Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet Chili Chicken is an irresistible dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. This recipe brings together tender chicken, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, creating a burst of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Whether served as a main course or an appetizer, Sweet Chili Chicken will impress both family and guests alike. The versatility of this dish makes it easy to prepare for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Plus, the crispy, golden chicken coated in a flavorful glaze will leave everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients

• Chicken Breast: 1.5 to 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Sweet Chili Sauce: 1 cup (store-bought or homemade)

• Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons

• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced

• Ginger: 1 tablespoon, minced

• Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons

• Cornstarch: 1/4 cup

• Salt and Pepper: To taste

• Green Onions: 2, sliced (for garnish)

• Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon (for garnish)

• Rice or Noodles: For serving (jasmine rice, basmati rice, or noodles of your choice)

(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 sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and ensure they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.

2. Coating the Chicken: In another bowl, place the cornstarch and season with salt and pepper. Coat each marinated chicken piece in the cornstarch until evenly covered.

3. Cooking the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. If needed, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding.

4. Glazing the Chicken: After removing the chicken, add the remaining marinade to the skillet and simmer until it thickens into a glaze. Add the chicken back in and toss to coat evenly in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes.

5. Serving: Transfer the glazed chicken to a serving platter, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, and serve over jasmine rice, basmati rice, or noodles of your choice.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

• Total Time: 30-40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: For more heat, add a splash of sriracha or extra chili flakes to the sauce.

• Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, richer flavor.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version of this dish.

• Add Vegetables: Toss in sautéed bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added crunch and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the taste the next day.

• Freezing: Sweet Chili Chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet or microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist while reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for Sweet Chili Chicken?

Yes, chicken thighs will provide a juicier, more flavorful alternative.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add extra sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade or glaze for an added kick.

3. Can I make Sweet Chili Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time (up to 2 hours) and store it in the refrigerator. You can also store leftovers for up to 3-4 days.

4. Is Sweet Chili Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Sweet Chili Chicken is perfect for meal prep. Store it in airtight containers with your choice of rice or noodles for easy, reheatable lunches or dinners.

5. What kind of rice is best to serve with Sweet Chili Chicken?

Jasmine rice is a popular choice for its fragrant and slightly sticky texture, but basmati rice or noodles also work well.

6. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce to make Sweet Chili Chicken gluten-free.

7. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the coated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

8. Can I use homemade sweet chili sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade sweet chili sauce adds a personal touch and can be adjusted to your preferred level of sweetness and heat.

9. How do I keep the chicken crispy after cooking?

Make sure to drain the fried chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil. Also, serve immediately after glazing to maintain its crispy texture.

10. Can I serve Sweet Chili Chicken with a side of vegetables?

Yes, stir-fried or steamed vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas complement this dish well.

Conclusion

Sweet Chili Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken with a flavorful glaze of sweet chili sauce. With its perfect balance of heat and sweetness, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the crispiness of the chicken and the richness of the sauce served with your choice of rice or noodles for a satisfying and flavorful meal.