Hunan Style Sweet and Sour Chicken
This vibrant, flavorful dish is a beautiful representation of the bold and spicy Hunan cuisine, blending tender pieces of chicken with colorful bell peppers, tangy pineapple, and a luscious, savory-sweet sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasions, the Hunan Style Sweet and Sour Chicken will undoubtedly please anyone who loves a little heat with their sweetness.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts, boneless, cut into 1-inch | 2 pieces |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil or Sesame Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Black pepper powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum), chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Yellow Bell Pepper (Capsicum), chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Corn flour (cornstarch) | 4 teaspoons |
| Water | 4 teaspoons |
| Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned) | 3/4 cup |
| Pineapple juice | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | As needed |
| Brown Sugar (Demerara Sugar) | 3 tablespoons |
| Vinegar | 3 tablespoons |
| Chicken stock | 1/4 cup |
| Sesame seeds (Til seeds), for garnish | 1 teaspoon |
| Iceberg lettuce leaves, for garnish | 2 leaves |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fats | 10g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 24g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
Preparation Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
15 minutes
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken: Begin by heating the oil (Extra Virgin Olive Oil or Sesame Oil) in a non-stick wok over medium heat. While the oil is heating, season the boneless chicken breasts with salt and black pepper powder.
-
Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the wok. Sauté the chicken until it turns a golden brown and becomes crisp on the edges. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and transfer it to a plate.
-
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same wok, add the chopped red and yellow bell peppers. Sauté them for about a minute until they begin to soften slightly but still retain some crunch.
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Prepare the Sauce: Add in the pineapple chunks, pineapple juice, brown sugar, vinegar, and chicken stock to the wok. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the sauce to come together with the tangy pineapple and savory ingredients.
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Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the corn flour (cornstarch) with water, mixing them to create a smooth, lump-free paste. Add this paste into the boiling sauce. Stir constantly, and within a few minutes, you will notice the sauce beginning to thicken to a glossy consistency.
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Combine Chicken and Sauce: Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, return the browned chicken pieces to the pan. Mix the chicken thoroughly with the sauce, ensuring that each piece is coated in the savory-sweet glaze. Cook for another 4 to 5 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
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Serve: Turn off the heat. To serve, line a serving tray or plate with fresh iceberg lettuce leaves. Carefully place the sweet and sour chicken on top of the lettuce. Garnish with sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve this delicious Hunan Style Sweet and Sour Chicken with a side of Hakka Noodles with Egg or steamed rice for a comforting, well-rounded dinner.
Pro Tip
For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a dash of chili flakes or chopped fresh chili to the sauce while cooking for an added level of spice typical in Hunan cuisine. The sweetness from the pineapple and brown sugar beautifully balances the heat, making this dish both flavorful and satisfying.
This Hunan Style Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe offers a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and sweet, making it a standout dish for any dinner gathering or casual weeknight meal. The vibrant colors and rich flavors are sure to impress family and guests alike!
