As the day fades into twilight and the enticing scent of something delicious wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of comfort wash over me. This isn’t just any meal; it’s the crispy, golden goodness of Chinese Chicken Balls With Sweet And Sour Sauce—a dish that somehow manages to transport my taste buds straight to my favorite takeout spot without ever leaving home.
After a long week of mundane meals, I found myself craving that perfect balance of crunch and flavor. Inspired by that longing for something new yet comforting, I decided to whip up this family-favorite recipe that’s sure to impress. From the first satisfying crunch to that delightful dip in the tangy-sweet sauce, every bite is a celebration of flavors that I can’t resist sharing. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s roll up our sleeves and bring a taste of the Orient to our dinner table in just 30 minutes!
Why Chinese Chicken Balls With Sweet And Sour Sauce?
Deliciously Crunchy: You’ll be amazed by the crispy exterior that gives way to succulent chicken inside; it’s a texture party in your mouth!
Time-Saving: With just 30 minutes needed from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
Flavor Explosion: The rich and tangy sweet and sour sauce elevates the dish, making it a family favorite in no time.
Endless Versatility: Serve them as an appetizer, or make them the star of your meal—either way, they won’t last long!
Homemade Goodness: Ditch the takeout; creating these delicious bites at home ensures you control the flavors and freshness.
Get ready for a fun and tasty cooking adventure! If you love homemade flavors, you might also enjoy our tasty side dishes.
Chinese Chicken Balls Ingredients
• Let’s gather what you need for these delightful bites!
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce
- ½ cup water – A vital component for adjusting the sauce’s consistency.
- 3 tablespoons ketchup – Adds a tangy sweetness that’s simply irresistible.
- 6 tablespoons brown sugar – Brings warmth and depth of flavor to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons vinegar – Enhances the sauce’s tartness, balancing the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Freshness to brighten up the flavors.
- 1 ½ teaspoons cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce to that perfect glaze.
For the Chicken Balls
- ½ teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing every flavor in this dish.
- 1 cup cornstarch – Provides an ultra-crispy coating when fried.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – Creates a lovely batter base for the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon sugar – A hint of sweetness complements the savory elements.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – Ensures a light and airy texture.
- 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt – For that perfect seasoned crust.
- 1 ½ cups cold water – Ensures a smooth batter that clings beautifully to the chicken.
- 3-4 chicken breasts – The star of this dish, ensuring juicy bites bursting with flavor.
- neutral oil – Ideal for frying, keeping flavors clean and allowing the chicken to shine.
Now that you’ve got all the ingredients ready, you’re one step closer to making mouth-watering Chinese Chicken Balls With Sweet And Sour Sauce!
How to Make Chinese Chicken Balls With Sweet And Sour Sauce
-
Combine the sweet and sour sauce ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Once it bubbles, remove it from the heat and set aside to cool for serving.
-
Whisk together the cornstarch, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl until well blended. This will create a delightful light coating!
-
Stir in the cold water gradually until the mixture is mostly smooth, allowing the batter to form. It should be a thick but pourable consistency.
-
Dip a piece of chicken into the batter, ensuring it’s completely covered. Let the excess drip off briefly before carefully lowering it into hot oil for frying.
-
Cook about 8 to 10 chicken pieces at a time for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to get that perfect color!
-
Transfer the cooked chicken balls to a wire rack to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately with the sweet and sour sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping.
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Chinese Chicken Balls
-
Choose Fresh Chicken: Always opt for fresh chicken breasts for the juiciest bites. Frozen chicken might lead to a dryer texture after frying.
-
Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at around 350°F to ensure a crispy exterior. If the temperature is too low, the batter may become soggy.
-
Avoid Overcrowding: Frying too many chicken pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Fry in batches for the best results!
-
Test the Batter: Before dipping all the chicken, test a small piece. If the batter doesn’t adhere well, it may need a bit more flour or cornstarch.
-
Perfect Coating: Ensure the chicken is well-coated with batter and let excess drip for a light, crispy texture when fried.
A bite of these crispy Chinese Chicken Balls With Sweet And Sour Sauce will have everyone asking for more!
Chinese Chicken Balls Variations
Feel free to get creative with these variations, making this dish your own!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free for a crispy coating.
-
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or sriracha to the batter for a fiery twist that balances beautifully with the sweet sauce.
-
Veggie Option: Swap chicken for firm tofu or a medley of your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers and broccoli, for a delightful plant-based alternative.
-
Herb-Infused: Mix chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the batter for a refreshing burst of flavor that elevates each bite.
