Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe

Looking to liven up your weeknight dinner and wake up your taste buds? This Sweet Chili Chicken is the ultimate combination of juicy, golden chicken tossed in a glossy, sweet-meets-spicy sauce, all mingling with crisp veggies. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a meal that’s as eye-catching as it is crave-worthy—perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something irresistibly good.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Sweet Chili Chicken is that you don’t need anything fancy—just a handful of everyday ingredients that each play an important role, from delivering bold flavors to giving the dish its signature glossy look and tender texture.

• Chicken breast (1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces): Lean, tender, and perfect for soaking up all that sauce.
• Sweet chili sauce (1/2 cup): The magic ingredient—sweet, tangy, and a little spicy, it brings the whole dish together.
• Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds savory, umami depth that makes the flavors pop.
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Helps the marinade cling to the chicken, keeping it juicy and helping the sauce thicken.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing, giving the chicken a lovely golden sear.
• Minced garlic (1 tablespoon): Infuses every bite with aromatic flavor (freshly minced is best!).
• Ginger (1 teaspoon, minced): Brightens the dish with a subtle zing and warmth.
• Bell pepper (1, sliced): Adds color and sweet, mellow crunch.
• Broccoli florets (1 cup): Brings freshness and a satisfying bite (plus, extra greens!).
• Salt and pepper: To taste—season as you go for the perfect flavor balance.
• Sesame seeds: For garnish; they add a nutty, toasty finish.
• Green onions (sliced): Sprinkled on top for color, freshness, and a gentle oniony bite.

Variations

One of the best things about Sweet Chili Chicken is how easy it is to adapt. Don’t be afraid to mix things up based on what you’ve got on hand, your favorite flavors, or any dietary needs—this recipe welcomes creativity!

• Swap the Protein: Try boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness, or use tofu or shrimp for a different twist.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in snap peas, carrots, or baby corn for extra crunch and color.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Just use tamari or coconut aminos in place of regular soy sauce.
• Dial Up the Heat: Stir in a little sriracha or scatter sliced fresh chilis on top for true spice lovers.

How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Add the chopped chicken pieces and toss until every piece is well coated. Let the chicken marinate for about 15 minutes—this quick soak locks in flavor and helps keep the chicken super tender as it cooks.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it’s golden on the edges and cooked through, roughly 7–10 minutes. For the best texture, avoid overcrowding the pan, and give the chicken a good toss every so often. Once done, transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Using the same skillet (don’t wipe it out—those bits are packed with flavor!), add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds, then add the sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets. Stir and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the veggies are just tender and vibrant.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Return the chicken to the skillet, along with any juices on the plate. Pour any remaining marinade over the top, then stir everything together. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, letting the sauce bubble and coat every piece. Finish with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Transfer your Sweet Chili Chicken to a serving platter or straight onto a bed of hot steamed rice. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and freshly sliced green onions for a final flourish before digging in!

How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken

Garnishes

Don’t be shy with the finishing touches! A scattering of toasted sesame seeds brings a subtle nuttiness, while vibrant green onions or cilantro brighten the plate (and your palate). For extra color, a few paper-thin slices of red chile or a drizzle of extra sauce will have your Sweet Chili Chicken looking restaurant-ready.

Side Dishes

Sweet Chili Chicken is lovely perched atop fluffy jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up every drop of that luscious sauce. If you want to keep things light, try serving it with cauliflower rice or wrap it in crisp lettuce leaves for a fun twist. A side of steamed edamame or a shredded carrot salad makes it a vibrant, balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the bowl! Pile the chicken and veggies into warm flatbreads for a modern wrap, or spoon over Asian-style noodles for a slurp-worthy dinner. For parties, serve Sweet Chili Chicken skewered on toothpicks or nestled in lettuce cups for a bite-sized, crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), store the Sweet Chili Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen after a night’s rest, making the next-day bites even more irresistible!

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Simply let everything cool completely, then portion the chicken and veggies into freezer-safe containers or bags. It’ll keep its flavor and texture for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or extra sweet chili sauce to loosen the glaze if needed. You can also microwave individual servings; just cover loosely to retain moisture and avoid overcooking the chicken.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Chili Chicken is my go-to for those nights when I want something fresh, colorful, and utterly delicious—without spending hours in the kitchen. I hope it becomes a staple at your table too. Grab your skillet, whip up a batch, and discover just how fun dinnertime can be!

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