Name: Ground Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1½ lbs ground chicken; 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil; ½ yellow onion; ½ green bell pepper; ½ red bell pepper; 1 cup pineapple; For Sauce:; ½ cup sugar; ¼ cup brown sugar; ½ cup apple cider vinegar; ⅓ cup ketchup; 4 tsp reduced sodium soy sauce; 2 cloves garlic

Experience a delightful balance of flavors with this ground sweet and sour chicken recipe. Perfect for a quick dinner, this dish combines tender ground chicken with a vibrant medley of bell peppers, pineapple, and a tangy sweet-and-sour sauce.

Photos of Ground Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you might need to pick up a few items not commonly found in every pantry. Ground chicken is the main protein and an essential component. Apple cider vinegar is used for its tangy flavor, adding a unique twist to the sauce. Additionally, pineapple brings a sweet and refreshing element that perfectly complements the savory ingredients.

Ingredients For Ground Sweet And Sour Chicken Recipe

Ground chicken: This is the main protein for the dish, providing a tender and flavorful base.

Vegetable oil: Used for cooking the chicken and vegetables, ensuring they don't stick to the pan.

Yellow onion: Adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish.

Green bell pepper: Provides a mild, slightly bitter taste and crisp texture.

Red bell pepper: Offers a sweet, tangy flavor that complements the green bell pepper.

Pineapple: Adds a juicy, sweet element to balance the savory flavors.

Sugar: Used to sweeten the sauce and balance the acidity.

Brown sugar: Adds a deeper, molasses-like sweetness to enhance the sauce.

Apple cider vinegar: Provides a tangy acidity that pairs well with the sweetness.

Ketchup: Adds a rich, tomato-based sweetness and color to the sauce.

Reduced sodium soy sauce: Contributes a salty, umami flavor while keeping sodium levels in check.

Garlic: Infuses the dish with a robust, aromatic flavor.

One reader, Estevan Niles says:

This ground sweet and sour chicken recipe is a delightful blend of flavors. The tangy sauce perfectly complements the juicy chicken and crisp veggies. It's easy to make and a hit with the family. Definitely adding this to our regular meal rotation!

Estevan Niles

Key Techniques for Making Ground Sweet and Sour Chicken

How to whisk: Combine ingredients in a bowl and use a whisk to mix them until smooth. How to cook ground chicken: Heat oil in a pan, add ground chicken, and cook until a crust forms before breaking it apart and cooking through. How to cook vegetables: Add vegetables to a pan and cook until they are crisp-tender. How to make a sauce: Combine ingredients and cook them together until the sauce thickens.

How To Make Ground Sweet and Sour Chicken

Using ground meat is the secret to making sweet and sour chicken with all the flavors but with fewer calories. This dish takes is ready in 20 minutes.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½lbsground chicken
1tbspvegetable oil
½yellow onion,cut into ½-inch pieces
½green bell pepper,cut into ½-inch pieces
½red bell pepper,cut into ½-inch pieces
1cuppineapple,diced

For Sauce:

½cupsugar
¼cupbrown sugar
½cupapple cider vinegar
⅓cupketchup
4tspreduced sodium soy sauce
2clovesgarlic,minced

Instructions

To make the sauce, whisk together the sugar, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce and garlic into a small bowl. Set aside.
To a large pan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon oil and ground chicken.
Cook until a good crust forms before breaking apart, then finish cooking by breaking it apart with a spatula and cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the pan, leaving oil, or add 1 tablespoon oil if draining chicken.
Add the bell peppers, onion and pineapple and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, until crisp-tender.
Add the sauce to the pan and stir to coat everything, cooking for 30 seconds to warm the garlic.
Return chicken to the pan and toss to coat, cooking 1 to 2 more minutes until the sauce has thickened.

Nutrition

Calories: 314.02kcal
Fat: 11.64g
Saturated Fat: 2.78g
Trans Fat: 0.09g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.78g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.15g
Carbohydrates: 32.60g
Fiber: 1.02g
Sugar: 29.24g
Protein: 20.70g
Cholesterol: 97.52mg
Sodium: 301.32mg
Calcium: 25.72mg
Potassium: 749.95mg
Iron: 1.30mg
Vitamin A: 21.61µg
Vitamin C: 35.23mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Ground Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

When cooking the ground chicken, let it form a good crust before breaking it apart. This adds a deeper flavor and better texture to the dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Sweet and Sour Chicken

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop the onion, bell peppers, and pineapple in advance to save time during cooking.

Use pre-minced garlic: Opt for pre-minced garlic to cut down on prep time.

Cook in batches: Cook the ground chicken and vegetables separately to ensure even cooking and save time.