-
Baked Version: Instead of frying, coat the chicken balls with oil and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes for a healthier, yet still crispy, option.
-
Zesty Citrus: Incorporate lime or orange zest into the batter to give a bright, fragrant twist that pairs perfectly with the sweet and sour sauce.
-
Nutty Flavor: Add a handful of crushed peanuts, sesame seeds, or almond flour to the batter for an unexpected crunch and nutty flavor profile.
-
Stuffed Chicken: For a fun surprise, stuff each chicken piece with a cube of cheese or a slice of jalapeño before battering for added indulgence.
With these tasty variations, you’ll never tire of making Chinese Chicken Balls With Sweet And Sour Sauce!
What to Serve with Chinese Chicken Balls With Sweet And Sour Sauce?
Imagine a vibrant dinner table filled with delightful flavors and textures that perfectly complement the crispy chicken balls glistening with sweet and sour sauce.
-
Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, aromatic rice soaks up the sauce beautifully, making every bite a harmonious experience.
-
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the chicken.
-
Egg Fried Rice: This savory side boosts the Asian flavors, with each grain coated in a whisper of soy sauce and dotted with tender peas and carrots.
-
Cucumber Salad: The crispness of cucumbers tossed in a light vinegar dressing offers a refreshing, cool contrast to the warm, crispy chicken.
-
Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites filled with veggies and served with a spicy dipping sauce create a delightful appetizer that enhances the main dish.
-
Chili Garlic Noodles: Spicy and bold, the noodles add an exciting kick while providing a chewy texture to round out the meal.
-
Peach Iced Tea: The sweet and fruity notes of this drink beautifully complement the sweet and sour flavors, making it a refreshing choice for pairing.
-
Mango Sorbet: For dessert, this light, fruity treat cleanses the palate after the savory feast, leaving a sweet note on your tongue.
Each of these additions brings a unique touch, creating a dining experience that feels both special and comforting!
Make Ahead Options
These Chinese Chicken Balls With Sweet And Sour Sauce are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline mealtime! You can prepare the sweet and sour sauce up to 3 days in advance by simply mixing all the sauce ingredients, cooling it, and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the chicken balls, you can also batter the chicken pieces and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying, ensuring that they maintain their flavor and texture. When ready to serve, simply fry the chicken as directed until golden and crispy, and enjoy the convenience of a homemade feast that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Chinese Chicken Balls
Fridge: Store leftover Chinese Chicken Balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and crispness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
Reheating: To bring back their crunch, reheat the chicken balls in an oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes. Enjoy them with the sweet and sour sauce for a delightful meal reprise.
Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, it’s best to keep them out for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Chinese Chicken Balls With Sweet And Sour Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my chicken is fresh?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, look for pieces that are pink and moist with no dark spots or an off smell. Fresh chicken should feel firm but not sticky. If you notice any dark spots all over, it’s best to skip that piece.
What’s the best way to store leftover chicken balls?
Certainly! To keep your Chinese Chicken Balls fresh, simply place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture from making them soggy.
Can I freeze my chicken balls? How?
Definitely! To freeze your Chinese Chicken Balls, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until solid—about 1 to 2 hours. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat directly from frozen!
What should I do if my batter isn’t sticking to the chicken?
No worries! If you’re facing a batter adhesion issue, try dredging the chicken in a little cornstarch or flour before dipping it into the batter. This creates a better surface for the batter to cling to. Also, ensure that your batter is thick enough; if it seems too runny, add a bit more cornstarch or flour to achieve a more cohesive coating.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very important! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, please note that this recipe contains gluten from all-purpose flour and cornstarch. Additionally, ensure that the ketchup used is free of additives if anyone has dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free option, consider using a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour and cornstarch.
How long can I keep the sweet and sour sauce?
You can keep the sweet and sour sauce in the refrigerator for up to a week! Make sure to store it in an airtight container. If you’d like to keep it even longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw and give it a quick stir before serving again.
Crispy Chinese Chicken Balls With Sweet And Sour Sauce Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the sweet and sour sauce ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Once it bubbles, remove it from the heat and set aside to cool for serving.
- Whisk together the cornstarch, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl until well blended. This will create a delightful light coating!
- Stir in the cold water gradually until the mixture is mostly smooth, allowing the batter to form. It should be a thick but pourable consistency.
- Dip a piece of chicken into the batter, ensuring it’s completely covered. Let the excess drip off briefly before carefully lowering it into hot oil for frying.
- Cook about 8 to 10 chicken pieces at a time for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to get that perfect color!
- Transfer the cooked chicken balls to a wire rack to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately with the sweet and sour sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping.
