There is something absolutely irresistible about this Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe that makes it a staple in my kitchen. It perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors, creating a sticky, glossy sauce that clings to tender chicken pieces and crisp vegetables. Every bite bursts with a delightful harmony of textures and tastes, making it an easy favorite whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing friends with minimal fuss. This dish is a vibrant, flavorful celebration that brings a restaurant-worthy meal straight to your dining table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe lies in the simplicity and freshness of its ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building the vibrant flavors, from tender chicken to crunchy veggies and that signature sweet chili sauce that ties it all together.
- 1 pound chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and easy eating.
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce: The heart of the recipe, adding sweetness and just the right kick of spice.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: A depth-giving salty note that balances the sweet chili sauce perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce, giving it that lovely glossy finish.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Infuses the dish with its unmistakable aromatic warmth.
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger: Adds a fresh, zesty brightness that cuts through the richness.
- 1 bell pepper: Sliced for sweetness and a pop of color that makes the dish come alive.
- 1 cup broccoli florets: Provides a satisfying crunch and nutritional boost.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing, lending a subtle richness while keeping the chicken moist.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- Sesame seeds: For garnish, adding nutty crunch and visual appeal.
- Green onions: Sliced for garnish, bringing a fresh, oniony crispness to finish the dish.
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 until well combined. Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture, making sure every bite is coated generously. Letting the chicken marinate for 15 minutes allows those vibrant flavors to soak in deeply, leading to that unforgettable taste in the final dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the marinated chicken. Cook it for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces develop a nice golden-brown crust and are thoroughly cooked inside. This step ensures a juicy yet crispy exterior that makes every bite satisfying. Once done, transfer the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside for the next stage.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet adds depth of flavor from the chicken drippings. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger first, stirring quickly until you can smell their incredible aroma. Then, add the sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets. Sauté these vibrant veggies for 5 to 7 minutes until they turn tender but retain a delightful crunch. This balance of texture makes the dish wonderfully fresh and inviting.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet alongside the sautéed vegetables. Pour in any leftover marinade to boost the sauce’s richness. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat every piece beautifully. This final meld of flavors is what elevates the Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe into something truly special.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once off the heat, sprinkle the dish with toasted sesame seeds and freshly sliced green onions. These simple garnishes add texture and a burst of freshness, rounding off your dish with a perfect finish. Serve this delectable Sweet Chili Chicken hot over steamed rice or alongside noodles for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding sesame seeds and green onions isn’t just for looks. Sesame seeds contribute a gentle nuttiness and crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken and crisp veggies. Green onions bring a bright, fresh flavor that lifts the whole dish, making every bite vibrant and lively.
Side Dishes
This Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe pairs effortlessly with simple steamed jasmine rice or fluffy noodles, both of which soak up the luscious sauce perfectly. For a veggie-packed meal, serve with a light cucumber salad or roasted carrots to complement the dish’s sweet and spicy notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken and veggies nestled inside warm lettuce cups for a fresh, handheld option. You can also pile the chicken over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb version. Garnishing with crushed peanuts and a squeeze of lime adds new textures and zesty brightness, surprising and delighting your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Sweet Chili Chicken, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken and vegetables will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Sweet Chili Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure the dish is cooled completely before freezing to maintain its texture and flavor. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra sauce if needed to keep things moist. Using the stove helps preserve the crispy-tender texture better than microwaving, although the microwave remains a quick alternative when you’re in a rush.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are more forgiving and stay juicy even if cooked a bit longer. They add extra richness to the Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe and are a fantastic alternative.
How spicy is the Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe?
The sweetness of the chili sauce balances the heat, so it’s mildly spicy with a pleasant kick. If you prefer it spicier, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or fresh chopped chilies.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. Most sweet chili sauces are gluten-free but double-check the label to be sure.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can marinate the chicken a few hours in advance or even the day before. Just keep it refrigerated and covered. This helps deepen the flavors and saves time when it’s mealtime.
What’s the best way to get the sauce thick and glossy?
The cornstarch in the marinade is key for thickening. Make sure to stir the sauce well while cooking during the final steps, and don’t add too much liquid after combining the chicken and veggies to keep that perfect glossy texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the comfort and flavor of a well-made Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe. It’s bright, bold, and incredibly satisfying all at once. I genuinely can’t recommend this recipe enough for anyone who loves a quick, flavorful meal with a little sweet and spicy magic. Give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite—you’re going to love it as much as I do!
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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 sauce, soy sauce, and garlic, then cooked with crisp bell peppers and broccoli florets. Perfectly balanced with savory and sweet notes, this quick skillet meal is garnished with sesame seeds and green onions for an extra burst of flavor, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that’s both easy and delicious.
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
Aromatics and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
Other Ingredients
- 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.
- Cook Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are browned on the outside and cooked through, about 7 to 10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking briefly until fragrant. Then add the sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets. Sauté the vegetables for 5 to 7 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in any remaining marinade from the bowl. Stir and cook together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce slightly thickens.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish the dish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add some red chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies along with the garlic and ginger.
- You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles to make a complete meal.
- Make sure not to overcook the vegetables to retain their crunchiness and nutrients.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
