Sweet & Sour Glazed Chicken with Quick Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
Tap the ingredients you have on hand
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces≈ $6.40
- 1 tbsp cooking oil≈ $0.15
- 2 cloves garlic, minced≈ $0.10
- 1/4 cup sugar≈ $0.10
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar≈ $1.10missing
- 1 tbsp soy sauce≈ $0.15missing
- 1 tbsp ketchup≈ $0.15missing
- 1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water)≈ $0.15missing
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced≈ $0.35
- 1/4 red onion, very thinly sliced (for salad)≈ $0.10
- 1 tbsp white vinegar (for salad)≈ $0.15missing
- 1 tsp sugar (for salad)≈ $0.10
- 1/4 tsp salt (for salad)≈ $0.10
Prices are rough US grocery estimates per ingredient and may vary by store and season.
Instructions
- 1
For the salad: In a bowl, combine thinly sliced cucumber and red onion. Whisk together white vinegar, 1 tsp sugar, and 1/4 tsp salt. Pour over vegetables and toss. Let sit while cooking chicken.
- 2
For the chicken glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and ketchup. Set aside.
- 3
Heat cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- 4
Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- 5
Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 6
Pour in the glaze mixture and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry.
- 7
Cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- 8
Return cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sweet and sour glaze.
- 9
Serve the glazed chicken immediately with the quick cucumber salad on the side.
About this recipe
Craving a vibrant, flavorful weeknight meal that comes together in a flash This sweet and sour chicken recipe, complete with a bright cucumber salad, offers a perfect balance of tangy and savory notes that will delight your palate. It's an ideal choice for a quick dinner for two, promising restaurant-quality taste without the fuss, showcasing tender chicken in a glossy, irresistible glaze. This Chinese-inspired dish is not only delicious but also remarkably efficient, cooking in about 25 minutes. It's a fantastic option for busy evenings when you want something satisfying and homemade, making it a staple for easy glazed chicken recipes and quick dinner ideas alike. Prepare to add this speedy stir-fry alternative to your regular rotation.
The story behind it
The tradition of sweet and sour flavors is deeply rooted in Chinese cuisine, originally created to appeal to a wider range of palates. While this version is simplified for the modern home cook, it draws inspiration from classic preparations, emphasizing the delightful contrast between sweetness and acidity. It's a testament to how adaptable and universally loved these flavors are, bringing a touch of authentic-inspired taste to your kitchen with minimal effort.
Chef's tips
- 1Cut chicken pieces uniformly to ensure even cooking and prevent some pieces from drying out.
- 2Whisk the cornstarch with water thoroughly before adding to the sauce to avoid lumps.
- 3For extra crispness, pat chicken dry before cooking to encourage better browning.
- 4Allow the cucumber salad to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- 5Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken; cook in batches if necessary for a better sear.
Ways to make it your own
Substitute chicken with extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed, then pan-fried until golden before adding to the sauce.
Add a few chunks of canned pineapple with the sauce for an extra fruity burst and sweetness.
Stir in a teaspoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a delightful spicy-sweet contrast.
Include a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger with the garlic for an aromatic boost to the chicken glaze.
Frequently asked
How can I make the chicken extra crispy for this recipe+
For crispier chicken, toss the chicken pieces with a teaspoon of cornstarch before cooking and pan-fry them in slightly more oil until golden brown and slightly crispy before adding the sauce.
Can I prepare the cucumber salad ahead of time+
Yes, you can prepare the quick cucumber salad up to an hour in advance and store it in the refrigerator; however, it is best enjoyed fresh to maintain its crisp texture.
What can I serve with this sweet and sour chicken dish+
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white or brown rice, or even some quick-cooking noodles, to soak up all the delicious glaze.
Why is my sweet and sour sauce not thickening properly+
Ensure you are mixing the cornstarch with cold water thoroughly before adding it to the simmering sauce; if it's still too thin, you can dissolve another 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch in a tablespoon of cold water and add it gradually.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free+
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari and ensure your ketchup is also a gluten-free brand.