Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe - Quick & Delicious

If you’re on the lookout for a delicious weeknight dinner that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than Sweet Chili Chicken! This dish features crispy, golden chicken pieces coated in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy chili sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, it’s a delightful recipe that delivers on both flavor and presentation. Not only is it quick to whip up—taking around 30 to 35 minutes from start to finish—but it’s also gluten-free, making it a perfect meal option for those with dietary restrictions. Plus, the combination of sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and fresh garlic creates a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Pair it with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

500 g (1 lb) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
Salt and pepper, to taste
2–3 tbsp vegetable oil (for pan-frying)
1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp grated ginger (optional)
1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

To start, season your chicken pieces with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor. In a medium bowl, mix together the cornstarch and flour until well combined. In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. Now, take each piece of chicken and first dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. After that, roll the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks well.

Next, heat up vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each piece for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. When done, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil, keeping them crispy.

Now it’s time to create that irresistible sauce! Carefully remove most of the oil from the skillet, leaving only about a tablespoon behind. Add the minced garlic and, if you choose to, the grated ginger. Sauté them for roughly a minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. Then, pour in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Finally, return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the sauce. Allow the chicken and sauce to cook together for an additional 2 minutes, making sure the chicken is heated through and glossy with the sweet chili sauce.

To finish off, garnish your delicious Sweet Chili Chicken with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or fresh cilantro. This dish is best served over a bed of steamed rice, noodles, or with a side of stir-fried vegetables to balance out the flavors.

Variations

While Sweet Chili Chicken is absolutely delightful as is, there are plenty of variations you can try to customize the dish to your taste. For a spicier kick, consider adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce. If you prefer a different flavor profile, you could swap out the soy sauce for tamari for a gluten-free alternative, or use coconut aminos for a soy-free option.

You could also experiment with different proteins; try using shrimp, tofu, or even beef instead of chicken. Additionally, incorporating colorful vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli during the cooking process can add not only nutrition but also vibrant colors to your dish, making it visually appealing.

Cooking Notes

To ensure your Sweet Chili Chicken comes out perfectly every time, here are a few cooking notes to keep in mind:

Cook Time: The actual cooking time may vary depending on your stove and the size of your chicken pieces. Always ensure they are well-cooked (minimum internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
Tools: A large skillet is ideal for this recipe, but a wok would also work great, especially if you’re adding vegetables.
Prep Tips: If you’re short on time, you can marinate the chicken pieces in the sauces for about 30 minutes beforehand to enhance the flavors even more.
Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but for the best texture, it’s recommended to reheat in the oven or on the stovetop rather than the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant Sweet Chili Chicken dish can be served in various ways. For a simple yet satisfying meal, serve it over steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice. Alternatively, you can present it atop a bed of noodles, allowing the delicious sauce to soak into every strand. If you’re looking to add more crunch and freshness, serve alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Feel free to drizzle extra sweet chili sauce on top for an added layer of flavor to your plate.

Tips

For an even crispier chicken, consider double-coating the chicken pieces by repeating the egg and flour coating step.
Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken by testing with a small piece; it should sizzle immediately.
If you prefer your sauce to be sweeter, adjust the amount of honey or brown sugar to taste.
Have leftover sauce? It pairs well with vegetables or can be used as a marinade for other proteins!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 400

Protein: 30g

Sodium: 900mg

FAQs

Can I make this dish in advance?
While Sweet Chili Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare certain components ahead of time. For instance, you can marinate the chicken a few hours before cooking or make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

What can I substitute for sweet chili sauce?
If you don’t have sweet chili sauce on hand, you can mix equal parts of ketchup and honey plus a dash of hot sauce for a quick alternative.

Is this dish spicy?
The spiciness level is mild to medium depending on how much red pepper flakes you choose to add. For a milder version, simply omit the red pepper flakes.

What can I serve alongside Sweet Chili Chicken?
It pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or fresh vegetables. A light cucumber salad or stir-fried veggies balance the sweetness of the chicken.

Can I bake Sweet Chili Chicken instead of frying it?
Yes! For a healthier option, you can bake the coated chicken pieces in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion

Sweet Chili Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience packed with vibrant flavors and textures. With its crispy exterior and perfectly sticky sauce, it’s bound to steal the spotlight at your dinner table. Don’t hesitate to get creative with this recipe; involve your family and friends in the cooking process or share your own variations! We’d love to hear your thoughts and any further suggestions in the comments section below. If you try this recipe and love it, please share it with your friends and family to spread the deliciousness of Sweet Chili Chicken. Happy cooking!