If you’re searching for a dish that packs a flavorful punch and comes together in no time, look no further than Sweet Chili Chicken. With a delightful blend of sweetness and spice, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Flavor Explosion: A combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that everyone loves.
- Versatile Dish: It can be served with rice, noodles, or just on its own!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with veggies and lean protein for a nutritious meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Sweet Chili Chicken lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient brings something vital to the table, from the tangy sweet chili sauce to the fresh crunch of bell peppers and broccoli.
- Chicken Breast: Use bite-sized pieces for quicker cooking and easier eating.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: The heart of the recipe, providing a sweet and spicy kick.
- Soy Sauce: Adds depth with its salty umami flavor.
- Cornstarch: Helps to thicken the sauce and gives the chicken a nice glaze.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing, offering a light, healthy fat base.
- Garlic and Ginger: The aromatic duo that lifts the dish with their fresh, zesty notes.
- Bell Pepper and Broccoli: Bring color, crunch, and nutrients to your meal.
- Sesame Seeds and Green Onions: For a traditional garnish that adds texture and a splash of color.
Variations
Don’t hesitate to personalize your Sweet Chili Chicken. Whether accommodating dietary needs or enhancing flavors, these variations will keep your culinary creativity flowing.
- Spicy Boost: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper or fresh chili slices for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Friendly: Swap chicken for tofu, following the same marination and cooking instructions.
- Low-Sodium: Use a low-sodium soy sauce without sacrificing flavor.
How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Toss the chicken pieces until they’re fully coated in this glossy, flavorful marinade. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to ensure every piece is infused with flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the marinated chicken. Cook until golden-brown and fully cooked through, approximately 7-10 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add garlic, ginger, bell pepper, and broccoli. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are brightly colored and tender-crisp.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the chicken to the skillet and pour in any remaining marinade. Stir everything together, letting the flavors meld and the sauce heat through for 2-3 additional minutes. Your Sweet Chili Chicken is ready to delight!
Pro Tips for Making Sweet Chili Chicken
- Marination Magic: Consider marinating the chicken overnight for deeper flavor infusion.
- Veggie Swap: Swap in your favorite seasonal veggies to keep the dish fresh and exciting.
- Pan Selection: Use a non-stick or well-seasoned cast iron skillet to beautifully brown the chicken.
- Balancing Heat: Adjust the chili sauce based on your spice tolerance to make it just right for your palate.
How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken
Garnishes
Finish your Sweet Chili Chicken with a scattering of sesame seeds for a delightful crunch and a sprinkle of sliced green onions to add a fresh, peppery note that enhances the overall flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with fluffy jasmine rice or a bowl of steaming noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. Roasted vegetables or a simple green salad can add freshness and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the Sweet Chili Chicken in lettuce cups or on skewers for an appetizer-style dish. Enhance the presentation with colorful, fresh garnishes for a feast for the eyes and palate!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Sweet Chili Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Seal the container properly to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to two months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, ensuring there’s minimal air inside to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating
Reheat your Sweet Chili Chicken gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of water or additional chili sauce to bring back the sauciness.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can. Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating for even cooking and flavor absorption.
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What can I use instead of sweet chili sauce?
You can substitute with a mix of honey and hot sauce if sweet chili sauce is unavailable, though it may alter the final flavor slightly.
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Is it possible to make this dish less spicy?
Absolutely! Reduce the amount of sweet chili sauce and replace it with a bit more soy sauce for a milder dish.
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Can I cook this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes, after marinating, place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Final Thoughts
Sweet Chili Chicken is a dish that’s as delectable as it is versatile, offering a scattering of flavors that are as colorful as a painter’s palette. Dive in and create this wonderful meal, which promises to tickle your taste buds and leave you calling for seconds! Enjoy this delightful recipe, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family.
Print
Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Description
This flavorful Sweet Chili Chicken combines tender bite-sized chicken pieces cooked to perfection in a sweet and spicy chili sauce, complemented by sautéed vegetables and garnished with sesame seeds and green onions for a vibrant, delicious meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 pound chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
Garnishes
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Green onions (sliced, for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, mix sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Add chicken pieces, toss to coat evenly, and let marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Cook Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook, stirring frequently, until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets, cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender but still vibrant and crisp.
- Combine and Heat: Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour any remaining marinade over the mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot, ideally over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sweet chili sauce according to your taste.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle with a little toasted sesame oil before serving.
- Can be made gluten-free by ensuring soy sauce is gluten-free.
- Can be prepared ahead and reheated; best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