Make sauce in bulk: Prepare a larger batch of the sweet and sour sauce and store it in the fridge for future use.

Use a large pan: A larger pan allows you to cook more ingredients at once, speeding up the process.

Substitute Ingredients For Ground Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

ground chicken - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable alternative.
vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier option and works well for sautéing.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a similar flavor and texture, making them a good replacement.
green bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers have a similar sweetness and crunch.
red bell pepper - Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell peppers offer a similar sweetness and color.
pineapple - Substitute with mango: Mango provides a similar sweetness and tropical flavor.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and a slightly different flavor profile.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar sweetness and a slight caramel flavor.
apple cider vinegar - Substitute with rice vinegar: Rice vinegar has a similar acidity and mild flavor.
ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste and a bit of sugar: Tomato paste with sugar mimics the sweetness and consistency of ketchup.
reduced sodium soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative with a similar umami flavor.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder provides a similar flavor, though it is less pungent.

Presentation Tips for Ground Sweet and Sour Chicken

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the ground chicken in a delicate, circular mold to create a refined and elegant base on the plate.
Use decoration: Garnish with finely chopped green bell pepper and red bell pepper to add vibrant colors and a fresh crunch.
Highlight the sauce: Drizzle the sweet and sour sauce artistically around the plate, ensuring it complements the main dish without overwhelming it.
Add texture: Include a small side of crispy pineapple slices, lightly caramelized, to add a contrasting texture and enhance the tropical flavor profile.
Incorporate height: Stack the bell peppers and onion mixture neatly on top of the ground chicken, creating a visually appealing height and structure.
Use fresh herbs: Finish with a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
Balance the plate: Ensure each element is proportionately placed to create a balanced and harmonious presentation, with each ingredient clearly visible and accessible.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Sweet and Sour Chicken

Large pan: Used for cooking the ground chicken and later for combining all the ingredients with the sauce.
Spatula: Essential for breaking apart the ground chicken and stirring the ingredients.
Small bowl: Needed for whisking together the sauce ingredients.
Whisk: Used to mix the sauce ingredients thoroughly.
Knife: For chopping the yellow onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and pineapple.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the vegetables and pineapple.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the sugar, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and ketchup.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the soy sauce and garlic.
Garlic press: Optional, but helpful for mincing the garlic cloves efficiently.
Wooden spoon: Useful for stirring the vegetables and sauce in the pan.
Serving dish: For presenting the finished sweet and sour ground chicken.

Storing and Freezing Sweet and Sour Chicken

Let the ground sweet and sour chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, portion the cooled sweet and sour chicken into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
Freeze the sweet and sour chicken for up to 2-3 months for optimal quality and flavor.
To reheat, thaw the frozen sweet and sour chicken in the refrigerator overnight.
Transfer the thawed chicken to a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Alternatively, reheat the thawed sweet and sour chicken in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through and the sauce is bubbling.
If the sauce appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out and adjust the consistency to your liking.

How to Reheat Sweet and Sour Chicken Leftovers

Reheat in a skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help steam the chicken and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Microwave in a covered microwave-safe dish. Add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth to help keep the chicken moist. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
Reheat in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the ground sweet and sour chicken to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
For a crispy texture, reheat the ground sweet and sour chicken under the broiler. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly crispy on top.
Reheat in an air fryer for a quick and crispy result. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), add the ground sweet and sour chicken, and cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until heated through and crispy.

Interesting Fact About Sweet and Sour Chicken

A random fact about this recipe is that the combination of pineapple and bell peppers not only adds a burst of color but also provides a balance of sweetness and crunch, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the sweet and sour chicken.

Is Making Sweet and Sour Chicken at Home Cost-Effective?

This ground sweet and sour chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using ground chicken instead of whole cuts reduces costs, and the vegetables like bell peppers and onion are affordable and nutritious. The pineapple adds a touch of sweetness without breaking the bank. The sauce ingredients are pantry staples, making it budget-friendly. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $12-$15.

Is This Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe Healthy?

The ground sweet and sour chicken recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. Let's break it down:

Healthy elements:

Ground chicken is a lean protein source
Bell peppers and onions provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber
Pineapple adds natural sweetness and contains enzymes that aid digestion

Unhealthy aspects:

The sauce contains a significant amount of sugar and brown sugar, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues if consumed regularly
Ketchup and soy sauce may contain added sugars and sodium
The recipe lacks a significant source of complex carbohydrates or whole grains

To make this recipe healthier, you could:

Reduce the amount of sugar and brown sugar in the sauce, or replace them with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
Use a sugar-free or low-sugar ketchup alternative
Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as carrots, broccoli, or snap peas, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Serve the sweet and sour chicken over a bed of brown rice or quinoa to add complex carbohydrates and additional fiber
Use a leaner ground chicken or turkey to further reduce the fat content
Experiment with alternative cooking methods, such as baking or grilling, to reduce the amount of oil needed

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious meal that still satisfies your craving for sweet and sour flavors.

