Crispy Sweet and Sour Chicken

This dish features golden, crispy chicken pieces coated in a glossy sweet-and-sour sauce. Crunchy outside, tender inside, with a classic balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.

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Ingredients

Chicken

• 500 g (1.1 lb) boneless chicken breast or thigh, cut into bite-size pieces

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon white pepper

• 1 egg

• ½ cup cornstarch

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• Oil for deep frying

Vegetables (optional but common)

• ½ cup carrot, thinly sliced or julienned

• ¼ cup onion, thinly sliced

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Sweet and Sour Sauce

• 4 tablespoons ketchup

• 3 tablespoons sugar

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or white vinegar)

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for depth)

• ½ cup water

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place chicken in a bowl.

2. Season with salt and white pepper.

3. Add the egg and mix well.

4. Add cornstarch and flour, stirring until the chicken is evenly coated with a thick batter.

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Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat oil to 170–175°C (340–350°F).

2. Fry chicken in batches for 4–5 minutes until light golden.

3. Remove and rest for 2 minutes.

4. Fry a second time for 1–2 minutes until deep golden and extra crispy.

5. Drain on paper towels.

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Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a bowl, mix ketchup, sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, and cornstarch.

2. Stir until smooth.

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Step 4: Cook the Sauce

1. Heat a pan over medium heat.

2. Add the sauce mixture and stir continuously.

3. Cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy (about 2–3 minutes).

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Step 5: Combine

1. Add carrots and onions to the sauce (if using).

2. Toss in the fried chicken.

3. Stir gently until all pieces are evenly coated.

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Step 6: Serve

• Garnish with fresh cilantro.

• Serve immediately with:

  • Steamed rice

  • Fried rice

  • Noodles

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Tips

• Double frying keeps the chicken crispy even after adding sauce.

• For extra tang, add a little pineapple juice.

• Best eaten hot and fresh.