Sweet and Sour Chicken with Rice

This delightful dish is a fusion of flavors, combining the tender juiciness of chicken with the bold zesty notes of sweet and sour sauce. A simple yet satisfying meal, it's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch. The chicken, marinated in soy sauce and potato starch, becomes wonderfully tender when cooked. The addition of sweet and sour sauce adds an exciting twist to the classic chicken and rice combination. This dish is not only flavorful but also versatile, allowing you to experiment with different types of sweet and sour sauces to suit your taste. It's an approachable meal that doesn't require an extensive list of ingredients, making it accessible to novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Additionally, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes or can be enjoyed as a standalone entrée. Whether you are cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and appealing presentation. The fragrant rice acts as the perfect bed, absorbing all the savory juices from the chicken, which enhances its flavor further. Serve it with fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness, elevating the dish to restaurant-quality standards.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

500 g chicken breast
4 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons potato starch
Sweet and sour sauce of choice
2 packets of rice

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by preparing the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a bowl.
Marinate the chicken: Add the soy sauce and potato starch to the chicken pieces. Mix well, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate for approximately 10 minutes.
Cook the rice: While the chicken is marinating, start cooking the rice according to the package instructions, usually about 15 minutes.
Heat the pan: Once the rice is cooking, heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil.
Sauté the chicken: Once the pan is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces. Cook them until they are browned on the outside and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
Add the sauce: Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the cooked chicken in the pan. Stir well to ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated.
Simmer briefly: Allow the chicken and sauce to simmer together for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
Plate the dish: Arrange the cooked rice in the center of each serving plate. Spoon the chicken and sauce around the rice, creating an appealing presentation.
Garnish: For an extra touch, consider garnishing with fresh herbs such as cilantro or green onions.

Tips

Use fresh chicken for the best flavor and texture.
Try different sweet and sour sauce brands for varied flavors.
If potato starch is unavailable, cornstarch can be used as a substitute.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 500 per serving
Protein: 35g
Fats: 10g
Carbohydrates: 55g

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu, marinated similarly, for a vegetarian version.
Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sweet and sour sauce for an extra kick.
Gluten-Free: Ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free for a celiac-friendly option.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
Pair it with steamed broccoli for added fiber and nutrients.
Top with chopped peanuts or sesame seeds for a crunchy texture.

Best Places

Little Bird - Known for its delicious take on Asian dishes. Location: 29-31 William St, Melbourne, Australia.
Bao Bei - A contemporary spot for Asian fusion meals. Location: 163 Keefer St, Vancouver, Canada.
Mr. Wong - Offers an exquisite array of Cantonese dishes. Location: 3 Bridge Ln, Sydney, Australia.
Duck Tang's - A trendy spot for a wide range of sweet and sour dishes. Location: 2-4 King William St, London, UK.
Hon's Wonton House - Famous for its traditional and fusion flavors. Location: 4850 Imperial St, Burnaby, Canada.
Bun's Bakery - Delivers unique Asian-inspired delights. Location: 100 Heidelberg Ln, Los Angeles, USA.
Tang's Deli - Celebrated for its fresh take on classic favorites. Location: 47A High St, Singapore City, Singapore.
Lotus Lounge - Modern style with a vast selection of sauces. Location: 76 Street Shop, Beijing, China.
Jade Garden - Offers traditional and fusion styles. Location: 816 Dixon Rd, Toronto, Canada.
Lucky Chopsticks - Ideal for the regional taste. Location: 909 Main St, Boston, USA.