Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sweet Chili Chicken is the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and mildly spicy flavors, making it a dish that appeals to nearly everyone. The juicy chicken is coated in a sticky sweet chili glaze that caramelizes beautifully, offering both texture and flavor in every bite. This recipe works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a casual dinner party, as it can be paired with rice, noodles, or a variety of side dishes. The beauty of Sweet Chili Chicken lies in its simplicity—it comes together quickly with a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients, yet tastes like something from your favorite restaurant. Whether you enjoy bold flavors or prefer something balanced and comforting, this recipe satisfies both preferences. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and irresistible taste make it a staple recipe you’ll want to return to time and time again.
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Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful Dish You’ll Make Again and Again
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Crispy chicken coated in a sticky, sweet, and slightly spicy chili sauce, perfect for serving over rice or noodles for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Toss chicken pieces in cornstarch until fully coated, then dip in beaten eggs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger, sauté for 1 minute.
- Stir in sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with sauce.
- Cook for another 2–3 minutes until chicken is heated through and fully glazed.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- Pairs well with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
- You can use chicken thighs for juicier bites.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
The success of Sweet Chili Chicken comes down to the combination of fresh chicken, flavorful sauce, and supporting ingredients that add depth and balance. Let us break down each element:
Chicken breasts provide a lean, tender base that absorbs the sauce well while staying juicy when cooked properly.
Cornstarch coats the chicken pieces, helping them crisp up in the pan and ensuring the sauce clings to the chicken beautifully.
Vegetable oil is used for frying, giving the chicken a golden, crispy exterior without overpowering the dish’s flavor.
Garlic adds aromatic depth, balancing the sweetness of the sauce with savory notes that enhance the overall flavor profile.
Sweet chili sauce is the star ingredient, delivering that perfect sweet and spicy glaze that coats the chicken in irresistible stickiness.
Soy sauce brings a salty, umami depth to counter the sweetness, creating balance in the flavor.
Rice vinegar adds a gentle tanginess that brightens the dish, preventing it from becoming overly sweet.
Honey enhances the glaze, creating a silky-smooth texture and an added layer of natural sweetness.
Green onions provide freshness and color, making the dish visually appealing and adding a mild onion flavor.
Sesame seeds add a subtle nutty crunch, enhancing both the texture and presentation.
Directions
Start by preparing the chicken breasts by cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Coat the chicken with cornstarch until evenly covered. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Next, add the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey, stirring well to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens into a glossy glaze.
Return the chicken to the skillet and toss it thoroughly in the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Continue cooking for a few minutes until the chicken is heated through and the sauce clings perfectly.
Garnish the dish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving. Pair with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people comfortably. The preparation time is around 10 minutes, with an additional 20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have this flavorful Sweet Chili Chicken ready to serve in about 30 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Sweet Chili Chicken stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat for best results, as this helps maintain the chicken’s texture and keeps the glaze glossy. If using a microwave, reheat in short intervals, stirring in between to avoid uneven heating. For longer storage, the dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Kick – Add extra chili flakes or sriracha to intensify the heat.
Vegetable Boost – Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to increase nutrition and add color.
Different Protein – Swap chicken with shrimp, tofu, or pork for a twist on the original.
Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Baked Version – Instead of pan-frying, bake the coated chicken pieces for a lighter preparation.
Nutty Touch – Add roasted peanuts or cashews for added crunch and richness.
Citrus Brightness – A squeeze of lime juice over the finished dish can add freshness.
Herbal Twist – Garnish with cilantro or Thai basil for extra fragrance.
Low-Sugar Version – Replace honey with a sugar substitute to cut down on sweetness.
Asian Fusion Style – Serve the chicken in lettuce wraps or over fried rice for a restaurant-style twist.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly and add more juiciness to the dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, but it tastes best fresh. Store-bought sauce can be prepared in advance to save time.
What can I serve with Sweet Chili Chicken?
Rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables are excellent pairings.
Can I air-fry the chicken instead of frying in oil?
Yes, air frying is a healthier option that still provides crispiness.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the sweetness balances the spice, making it appealing for children.
Can I freeze Sweet Chili Chicken?
Yes, it can be frozen for up to 2 months in an airtight container.
How do I make the sauce less sweet?
Reduce the honey or add extra soy sauce and vinegar to balance the flavor.
Conclusion
Sweet Chili Chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy. Its quick preparation makes it ideal for weeknight dinners, while its bold flavors and appealing presentation make it suitable for entertaining guests. With simple ingredients and easy customization options, this recipe can be tailored to suit a wide variety of tastes and dietary needs. Whether you prepare it as a main course for family meals or as part of a larger spread, this dish promises satisfaction and is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
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