© Original recipe by Serena Miller ©
Sweet Chili Chicken Dinner Delight 🍗🌶️✨
1. Introduction
Welcome to a mouthwatering journey with our Sweet Chili Chicken recipe, a spice-infused dish that combines the perfect balance of sweetness and heat. This easy chicken dinner is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. The flavorful, tender chicken coated in a luscious spicy-sweet chili sauce makes it a favorite for everyone in the family. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this spicy chicken recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare.
2. Ingredients Needed for Sweet Chili Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce (preferably homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of sesame oil or chili flakes for more heat.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Sweet Chili Chicken
Preparation of the Chicken
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces or strips, season lightly with salt and pepper, and set aside.
Making the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, honey, and rice vinegar. For a thicker sauce, stir in cornstarch dissolved in a little water.
Searing the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Cooking the Chicken with Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat all pieces evenly. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Serving Your Spicy Chicken
Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or with your favorite vegetables. For an added crispy texture, consider serving with a side of crispy roasted veggies.
4. Tips for Perfect Sweet Chili Chicken
- Adjust the level of spice by adding chili flakes or fresh chilies.
- If you prefer a crispy coating, batter the chicken in egg and cornstarch before cooking.
- Use high-quality sweet chili sauce for the best flavor.
- For a healthier version, bake or air fry the chicken instead of frying.
5. Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftover Sweet Chili Chicken
Leftover sweet chili chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making it even tastier the next day.
6. Delicious Serving Suggestions for This Spicy Chicken Recipe
This easy chicken dinner pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or sticky rice. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad. Want to add an extra crunch? Top with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts.
For more quick meal ideas, don’t forget to check our breakfast bake idea for delicious mornings or explore the sweet treats for dessert.
7. FAQs about Sweet Chili Chicken
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, both work well, but chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Adjust cooking time accordingly if using chicken breasts.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be, if you use gluten-free soy sauce and sweet chili sauce. Always check labels to ensure the sauces are gluten-free.
How long does it take to prepare this spicy chicken recipe?
From start to finish, it takes approximately 30 minutes, making it an easy chicken dinner for busy nights.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, and ensure your sauces are vegan-friendly.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for making crispy chicken with less oil and faster cooking time.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures even cooking and easy cleanup for all your stir-fry dishes.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: An all-in-one device to cook your chicken to perfection with ease.
Using quality kitchen tools can dramatically enhance your cooking experience and help you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.
9. Conclusion
Introducing Sweet Chili Chicken into your weekly menu is a fantastic way to enjoy a spicy, sweet, and savory meal that pleases everyone at the dinner table. Its simple preparation, combined with vibrant flavors, makes it a go-to for any occasion. Whether served over rice, noodles, or with vegetables, this easy chicken dinner will become a staple in your recipe collection. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and indulge in this irresistible spicy chicken recipe today!
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Sweet Chili Chicken Dinner Delight
A flavorful, crispy chicken dish coated in vibrant sweet chili sauce, garnished with green onions and red pepper flakes, perfect for an easy dinner.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 1–2 red chili peppers, sliced (optional for heat)
- Chopped green onions and red chili flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Coat chicken pieces with cornstarch and fry until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add cooked chicken to the sauce, toss to coat evenly, and simmer for another 2 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and red chili flakes for extra spice and color.
Notes
- For extra crunch, double coat chicken in cornstarch before frying.
- Adjust chili peppers based on spice preference.
- Best enjoyed fresh for crispy texture and bold flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Frying, simmering
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten-Free (use gluten-free soy sauce)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 320 Kcal
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 75mg

