Delicious plate of Sweet Chili Chicken garnished with fresh herbs

Sweet Chili Chicken

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Sweet Chili Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the perfect mix of sweet and spicy flavors. It’s easy to make, and the combination of tender chicken coated in a sticky glaze makes it a favorite for families and gatherings. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.

How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken

Ingredients:

  • Chicken Breast: 1.5 to 2 pounds, boneless and skinless
  • Sweet Chili Sauce: 1 cup
  • Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
  • Ginger: 1 tablespoon, minced
  • Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Cornstarch: 1/4 cup
  • Salt and Pepper: to taste
  • Green Onions: 2, sliced
  • Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon
  • Rice or Noodles: for serving

Directions:

  1. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup Sweet Chili Sauce, Soy Sauce, minced Garlic, and minced Ginger. Add the chicken pieces and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for stronger flavor).
  3. In a separate bowl, place the cornstarch and lightly season with salt and pepper.
  4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess sauce drip off, then dredge each piece in the cornstarch to coat evenly.
  5. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the coated chicken in batches for about 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
  6. In the same skillet, pour in the remaining marinade and simmer until it thickens slightly to form a glaze. Return the fried chicken to the pan and toss to coat in the glaze, cooking an additional 2–3 minutes.
  7. Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, and serve over rice or noodles.

How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken

Serve Sweet Chili Chicken hot over a bed of rice or noodles. The sticky glaze pairs perfectly with both, making each bite flavor-filled. For extra crunch, you can add some stir-fried vegetables on the side.

How to Store Sweet Chili Chicken

You can store leftover Sweet Chili Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It lasts for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm.

Tips to Make Sweet Chili Chicken

  • Marinate Longer: For a deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate for up to 2 hours.
  • Adjust Spice: If you like things spicier, add some red pepper flakes to the marinade.
  • Try Different Proteins: This recipe also works great with shrimp or tofu for a different twist.

Variation

You can easily make a vegetarian version of Sweet Chili Chicken using tofu or seitan instead of chicken. Just follow the same steps for marinating and frying, adjusting cooking times as needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, frozen chicken can be used. Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.

2. What if I don’t have sweet chili sauce?
You can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts of honey and hot sauce for a similar sweet and spicy flavor.

3. Can I bake instead of fry the chicken?
Absolutely! For a healthier option, bake the coated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, until crispy and cooked through.