Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and spicy flavors that makes Sweet Chili Chicken an instant family favorite. Just imagine tender, juicy chicken bites tossed in a sticky, garlicky sauce, with crisp veggies and all the vibrant colors you could hope for on your dinner plate. This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, yet tastes like something you’d get at your favorite takeout spot. If you’ve never made Sweet Chili Chicken at home, get ready for a delightful surprise—this dish takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a restaurant-worthy dinner you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sweet Chili Chicken shines through its easy-to-find, everyday ingredients, each bringing a punch of flavor or color to the table. Every component is chosen specifically to balance sweet, savory, and just a hint of heat for that irresistible finish.

• Chicken breast: Tender, lean protein that absorbs marinades beautifully and cooks up juicy every time.
• Sweet chili sauce: The star of the show, providing that perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and just a touch of heat.
• Soy sauce: Adds a savory backbone and just the right amount of saltiness to the dish.
• Cornstarch: Essential for getting that gorgeous glossy coating on the chicken and locking in moisture.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and veggies while adding a hint of richness.
• Minced garlic: Delivers aromatic depth with a punchy, savory flavor.
• Ginger (minced): Adds brightness and a subtle zing that cuts through the sweetness.
• Bell pepper: Brings crunch, color, and a touch of natural sweetness.
• Broccoli florets: Balances the dish with earthy, slightly bitter notes and vibrant green color.
• Salt and pepper: Classic seasonings to taste, ensuring everything is perfectly balanced.
• Sesame seeds: A cheerful garnish that adds a pop of nuttiness and crunch.
• Green onions: For a fresh, zesty finish that brightens up each bite.

How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by giving your chicken a quick bath in flavor. In a bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and cornstarch until smooth. Add the bite-sized chicken breast pieces and toss until every piece is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes—this step infuses the chicken with deliciousness and also ensures that addictively tender texture.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in an even layer. Let them sear, undisturbed, for a couple minutes so they get that beautiful golden color. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for about 7-10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly crispy on the edges. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside—you want to keep those juicy bites perfectly cooked.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Using the same skillet (all those tasty browned bits left behind are flavor gold!), add the minced garlic, ginger, sliced bell pepper, and broccoli florets. Sauté everything together for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until the veggies become tender but still have a little crunch. That combination of aromatic garlic and ginger mingling with fresh veggies? Absolutely irresistible.

Step 4: Bring it All Together

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with any leftover marinade. Toss everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly and coat every piece beautifully. This extra bit of heat lets the flavors meld and ensures a mouthwatering glossy finish on the Sweet Chili Chicken.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Before serving, sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and plenty of sliced green onions. These little touches transform your dish into something you’d be proud to set down for any occasion. Your Sweet Chili Chicken is officially ready for the spotlight!

How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken

Garnishes

Don’t skip the final flourish: a scattering of sesame seeds and a handful of sliced green onions really makes the Sweet Chili Chicken pop, adding both flavor and an appealing crunch. For a zingy twist, add a few thin slices of fresh red chili or a wedge of lime on the side.

Side Dishes

This vibrant chicken is a superstar with fluffy jasmine rice or sticky white rice, which soaks up all that beautiful sauce. If you want to mix things up, spoon your Sweet Chili Chicken over noodles, or even scoop it into lettuce cups for a lighter, hands-on approach. For extra veggies, a crisp Asian slaw or a quick cucumber salad works wonders.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond the bowl by serving Sweet Chili Chicken as part of a DIY rice bowl bar at your next gathering, letting everyone add extra toppings as they please. Tucked inside lettuce wraps, piled high on steamed bao buns, or even turned into a hearty wrap with tortillas—this dish adapts deliciously to whatever mood or occasion you’re celebrating.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Sweet Chili Chicken keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The sauce continues to infuse the chicken and veggies, which means each reheated bite is just as flavorful as the first time around.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze a batch for future cravings, simply cool the cooked chicken and veggies completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Sweet Chili Chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce seems thick. Alternatively, you can gently microwave individual portions, covering them loosely to retain moisture. Just be careful not to overcook the chicken so it stays tender and juicy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast for Sweet Chili Chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will be even juicier and slightly richer, making them a perfect fit for Sweet Chili Chicken. Just make sure to cook them until they’re fully done, and cut them into bite-sized pieces so the sauce coats every morsel.

Is this dish very spicy?

Sweet Chili Chicken gets its signature flavor from the sweet chili sauce, which is only mildly spicy. If you’d like more heat, add freshly sliced chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet when sautéing the vegetables.

How do I make Sweet Chili Chicken gluten-free?

Simply swap in a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and double-check that your sweet chili sauce is gluten-free (most brands are, but it’s always best to check the label). That way, everyone can dig in happily!

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen broccoli and sliced peppers work beautifully here. Add them directly to the skillet and sauté as usual—just note that they might release a bit more moisture, so cook for an extra minute or two if needed.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?

If your sauce is thicker than you’d like, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for an extra couple of minutes, or mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it in to thicken quickly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a quick, flavor-packed meal that brings smiles all around the table, Sweet Chili Chicken will never disappoint. It’s simple, stunning, and endlessly customizable—guaranteed to make even busy weeknights feel a little more special. Give it a try, and let this sweet-and-savory delight become your new go-to!

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