Editor's Opinion on This Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

This ground sweet and sour chicken recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors with its tangy sauce and vibrant mix of vegetables and pineapple. The use of ground chicken provides a unique twist on the classic dish, making it quicker to cook while still delivering on taste. The sauce, with its combination of sugars, apple cider vinegar, and ketchup, achieves a perfect harmony of sweet and sour. The brief cooking time for the vegetables ensures they remain crisp-tender, adding a pleasant texture contrast. Overall, it's a well-rounded, flavorful dish that's both easy to prepare and satisfying.

Enhance Your Ground Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Butter Rice: Imagine a bed of fluffy rice infused with the rich, savory notes of garlic and a hint of butter. This side dish will soak up the sweet and tangy sauce of your ground sweet and sour chicken, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that dance on your palate.

Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a zesty sesame dressing, sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds and a touch of chili flakes. This crisp, cool side dish provides a delightful contrast to the warm, savory chicken, making each bite a refreshing experience.

Stir-Fried Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans stir-fried with a hint of soy sauce and garlic, finished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds. These vibrant green beans add a crunchy texture and a burst of umami flavor that complements the sweet and sour notes of the chicken perfectly.

Mango Sticky Rice: For a touch of sweetness, serve a portion of mango sticky rice. The creamy, coconut-infused sticky rice paired with juicy slices of mango offers a delightful dessert-like side that balances the savory and tangy elements of your main dish.

Egg Drop Soup: A warm bowl of egg drop soup with delicate ribbons of egg floating in a flavorful broth. This light and comforting soup serves as a perfect starter, setting the stage for the bold flavors of your ground sweet and sour chicken.

Similar Recipes to Ground Sweet and Sour Chicken

Sweet and Sour Pork: Dive into the classic sweet and sour pork! This dish features tender pork pieces coated in a tangy sauce, paired with bell peppers, pineapple, and onions. Perfect for a family dinner.

Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry: Experience the savory delight of teriyaki chicken stir-fry. Juicy chicken strips cooked with broccoli, carrots, and snap peas in a rich teriyaki sauce. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Orange Chicken: Savor the zesty flavors of orange chicken. Crispy chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, complemented by green onions and sesame seeds. A delightful twist on a takeout favorite.

General Tso's Chicken: Indulge in the spicy and sweet goodness of General Tso's chicken. This dish features crispy chicken bites coated in a bold sauce with hints of garlic and ginger. Serve with steamed broccoli and rice.

Pineapple Chicken Skewers: Enjoy the tropical taste of pineapple chicken skewers. Marinated chicken chunks and juicy pineapple pieces grilled to perfection. Ideal for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Sweet and Sour Chicken

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Start by hollowing out large mushroom caps and filling them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown. The creamy, garlicky filling pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, making this a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with Bruschetta. Toast slices of baguette until they are crisp and golden. Top with a fresh mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of the crunchy bread and the fresh, tangy topping is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, molten chocolate center oozing out as you cut into a perfectly baked cake. This decadent treat pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry sauce. The contrast between the warm, gooey chocolate and the cold, creamy ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh mint leaves for an elegant presentation.

Lemon Meringue Pie: A buttery, flaky crust filled with a tangy lemon curd and topped with a cloud of toasted meringue. The lemon curd offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart, while the meringue adds a light, airy texture. Serve chilled for a refreshing end to your meal. For an extra touch, add a few candied lemon slices on top and a dusting of lemon zest to enhance the citrus flavor.

Why trust this Ground Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe:

This ground sweet and sour chicken recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that balances the tangy and sweet notes perfectly. Using ground chicken ensures a tender and juicy texture, while the combination of bell peppers, pineapple, and onion adds a vibrant crunch. The homemade sweet and sour sauce is easy to prepare and brings a rich, authentic taste. Trust this recipe for a quick, satisfying meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

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FAQ:

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey, pork, or even beef. Just keep in mind that the flavor might change slightly depending on the meat you choose.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to eat, reheat it in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.

What can I serve with this sweet and sour chicken?

This dish goes great with steamed rice, fried rice, or even noodles. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Definitely! Fresh pineapple works just as well as canned. Just make sure to cut it into small, bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly with the other ingredients.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Add this to the sauce while it's cooking and stir until it thickens to your desired consistency.