If you’re craving a dish that bursts with perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory, you’re going to absolutely love this Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe. It’s a vibrant, comforting meal that brings tender chicken and crisp veggies together in a luscious, sticky sauce that feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for friends, this dish hits all the right notes with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting all your ingredients together is a breeze, and each one plays a vital role in creating that irresistible Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe. From the juicy chicken to the crunchy vegetables and that sticky sauce, every element works in harmony.
- Chicken breast (1 pound): Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and perfect tenderness.
- Sweet chili sauce (1/2 cup): The star of the recipe, delivering just the right amount of sweetness and heat.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds depth of umami and saltiness to balance the sweetness.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Thickens the sauce beautifully, giving it that glossy finish.
- Minced garlic (1 tablespoon): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
- Minced ginger (1 teaspoon): Lends a subtle zing that brightens the flavor profile.
- Bell pepper (1, sliced): Brings vibrant color and crisp sweetness.
- Broccoli florets (1 cup): Adds a fresh, crunchy contrast and loads of nutrients.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For sizzling the chicken and veggies to perfection.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, seasoning everything just right.
- Sesame seeds: For garnish, adding a lovely nutty crunch.
- Green onions (sliced): A fresh, sharp touch to finish the dish.
How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and cornstarch in a bowl. Toss your chicken pieces in this mixture until each piece is well-coated. Letting the chicken marinate for 15 minutes is a game-changer, allowing the flavors to really soak in. This simple step builds the foundation for that signature sticky glaze.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook it, stirring occasionally, for about 7 to 10 minutes or until the pieces are beautifully browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside—don’t worry, we’ll bring it back shortly!
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking until they release their fragrant aromas—this usually takes about a minute. Then toss in the bell pepper slices and broccoli florets. Sauté these vibrant veggies for about 5 to 7 minutes, so they’re tender yet still have a pleasant crunch. These fresh flavors perfectly complement the coated chicken.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Vegetables
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with any leftover marinade from earlier. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. This final step lets the sauce thicken slightly, coating every piece of chicken and vegetable in glossy, spicy-sweet goodness.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is heated through and looking delicious, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top. These little touches add texture and a burst of freshness, turning this dish into a work of edible art.
How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t skip the sesame seeds and green onions! These simple garnishes lift the dish’s flavor and create a subtle contrast in textures. The sesame seeds add a nutty crunch while the green onions bring a mild sharpness that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
This Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy noodles to soak up the glorious sauce. You can also serve it with a crisp Asian slaw or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. Whatever you choose, the sauce will tie it all together beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, serve this dish family-style in a large bowl with chopsticks or forks nearby, encouraging everyone to dig in together. Or plate it over a colorful bed of spiralized veggies for a fresh, fun presentation. Wrapping the chicken and veggies in lettuce cups is another exciting way to enjoy the flavors with a crunchy, fresh bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which might be wishful thinking), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making your leftovers just as tasty as the fresh batch.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked Sweet Chili Chicken, but keep in mind that the vegetables may lose some crunch. For best results, freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the veggies. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating
When reheating, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of water if the sauce feels too thick. Avoid microwaving for too long to preserve the texture of the chicken and vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more juiciness and richness if you prefer. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
Is this recipe spicy?
The sweet chili sauce provides a mild heat combined with sweetness, making this dish flavorful but not overwhelming. You can easily adjust the spice by choosing a hotter chili sauce or adding fresh chili flakes.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative and ensure the sweet chili sauce you select is gluten-free. This keeps the recipe safe for those avoiding gluten.
What’s the best way to cut the vegetables?
Slicing the bell pepper into thin strips and breaking broccoli into small florets helps them cook evenly and remain pleasantly crisp, which is key to this dish’s texture.
Can I prepare this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for tofu or seitan, and make sure to use plant-based alternatives for the sauces. The technique and tasty sauce remain just as delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe is the kind of meal that feels like an instant classic—simple enough to whip up any night but impressive enough to share with guests. The combination of flavors and textures makes every bite a delight, and I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a favorite in your own kitchen!
Print
Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Sweet Chili Chicken recipe offers a delightful balance of spicy and sweet flavors combined with tender chicken and crisp vegetables, making it a quick and tasty meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.
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
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
Vegetables
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
Additional Ingredients and Garnishes
- 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 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 tender but still crisp.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in any remaining marinade. Stir and cook together for 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce slightly thickens.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles if desired.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes to maximize flavor infusion.
- Use fresh vegetables to maintain crispness after sautéing.
- Adjust the amount of sweet chili sauce if you prefer a milder or spicier taste.
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice or noodles to complete the meal.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce.
