Sweet and Sour Chicken - Freezer Meal Version
Try this Sweet and Sour Chicken - freezer meal version recipe
Try this Sweet and Sour Chicken - freezer meal version recipe
- salt & pepper to taste
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1/2 cup reserved pineapple juice
- 3 tablespoons of water
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 2-3 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 bell peppers diced into large chunks (i use 1â red
- 1/2 of a 20 oz canâ of pineapple chunks (about 1 cup) drained (but set asideâ 1/2 cup of theâ juice)
- 3 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup of chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- Carbohydrate 26.2365 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 3.52249999714694 g
- Fiber 2.12000005617738 g
- Protein 1.71 g
- Saturated Fat 0.51471999960605 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (283g)
- Sodium 162.52699999844 mg
- Sugar 24.1164999438226 g
- Trans Fat 0.140944999922739 g
- Calories 139 calories
Step-by-step
- Place the cubed chicken in one bag and seal.
- Combine all the pineapple juice, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, and chicken stock and pour into another bag.
- Chop the veggies and add the bell peppers and onions to a third bag with the pineapple chunks.
- Remove the meal kit from the freezer and let thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Heat the olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Brown the chicken, but don't cook all the way through.
- Place the contents of the vegetable bag in a strainer to drain off any excess water and then add the chopped veggies and pineapple to the skillet.
- Cook for 1 minute and then turn the heat down to medium.
- In a small bowl, stir together the cornstarch or arrowroot powder and water.
- Add the contents of the sauce bag to your skillet and then drizzle in the cornstarch mixture while stirring the pan constantly.
- Stir together to make sure all of the chicken is coated in the sauce which should be starting to thicken.
- Turn off the heat and cover the skillet.
- Let the sweet and sour chicken sit, covered, for about 5 minutes before serving to ensure the chicken is completely cooked and the sauce is the perfect consistency.
Sweet and Sour Chicken: A Freezer-Friendly Family Favorite
As a busy mom, time is my most precious commodity. Juggling work, kids’ activities, and keeping a household running smoothly leaves little room for elaborate meal preparation. That's why I've become a huge fan of freezer meals – they're my secret weapon for quick, healthy, and delicious dinners on busy weeknights. This Sweet and Sour Chicken recipe is a perfect example of how easy and efficient freezer meals can be.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. It's a crowd-pleaser, perfect for picky eaters and adventurous palates alike. The sweet and tangy sauce is incredibly flavorful, coating tender chicken and vibrant vegetables. And the best part? You can prep it all ahead of time, portion it into freezer-safe bags, and pull it out when you’re ready for a stress-free dinner.
The key to a successful freezer meal is proper preparation. I meticulously portion the chicken, vegetables, and sauce into separate bags. This prevents the sauce from making the chicken soggy before freezing and also makes for easy cooking. When I’m ready to cook, I just let the meal thaw overnight in the fridge, then I can get it on the table in a flash, perfect for those evenings where getting the family to eat a healthy dinner is almost as challenging as trying to tame a pack of wild kittens.
Beyond the ease of preparation and cooking, the flexibility of this recipe is a huge plus. Feel free to experiment with the vegetables; broccoli, carrots, or snow peas would all be wonderful additions. You could also adjust the sweetness or tartness of the sauce to your liking. It's a truly customizable recipe that adapts to your preferences and dietary needs. I've even been known to add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Beyond the Dinner Table:
This Sweet and Sour Chicken isn’t just for weeknight dinners; it’s incredibly versatile. Pack it for lunch (once it’s thawed and reheated, of course!), or serve it as a party appetizer. The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. It can also be a lifesaver for unexpected guests. Having a few of these freezer bags on hand is like having a culinary insurance policy. That sweet relief when you look in the freezer and see a bag of this gorgeousness waiting for you? Pure gold.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
Freezing Tips:
- Use heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Press out as much air as possible from the bags before sealing.
- Label and date the bags clearly for easy identification.
- For optimal flavor, try to use your freezer meal within 3 months.
Cooking Tips:
- Let the meal thaw completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when browning the chicken.
- Stir frequently while adding the cornstarch mixture to prevent lumps.
- Adjust cooking time depending on the thickness of the chicken pieces.
This Sweet and Sour Chicken Freezer Meal recipe is a game-changer for busy individuals who still crave delicious and healthy home-cooked meals. It’s a testament to the fact that convenient and flavorful needn’t be mutually exclusive. So embrace the ease, the flavor, and the peace of mind that comes with having a stash of these ready-to-cook meals waiting in your freezer. You won't regret it. Trust me. After all, even a supermom needs a break sometimes.
