I’m thrilled to share a delightful recipe that embodies the essence of family comfort and togetherness. Today, I want to introduce you to my latest culinary creation: Skillet Sweet and Sour Chicken.
Cooking has always been a cherished tradition in my family, and each recipe I share holds a special place in my heart. Just like you, I appreciate the ease of preparing meals that not only taste fantastic but also bring a sense of nostalgia to the table. As a busy woman juggling various roles, I understand the importance of recipes that are not only delicious but also simple to make.
This recipe for Skillet Sweet and Sour Chicken encapsulates everything I adore about home cooking. The aroma that fills the kitchen as the chicken sizzles in the skillet takes me back to childhood memories of bustling kitchens and the laughter of loved ones. This dish is more than just a recipe; it’s a reminder of the bonds we create and the stories we share around the dinner table.
Speaking of stories, let me share a heartwarming family tale that perfectly aligns with the essence of this recipe. A few summers ago, my family embarked on a spontaneous road trip. We found ourselves in a quaint countryside inn, surrounded by rolling hills and clear blue skies. On our first evening there, the innkeeper surprised us with a homemade dinner that featured Skillet Sweet and Sour Chicken.
As we savored every bite, the innkeeper shared that the recipe had been passed down through generations in her family. The dish represented not only the flavors of her heritage but also the joy of gathering together. The sweet and tangy sauce mirrored the blend of personalities within our own family, each member contributing their unique essence to create a harmonious whole.
Since that memorable evening, Skillet Sweet and Sour Chicken has become a cherished recipe in my own family. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a celebratory weekend feast, this dish brings us together, just as it did for the innkeeper’s family. As the tantalizing aroma wafts through the air, it serves as a reminder that the simplest recipes often carry the most profound stories.
So, dear readers, I invite you to embrace the warmth and simplicity of Skillet Sweet and Sour Chicken. Gather your loved ones, create new memories, and let the flavors transport you to a place of comfort and connection. As you savor each bite, remember that the heart of this recipe lies not only in its ingredients but in the stories it helps us weave.
Stay tuned as I guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this beloved dish in your very own kitchen. From my family to yours, let’s embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the beauty of home cooking and the magic of shared moments.
How to Prepare Skillet Sweet and Sour Chicken
Click here to get printable version
Ingredients for Skillet Sweet and Sour Chicken
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 3 celery ribs, sliced
- 2 green bell peppers, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- ½ cup ketchup
- ½ cup lemon juice
- ½ cup crushed pineapple with syrup
- ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
Directions for Skillet Sweet and Sour Chicken
- In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, salt, and ground black pepper.
- Roll the chicken cubes in the flour mixture until they’re evenly coated.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the coated chicken cubes to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, transfer the cooked chicken to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and heat it over medium heat.
- Add the sliced celery, diced green bell peppers, and chopped onion to the skillet. Cook and stir these vegetables until they’re slightly tender, which takes around 5 minutes.
- While the vegetables are cooking, whisk together the ketchup, lemon juice, crushed pineapple with syrup, and packed brown sugar in a bowl.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour the prepared pineapple mixture over it.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, and then cook and stir the chicken and vegetables in the sauce until they’re heated through. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Once everything is heated through and coated with the delicious sauce, your Skillet Sweet and Sour Chicken is ready to be enjoyed!
Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken is the traditional choice, you can definitely experiment with pork, shrimp, or tofu for a unique twist.
Is there a substitute for ketchup in the sauce?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use tomato sauce or even tomato paste diluted with a bit of water.
I’m not a fan of bell peppers. Can I omit them?
Of course! Feel free to customize the recipe to your taste. You can replace bell peppers with other colorful vegetables like carrots or snap peas.
What can I serve this dish with?
Skillet Sweet and Sour Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice or brown rice. You can also enjoy it with some noodles or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it before adding it to the skillet.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s a great option for family dinners. The sweet and tangy flavors are often appealing to kids, and you can adjust the spice level to suit their preferences.
Skillet Sweet and Sour Chicken
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 pound skinless boneless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil divided
- 3 celery ribs sliced
- 2 green bell peppers diced
- 1 onion chopped
- ½ cup ketchup
- ½ cup lemon juice
- ½ cup crushed pineapple with syrup
- ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
Instructions
- Combine flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. Roll chicken in flour mixture to coat.
- Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook and stir until no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
- Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in the same skillet over medium heat. Add celery, bell peppers, and onion; cook and stir until slightly tender, about 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, whisk ketchup, lemon juice, pineapple with syrup, and brown sugar together in a bowl.
- Return chicken to the skillet, pour in pineapple mixture, and bring to a boil. Cook and stir chicken and vegetables in the sauce until heated through, 2 to 3 minutes.
