Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Dredge chicken in the flour mixture, dip in beaten eggs, and dredge again, pressing to coat. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 2: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, rice vinegar, ketchup, and soy sauce over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened. Add bell peppers and pineapple; cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Add fried chicken and stir to coat.
Step 3: Prepare the Fried Rice
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Push onion and garlic aside, add beaten eggs, and scramble until cooked. Mix with onion and garlic. Add peas and carrots; cook for 2-3 minutes. Stir in rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, breaking up clumps. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and pepper; stir to combine and heat through.
Step 4: Serve
Serve the Sweet and Sour Chicken over the fried rice. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds (optional).
Cook Notes
- Oil Temperature: For crispy chicken, ensure oil is hot enough (around 350°F).
- Day-Old Rice: Day-old rice is drier and prevents clumping in fried rice.
- Cornstarch Slurry: This thickens the sauce; stir frequently to avoid lumps.
Variations
Spicy Sweet and Sour Chicken
Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Vegetable Sweet and Sour
Omit chicken and add more vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, and mushrooms.
Shrimp Fried Rice
Substitute shrimp for chicken. Cook shrimp until pink, then add to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Egg rolls or spring rolls.
- Garnishes: Green onions, sesame seeds, or sesame oil.
- Fresh Fruit: Fresh pineapple or orange slices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and fried rice up to 3 days in advance. Refrigerate separately in airtight containers and reheat before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
Can I Use an Air Fryer for the Chicken?
Yes! Preheat to 400°F, spray chicken with oil, and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Enjoy your homemade Sweet and Sour Chicken with Fried Rice! Let us know how it turns out in the comments below!
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