INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). And season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste.
• Dredge the seasoned chicken in cornstarch, shaking off any excess. Then dip the cornstarch-coated chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Step 2: Crispy Coating and Baking

• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
• Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.Place the fried chicken in a single layer in a baking dish.

Step 3: Creating the Sweet and Sour Sauce

• In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ginger powder.
• Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly to dissolve the sugar and blend the flavors.
• Mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Bringing It All Together

• Pour the thickened sweet and sour sauce over the fried chicken in the baking dish, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly.
• Add pineapple chunks, diced red and green bell peppers, and diced onion to the dish, distributing them among the chicken pieces and sauce.
• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve with Joy

• Once baked, uncover the dish and sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Serve this delightful dish over steamed rice or alongside crispy noodles for a complete meal experience.
• Watch as smiles light up the faces of your loved ones as they savor the delicious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite.