Paleo Gluten Free Healthy Sweet and Sour Chicken

When I first experimented with the Paleo Gluten Free Healthy Sweet and Sour Chicken, I was craving something vibrant and flavorful, yet wholesome. This dish is a delightful blend of juicy chicken, tangy pineapple, and a rich sauce that dances on your taste buds. It all started when I was trying to find a healthy alternative to my favorite takeout. I wanted something that captured that unique sweet and sour flavor but without the heavy sugar and unhealthy additives. So, I rolled up my sleeves and got to work in the kitchen, and I have to say, the result was nothing short of amazing!

As the dish simmered, the aroma filled my home, bringing back memories of family dinners where we’d sit around the table, laughing and sharing stories. The vibrant colors of the fresh ingredients reminded me of summer, making it perfect for any time of year. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend, this Paleo Gluten Free Healthy Sweet and Sour Chicken fits beautifully. It’s a recipe that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart with every bite.

So, if you’re looking to impress your family or simply treat yourself to something delicious, look no further. This dish has it all: flavor, nutrition, and simplicity. Grab your apron and let’s dive into the steps to create this love-filled meal!

Everything You Need for Paleo Gluten Free Healthy Sweet and Sour Chicken

When it comes to preparing the Paleo Gluten Free Healthy Sweet and Sour Chicken, the ingredient philosophy revolves around freshness and health. Each component plays a vital role, from the tender chicken to the vibrant veggies and the tangy sauce, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. Here’s a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish shine:

• 1 teaspoon avocado oil: A healthy fat that boosts flavor and provides essential nutrients.
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced: Adds a zesty kick and enhances digestion.
• 1/2 large red pepper, chopped: Brings color and sweetness to the dish.
• 3/4 cup pineapple juice: The star of the sauce; provides natural sweetness and acidity.
• 1/2 tablespoon white vinegar: Balances the flavors in the sauce.
• 1/2 tablespoon tomato paste: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Infuses a subtle savory flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the taste with its aromatic qualities.
• 1 teaspoon tapioca starch: Helps thicken the sauce for a glossy finish.
• Sea salt: To taste; enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• 3 tablespoons tapioca starch: Used for coating the chicken, giving it a crispy texture.
• 1/2 pound chicken breast, pasture-raised: The protein base of this dish, ensuring quality and flavor.
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil: For frying the chicken, offering a healthy fat option.
• 1/2 cup pineapple tidbits, drained: Adds texture and bursts of sweetness.
• Cauliflower rice: A great low-carb alternative to serve as a base.
• Green onion: For garnish; adds freshness and color.
• Sesame seeds: A finishing touch that provides a delightful crunch.

Cooking Instructions for Paleo Gluten Free Healthy Sweet and Sour Chicken

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! The preparation of the Paleo Gluten Free Healthy Sweet and Sour Chicken is as joyful as the eating. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress.

1. Start by heating the avocado oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add in the ginger and red pepper. Cook these ingredients for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pepper begins to soften. You want the mixture to start releasing its delightful aroma, which sets the stage for the flavors to come.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together all the remaining sauce ingredients except the tapioca starch and sea salt. This includes the pineapple juice, white vinegar, tomato paste, onion powder, and garlic powder. Make sure it’s well combined. Once mixed, pour this sauce into the pan with the sautéed ginger and pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring it to a boil. Keep an eye on it as it heats up!

3. As the sauce comes to a boil, take a small bowl and combine 1 teaspoon of tapioca starch with 2 teaspoons of the hot sauce you’ve just made. Whisk this mixture until smooth, then pour it back into the pan while stirring constantly. This is where the magic happens! As you stir, the sauce will begin to thicken and become glossy. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes, but keep your eyes on it and taste for sea salt seasoning.

4. Once the sauce is ready, transfer it to a large bowl and cover it to keep warm. Now, let’s focus on the chicken. In a large Ziploc bag, place the 3 tablespoons of tapioca starch along with a pinch of sea salt. Add the chicken cubes to the bag and toss until they’re evenly coated. This coating is key for achieving that crispy exterior!

5. In the same large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add half of the coated chicken to the pan in a single layer, ensuring they’re not crowded. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is golden brown. You want a nice sear on the outside, which adds more flavor!

6. Once golden, flip the chicken pieces and repeat the cooking process on the other side. Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Repeat this process with the remaining oil and chicken until all are cooked and nicely browned.

7. Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked chicken to the bowl with the warm sauce and toss gently until the pieces are well coated. Then, fold in the pineapple tidbits to add bursts of sweetness. The sauce will cling beautifully to the chicken, creating a mouthwatering finish!

