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Classic Sweet and Sour Chicken Thighs: An Easy Recipe

Sweet and sour chicken is a beloved dish that combines delightful flavours and textures, making it a favourite in many households. This classic recipe uses chicken thighs, which bring a rich, succulent quality to the dish. Perfect for a midweek meal or a gathering with friends, sweet and sour chicken is both delicious and simple to prepare. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that promises to tantalise your taste buds!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon cornflour (cornstarch) for coating

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons white vinegar
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon cornflour (cornstarch) mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 small piece of ginger, grated (optional)

For the Vegetables:

• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 onion, cut into wedges
• 1 carrot, sliced
• Pineapple chunks (canned or fresh) – optional but recommended!

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry with kitchen paper. This helps them brown nicely when cooked. Season with salt and pepper, and lightly coat them with cornflour for a crispy texture.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Create the Sweet and Sour Sauce

1. In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and grated ginger (if using). Cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and ketchup. Pour this mixture into the pan, stirring well. Allow it to bubble gently.
3. After a few minutes, add the cornflour slurry to thicken the sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce reaches your desired consistency, then return the cooked chicken to the pan.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

1. Toss the chopped bell pepper, onion, carrot, and pineapple chunks into the pan. Stir everything together, making sure the chicken and vegetables are well-coated with the sauce.
2. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while retaining their crunch.

Step 4: Serve

1. Once everything is heated through and well combined, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add a bit more sugar if you prefer a sweeter sauce, or a splash more vinegar for tanginess.
2. Serve your sweet and sour chicken thighs over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with chopped spring onions or sesame seeds for an added touch of flavour and presentation.

Tips for Success

• Make it Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time. Simply reheat in a pan, adding a splash of water or extra vinegar to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
• Dynamic Flavours: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as broccoli, peas, or sugar snap peas to customise the dish to your liking.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days and can be frozen for longer preservation.

Conclusion

Classic sweet and sour chicken thighs are an exemplary dish that combines ease of preparation with vibrant flavours. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Try it today, and enjoy the delightful balance of sweet and tangy in every bite! Happy cooking!