Sweet and Sour Chicken
This Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, making it a family favorite. The juicy chunks of chicken are slow-cooked with vibrant peppers, pineapple, and a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s a healthier, homemade alternative to takeout, easy to prepare with simple ingredients. Serve it with egg-fried rice or noodles for a complete, satisfying meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, it’s freezer-friendly for ultimate convenience!
Ingredients:
Slow Cook Ingredients:
700 g Chicken breasts, cut into large chunks
1 Onion, peeled and cut into large chunks
3 tbsp Tomato puree
3 tbsp Light soy sauce
4 cloves Garlic, minced
2 inches Ginger, grated
4 tbsp Honey
4 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
To Add Later:
3 tbsp Cornflour (cornstarch)
2 tbsp Dark brown sugar
3 Peppers, cut into big chunks
435 g Tinned pineapple (in juice), chunks separated from juice
Instructions:
1. Slow Cook Base: Add all slow cook ingredients plus the juice from the pineapple can (reserve the pineapple chunks) into your slow cooker. Cook on high for 3 hours or low for 5-6 hours.
2. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornflour with liquid from the slow cooker to create a smooth paste (slurry). Pour the slurry back into the slow cooker.
3. Add Veggies and Pineapple: Stir in dark brown sugar, peppers, and pineapple chunks.
Option 1: Cook in the slow cooker on high for an additional 30 minutes.
Option 2: Transfer to a stovetop pan (if your slow cooker pan is compatible) and cook on medium heat for 15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the peppers soften slightly.
Notes:
Peppers: Add at the end for a crunchy texture or cook earlier for softer peppers.
Chicken Breasts: You can substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result.
Soy Sauce: Use dark soy if needed, but it will alter the color and saltiness of the sauce.
Tinned Pineapple: Pineapple rings work too; just chop them into chunks before adding.
Optional Additions:
Sprinkle with chili flakes for heat or add a squeeze of lime juice for extra zing.
Freezing and Reheating:
Cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost before reheating on the stovetop or microwave.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this sweet and sour chicken with fluffy egg-fried rice, steamed noodles, or crispy prawn crackers for a deliciously satisfying meal.
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