Craving that classic sweet and sour chicken but trying to avoid gluten? You’re in luck! This recipe for gluten free sweet and sour chicken captures all the tangy, sweet, and savory flavors of the original, minus the gluten. Let’s dive into how to make this crowd-pleasing dish right in your own kitchen.
The Perfect Gluten Free Batter for Your Chicken
The key to nailing that irresistible texture in sweet and sour chicken is all in the batter. While traditional recipes often rely on wheat flour, we’re going gluten free with a few simple swaps that don’t compromise on taste or crunch.
- Cornstarch: This is our gluten free hero! Cornstarch creates a light and crispy coating that fries beautifully.
- Tapioca Flour: Adding a bit of tapioca flour to the mix enhances the crispiness even further.
- Baking Powder: A touch of baking powder adds a bit of lift and airiness to the batter, preventing it from becoming dense.
Pro Tip: For extra crispy chicken, try double-frying! Fry the chicken once, let it rest, then fry it again right before serving. This extra step guarantees maximum crunch.
Gluten Free Batter Ingredients
Creating that Tangy Sweet and Sour Sauce
The star of the show, aside from the perfectly cooked chicken, is undoubtedly that vibrant and flavorful sweet and sour sauce. Here’s how to make it sing:
- Pineapple Juice: This forms the base of our sauce, lending natural sweetness and a subtle tang.
- Rice Vinegar: We’re swapping out regular vinegar for rice vinegar, which offers a milder, slightly sweeter flavor.
- Brown Sugar: Adjust the amount to your liking, but brown sugar provides that perfect caramel-like sweetness that balances the vinegar.
- Soy Sauce (Tamari for Gluten Free): A splash of soy sauce (or tamari for a strictly gluten free version) adds a savory depth and umami to round out the flavors.
- Ketchup: Just a touch of ketchup adds a hint of tanginess and vibrant color to our sauce.
Pro Tip: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
Sweet and Sour Sauce Simmering
Gluten Free Sweet and Sour Chicken: Putting it all Together
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup tapioca flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup water
- Oil for frying
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari)
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together the salt, pepper, cornstarch, tapioca flour, and baking powder.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and water.
- Dip the chicken pieces into the egg mixture, then dredge in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Fry for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- To make the sauce, combine all the sauce ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Whisk constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss to coat.
- Serve immediately over a bed of rice and your favorite steamed vegetables.
Gluten Free Sweet and Sour Chicken Plating
FAQs: Gluten Free Sweet and Sour Chicken
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can definitely prepare elements ahead! The chicken can be battered and fried earlier in the day. Simply reheat it in the oven or a skillet before tossing it with the freshly made sauce.
What kind of oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work great for frying. These oils have neutral flavors and high smoke points.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs perfectly with steamed white rice or brown rice. Add a side of your favorite steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for a complete meal.
Craving More Gluten Free Recipes?
Check out these other delicious and easy gluten free options:
- Gluten Free Superbowl Snacks
- Gluten and Dairy Free Super Bowl Recipes
- Gluten Free Veggie Pizza
- Gluten Free Smoked Mac and Cheese
- Lipton Soup Mix Gluten Free
Enjoy Your Gluten Free Feast!
This gluten free sweet and sour chicken recipe proves that you can enjoy your favorite dishes without compromising your dietary needs. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a flavorful and satisfying meal.