Dehydrated Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

Why Dehydrated Sweet and Sour Chicken is Perfect for Hikers

Sweet and Sour Chicken combines carbohydrates, protein, and a mix of sweet and tangy flavours to keep you energised and satisfied during a long hike. The chicken provides much-needed protein for muscle repair, while the rice offers slow-burning energy. The sweet and sour sauce adds a burst of flavour and quick-releasing sugars for an energy boost. This lightweight meal is easy to pack, rehydrate, and enjoy, making it ideal for overnight or multi-day bushwalking trips.

What You’ll Need (Serves 1)

Base Ingredients

• 1/2 cup cooked rice (white or jasmine rice works well)
• 1/4 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

Vegetables

• 1/4 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., capsicum, pineapple, carrot, onion)

Sauce Flavours

• 2 tablespoons sweet and sour sauce (or dehydrated sweet and sour powder, if available)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder

How to Prepare at Home

1. Cook the rice according to the package instructions and allow it to cool completely.
2. Cook the chicken until fully done, then shred or dice it into small pieces.
3. Lightly steam or blanch the vegetables to soften them slightly before dehydration.
4. In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, chicken, and vegetables.
5. Stir in the sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ginger powder to coat everything evenly.

Dehydration Process

1. Spread the mixture evenly on dehydrator trays lined with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
2. Dehydrate at 60°C (140°F) for 8–12 hours, rotating trays halfway through for consistent drying.
3. Ensure the chicken is brittle, the rice is completely dry, and the vegetables have no remaining moisture.

Storage Tips

Storage times of up to 6 months in an airtight container and up to 1 year in the freezer are generally accurate for dehydrated meals when properly dried and stored. However, a few factors can impact the longevity:

• Dehydration Quality: If all moisture is thoroughly removed, the meal is less likely to spoil or develop mold.
• Storage Conditions: Airtight packaging (vacuum sealing is ideal) and storing in a cool, dark, dry place will help extend shelf life.
• Ingredients Used: While couscous and chickpeas are relatively stable, if you’re using additional ingredients like olive oil or feta, be aware they may shorten the shelf life.
• Oxygen and Moisture Exposure: Using oxygen absorbers in vacuum-sealed bags can help prolong the storage life, especially for long-term storage.

If unsure, freezing is the safest long-term option. Some sources may recommend shorter storage times to account for potential moisture retention or imperfect dehydration.

For best results, if your Sweet and Sour Chicken is properly dehydrated, vacuum-sealed, and stored in a cool, dry place, 6 months is a reasonable timeframe. If frozen, it can last for a year or longer. If stored in less ideal conditions (such as a basic container at room temperature), expect the shelf life to be a few weeks to a couple of months.

Rehydrating on the Trail

For the best quality and safety, always check for signs of spoilage (off smells, discoloration, or moisture buildup) before rehydrating.

1. Boil 1.5 cups of water using your hiking stove. Adjust the water quantity depending on how thick or soupy you want the meal.
2. Pour the hot water into the container or pot with the dehydrated meal. Stir to combine and ensure all ingredients are submerged.
3. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even hydration.
4. Check that the chicken, rice, and vegetables are fully rehydrated before eating.

Final Thoughts

Dehydrated Sweet and Sour Chicken is a flavourful, balanced meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for bushwalking adventures. Its mix of carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables ensures you stay nourished and energised for your journey. By preparing it at home, you’ll have a convenient, lightweight dinner ready to enjoy on the trail.

For more inspiration and meal ideas, visit my page on Hiking Food Tips and Ideas.