piping hot, straight from the pan, over fluffy white rice or a bed of fragrant fried rice for the full takeout-at-home experience.

How to Serve Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a handful of sliced green onions adds a fresh, aromatic finish and a little crunch. Fresh cilantro leaves or finely chopped red chili can also bring a vibrant pop of color and a touch of heat, making your Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken look irresistible and taste extra special.

Side Dishes

For a weeknight feast, serve Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken with fluffy steamed rice, classic fried rice, or even delicate jasmine rice. Steamed broccoli, snap peas, or baby bok choy make crisp, refreshing partners. Egg rolls or simple cucumber salads with a light vinaigrette also complement the bright, tangy flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try piling Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken into lettuce cups for a fun appetizer, or serve over rice in individual bowls for a casual, dinner-party touch. For a family-style platter, arrange the chicken atop a bed of rice, surround with the colorful veggies, and offer extra sauce on the side. Your guests will swoon over the restaurant-worthy flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken (lucky you!), transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It will keep beautifully for up to three days, though the coating may soften slightly as it sits.

Freezing

Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken freezes surprisingly well: arrange cooled pieces on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. For best results, store the chicken separate from the sauce, which can also be frozen in a sealed container. Use within one month for the freshest texture and flavor.

Reheating

To recapture that irresistible crispness, reheat the chicken in a hot oven or air fryer—avoid microwaving if you can, as it softens the crust. Warm the sauce separately, then toss to coat just before serving. In a pinch, you can re-crisp the chicken under a broiler for a minute or two; just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are super juicy and flavorful, making them fantastic for Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken. If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, chicken breasts work just as well.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, just use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce, and double-check that your ketchup and rice vinegar are also gluten-free. The cornstarch coating is already gluten-free, so you’re all set.

Can I make Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken in advance?

You can prep all the elements beforehand—fry the chicken and store, make the sauce, chop the veggies—then assemble and toss everything together just before serving. This makes it perfect for entertaining or speedy weeknight dinners.

What oil should I use for frying?

Choose a neutral, high-heat oil like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil. These ensure even, crisp frying without adding unwanted flavors to your Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken.

Why isn’t my chicken crispy after tossing with the sauce?

Sauce can soften even the crispiest coating if it sits too long, so toss everything together right before serving. If you’re making ahead, keep the chicken and sauce separate until dinnertime for maximum crunch.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never made Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken from scratch, you’re in for a truly delightful surprise. This recipe is easier than you think, totally customizable, and guaranteed to wow anyone lucky enough to pull up a chair at your table. Give it a try—one bite, and you’ll want to make it again and again!