Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet Chili Chicken is a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your dinner rotation. The combination of crispy chicken with a rich and flavorful glaze of sweet chili sauce is nothing short of irresistible. With the perfect balance of sweetness, heat, and savory goodness, this recipe brings together the best elements of Asian-inspired cuisine in a simple, easy-to-make dish. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Sweet Chili Chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, so you can serve it with rice, noodles, or even alongside vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1/4 cup cornstarch

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

• Rice or noodles (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.

2. Prepare the Coating: In another bowl, season the cornstarch with salt and pepper. Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and dredge each piece in the cornstarch, ensuring they are evenly coated.

3. Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking. Remove the chicken from the pan and drain on a plate lined with paper towels.

4. Glaze the Chicken: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining marinade. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Add the fried chicken back into the pan, tossing it in the glaze for 2-3 minutes to coat the chicken evenly.

5. Serve: Transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over jasmine rice, basmati rice, or your favorite noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add more heat: If you prefer a spicier version, add extra chili sauce, a splash of sriracha, or a chopped fresh chili to the glaze.

• Use thighs: For a juicier option, substitute the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs.

• Gluten-free: Swap the soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

• Add veggies: Serve with stir-fried vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and color.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavor continues to develop and will taste even better the next day.

• Freezing: You can freeze Sweet Chili Chicken for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture, or use the microwave for a quicker option. Cover with a lid to retain the chicken’s tenderness.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative. They are juicier and will give you a slightly different texture, but still delicious.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken for?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, marinate it for up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.

3. Can I use store-bought sweet chili sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought sweet chili sauce is a convenient option and will work perfectly in this recipe.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and marinate the chicken ahead of time, then cook it when you’re ready to serve.

5. Can I make Sweet Chili Chicken spicy?

Yes, you can adjust the spiciness by adding extra chili sauce or a bit of sriracha to the glaze.

6. How do I keep the chicken crispy?

To keep the chicken crispy, make sure not to overcrowd the pan while frying, and drain the cooked chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil.

7. Can I use other types of oil for frying?

Yes, vegetable oil works well, but you can also use canola oil or peanut oil for frying.

8. Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?

You can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free version or use coconut aminos as a soy-free alternative.

9. Can I serve this with vegetables?

Yes, Sweet Chili Chicken pairs perfectly with stir-fried or steamed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas.

10. How do I reheat leftover Sweet Chili Chicken?

Reheat the chicken in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, or use the microwave for a quick reheat.

Conclusion

Sweet Chili Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines the perfect balance of sweetness and heat. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and versatile variations, this recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a delicious and satisfying meal.