Name: Sweet Chili Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking); 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce; 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar (optional for extra sweetness); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated or minced; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar); 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat); Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional); Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

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Sweet Chili Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a hint of heat. The tender chicken pieces are coated in a sticky, tangy, and slightly spicy sweet chili sauce, making it an irresistible meal that’s perfect for dinner, a quick weeknight meal, or even as a party appetizer. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and can be served with a variety of sides like rice, noodles, or vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet Chili Chicken is a delightful fusion of flavors that creates a comforting yet exciting dish. The sweet chili sauce gives it a glossy, slightly spicy glaze, while the chicken stays juicy and tender. Whether you’re a fan of Asian-inspired cuisine or just looking for a dish that’s full of flavor with minimal effort, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. It’s simple to prepare, versatile, and easily customizable to suit your spice preferences.

Sweet Chili Chicken

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar (optional for extra sweetness)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated or minced
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should be 165°F or 74°C). Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
Make the Sweet Chili Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, honey (if using), and rice vinegar. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Coat the Chicken:
- Once the sauce has thickened, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the sauce and become glazed.
Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and freshly chopped cilantro over the chicken for a nice garnish (optional).
- Slice the chicken into strips or serve whole, and drizzle any remaining sauce from the pan over the top.
- Serve with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or your favorite side dish.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings and takes about 30-40 minutes to prepare, including cooking time for the chicken and making the sauce.

Variations

Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes, chopped fresh chili peppers, or a drizzle of sriracha sauce to the sweet chili sauce to increase the heat.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish. You can cook the tofu in a similar manner to the chicken for a crispy texture.
Gluten-Free Version: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free. Be sure the sweet chili sauce you use is gluten-free as well.
Add Vegetables: Toss in some sliced bell peppers, onions, or snap peas in the sauce to create a more complete dish with added vegetables.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover sweet chili chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and juicy, and they work perfectly with the sweet chili sauce.

Can I make the sweet chili sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just reheat it when you’re ready to use it.

Can I use store-bought sweet chili sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought sweet chili sauce is a quick and easy option. However, making your own sauce gives you more control over the sweetness and spice level.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer for a few extra minutes or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to thicken it up.

What can I serve this chicken with?

Sweet chili chicken pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, or sautéed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. You could also serve it on a bed of lettuce for a lighter meal.

Can I freeze the sweet chili chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in a slow cooker. Add the chicken breasts, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and other ingredients, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken with forks once cooked and stir it into the sauce.

Conclusion

Sweet Chili Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. With its perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, it’s the ideal recipe for a quick weeknight dinner, a family meal, or even for entertaining guests. Customize it with your favorite toppings, serve it with rice or vegetables, and enjoy this crowd-pleasing dish anytime you’re craving something full of flavor!

Jane