8. Finally, serve the Paleo Gluten Free Healthy Sweet and Sour Chicken over a bed of hot, cooked cauliflower rice. This substitutes perfectly for traditional rice and keeps the dish low-carb. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh green onion and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra touch of flavor and presentation!

Tips for Success

Cooking is an adventure, and with the right tips, you can make your experience even better. Here are some valuable insights to ensure your Paleo Gluten Free Healthy Sweet and Sour Chicken turns out perfect every time.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain the chicken’s texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken in the sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Customize the Sauce: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or even a hint of chili for a spicy kick!
• Meal Prep: This recipe is great for meal prep. Make a big batch and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Pairing Suggestions for Paleo Gluten Free Healthy Sweet and Sour Chicken

When serving the Paleo Gluten Free Healthy Sweet and Sour Chicken, the right pairings can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful suggestions:

• Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb alternative is perfect for soaking up the sweet and sour sauce.
• Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that adds nutrition and color to your plate.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.
• Quinoa: For a protein-packed side, serve the chicken over quinoa.
• Holidays and Gatherings: This dish makes a great centerpiece for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
• Seasonal Variations: In summer, add grilled vegetables for a fresh touch. In winter, consider a side of roasted winter veggies.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Paleo Gluten Free Healthy Sweet and Sour Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and health. This dish beautifully combines the tangy sweetness of pineapple with the savory goodness of chicken, creating a satisfying experience for your taste buds. I encourage you to give it a try and see how easy it is to prepare delicious, wholesome food at home. It’s a dish that brings joy to the table, and I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do.

Paleo Gluten Free Healthy Sweet and Sour Chicken

The ultimate comfort food with a healthy twist! This Paleo Gluten Free Healthy Sweet and Sour Chicken combines juicy chicken with a tangy sauce and sweet pineapple, creating a burst of flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it's both nutritious and delicious!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Paleo

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 teaspoon avocado oil
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger minced
• 1/2 large red pepper chopped
• 3/4 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1/2 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon tapioca starch
• Sea salt to taste
• 3 tablespoons tapioca starch
• Sea salt
• 1/2 pound chicken breast pasture-raised and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• 1/2 cup pineapple tidbits drained
• Cauliflower rice hot, cooked
• Green onion for garnish
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Skillet

Method

 

1. Start by heating the avocado oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once it's warm, add in the ginger and red pepper. Cook these ingredients for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pepper begins to soften. You want the mixture to start releasing its delightful aroma, which sets the stage for the flavors to come.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together all the remaining sauce ingredients except the tapioca starch and sea salt. This includes the pineapple juice, white vinegar, tomato paste, onion powder, and garlic powder. Make sure it's well combined. Once mixed, pour this sauce into the pan with the sautéed ginger and pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring it to a boil. Keep an eye on it as it heats up!
3. As the sauce comes to a boil, take a small bowl and combine 1 teaspoon of tapioca starch with 2 teaspoons of the hot sauce you've just made. Whisk this mixture until smooth, then pour it back into the pan while stirring constantly. This is where the magic happens! As you stir, the sauce will begin to thicken and become glossy. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes, but keep your eyes on it and taste for sea salt seasoning.
4. Once the sauce is ready, transfer it to a large bowl and cover it to keep warm. Now, let's focus on the chicken. In a large Ziploc bag, place the 3 tablespoons of tapioca starch along with a pinch of sea salt. Add the chicken cubes to the bag and toss until they're evenly coated. This coating is key for achieving that crispy exterior!
5. In the same large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add half of the coated chicken to the pan in a single layer, ensuring they’re not crowded. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is golden brown. You want a nice sear on the outside, which adds more flavor!
6. Once golden, flip the chicken pieces and repeat the cooking process on the other side. Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Repeat this process with the remaining oil and chicken until all are cooked and nicely browned.
7. Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked chicken to the bowl with the warm sauce and toss gently until the pieces are well coated. Then, fold in the pineapple tidbits to add bursts of sweetness. The sauce will cling beautifully to the chicken, creating a mouthwatering finish!
8. Finally, serve the Paleo Gluten Free Healthy Sweet and Sour Chicken over a bed of hot, cooked cauliflower rice. This substitutes perfectly for traditional rice and keeps the dish low-carb. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh green onion and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra touch of flavor and presentation!

Notes

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain the chicken's texture.

Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken in the sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Customize the Sauce: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or even a hint of chili for a spicy kick!

Meal Prep: This recipe is great for meal prep. Make a big batch and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

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Meet Naomi Prince

Cooking is about excitement, and I love taking simple ingredients and turning them into something bold. I work on every aspect of the blog, from brainstorming zesty new combinations to styling the final plate. I tested this recipe in my own home to guarantee it packs the perfect punch of flavor for you.