If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavor and satisfying texture, this Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe is exactly what your weeknight dinners have been missing. Tender chicken breast pieces are bathed in a luscious sweet chili sauce, perfectly balanced by savory soy, fragrant garlic, and a hint of fresh ginger. Tossed with crisp bell peppers and broccoli, this dish is as colorful as it is delicious. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly versatile, and will soon become one of your all-time favorites to whip up when you want a meal that feels both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe is a breeze. Each component is simple yet essential, working harmoniously to create layers of flavor, beautiful color, and satisfying textures that make this dish shine on your plate.
- Chicken breast (1 pound): Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and perfect sauce absorption.
- Sweet chili sauce (1/2 cup): Provides the signature sweet-heat flavor that defines the dish.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds a savory umami depth that balances the sweetness.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Helps thicken the sauce and gives it a silky texture.
- Minced garlic (1 tablespoon): Brings a warm, aromatic kick that elevates the savory notes.
- Minced ginger (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle zing and fresh fragrance.
- Bell pepper (1, sliced): Adds color and a slight natural sweetness with a satisfying crunch.
- Broccoli florets (1 cup): Bring vibrant green color and a nutritious, crisp bite.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Used for cooking and providing a light richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- Sesame seeds: For garnish, adding a delicate nutty crunch.
- Green onions, sliced: Fresh and bright garnish to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and cornstarch in a bowl. Toss your bite-sized chicken pieces into this flavorful mixture and make sure each piece is well coated. Letting the chicken marinate for about 15 minutes gives the sauce time to really seep in, ensuring every bite bursts with delicious flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook them for about 7 to 10 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown exterior and are cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside — you’re almost there.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and ginger and cook just until fragrant, releasing those mouthwatering aromas that make your kitchen smell irresistible. Then toss in the sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets. Sauté these vibrant veggies until they’re tender but still hold a little crispness— usually about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return your luscious chicken back to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in any leftover marinade from earlier to boost the flavor even more. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. This step allows the sauce to thicken slightly and coat every piece lovingly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Off the heat, sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over your Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe. This simple garnish adds a beautiful finish — a pop of color, flavor, and texture that takes the dish from great to unforgettable. Serve it hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding sesame seeds and green onions at the end isn’t just for looks; they deliver a subtle nutty crunch and fresh zest that brighten every mouthful. You can also sprinkle some crushed peanuts or fresh cilantro if you want to experiment with textures and flavors.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with plain steamed jasmine rice or fluffy noodles, which are perfect for soaking up the sweet and savory sauce. For a lighter option, try serving it alongside a fresh Asian slaw or a simple steamed vegetable medley.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or just jazz up your dinner? Serve your Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe in mini lettuce cups for a fun, handheld appetizer or arrange the chicken and veggies over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that still packs plenty of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your Sweet Chili Chicken cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerated, it stays fresh up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later on.
Freezing
If you want to keep the dish longer, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled Sweet Chili Chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave it in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce looks too thick.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add extra tenderness to the dish. Just keep in mind they may require a couple more minutes to cook through.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe?
Yes! Simply swap the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh. Press and cube firm tofu, then marinate and cook it just like the chicken for a delicious plant-based alternative.
How spicy is this Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe?
This recipe leans towards a mild to medium spice level thanks to the sweet chili sauce, which balances heat with sweetness. If you prefer more kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh chopped chili.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken a few hours in advance, which actually enhances the flavor. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to cook the chicken and vegetables fresh before serving.
What’s the best way to thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
If your sauce needs thickening, mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in while simmering briefly until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients come together to create something truly special. It’s quick, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable to your mood or pantry. I can’t wait for you to try it and add it to your regular cooking rotation — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Sweet Chili Chicken recipe features tender chicken breast pieces marinated in a flavorful blend of sweet chili and soy sauce, then sautéed with fresh bell peppers and broccoli. The dish is garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, offering a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes in just 30 minutes. Ideal for a quick, vibrant weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
Cooking and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Green onions, sliced for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Add the chicken pieces and toss well to coat evenly. Allow the chicken to marinate for 15 minutes to let the flavors infuse thoroughly.
- Cook Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on the outside and cooked through, about 7 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook briefly until fragrant, roughly 30 seconds. Add the sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets, sautéing the vegetables for 5 to 7 minutes until tender yet crisp, seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in any remaining marinade from the bowl. Stir to combine everything well and cook together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens and everything is heated through.
- Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken improves flavor and tenderness.
- You can adjust the spiciness by choosing a milder or hotter sweet chili sauce.
- For gluten-free, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
- Cook vegetables just until tender to maintain their crispness and nutrients.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a fulfilling meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
