Sweet Chili Chicken

If you’re looking to add a punch of flavor to your weeknight dinners, this Sweet Chili Chicken is a vibrant, mouthwatering dish you’ll want to make again and again. Each bite bursts with tender pieces of chicken glazed in a glossy, tangy-sweet chili sauce, accompanied by colorful veggies that add both crunch and freshness. Whether you’re after a quick 30-minute meal or aiming to impress guests with bold, irresistible flavors, Sweet Chili Chicken delivers on all fronts—it’s the perfect marriage of savory, sweet, and just a hint of spice!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, focusing on ingredients that layer up flavor, color, and texture without any fuss. Each component has a special role to play, bringing their own unique magic to your Sweet Chili Chicken.

• Chicken breast: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and perfect saucy coating in every bite.
• Sweet chili sauce: The star of the dish—this brings the perfect balance of sweetness, mild heat, and a glossy finish that clings to the chicken.
• Soy sauce: Deepens the umami flavor and adds a wonderful savory undertone to counterbalance the sweetness.
• Cornstarch: Helps create that irresistible silky sauce and keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
• Olive oil: A neutral but flavorful oil that gives a golden sear to the chicken and adds subtle richness.
• Minced garlic: Adds aromatic, punchy flavor that infuses both the chicken and vegetables.
• Minced ginger: Brightens up the dish with a zesty, peppery note—a classic with sweet and savory sauces.
• Bell pepper: Sliced for color and sweetness, bell pepper also provides a welcome crunch.
• Broccoli florets: Fresh and vibrant, broccoli soaks up sauce and adds nutrition and bite.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhance and round out all the other flavors.
• Sesame seeds: Nutty and visually striking, these are the perfect finishing touch as a garnish.
• Green onions: For garnish, sliced green onions add sharpness and a pop of color right at the end.

How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together your sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and cornstarch in a medium bowl. Add in the chicken breast pieces, tossing them thoroughly to coat every morsel in the marinade. This quick soak (just 15 minutes!) locks in moisture and infuses the chicken with flavor, setting the stage for a truly amazing Sweet Chili Chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken, spreading it out in a single layer so it browns beautifully. Cook for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are golden and cooked through. Don’t rush this part—the light sear brings out savory depth. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet you used for the chicken (no need to clean it; those flavorful bits just add more taste!), add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant, then add in the sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 5 to 7 minutes, letting the veggies get tender but crisp—perfect for soaking up the sauce.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken and any juices to the skillet. Pour any remaining marinade over the top. Toss everything together and let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, so the chicken and vegetables are fully coated in that luscious sweet chili glaze. The aroma at this point will be absolutely irresistible!

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once everything is hot and the sauce glistens, turn off the heat. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving. This final touch brings in crunch, color, and just enough bite to make your Sweet Chili Chicken look as good as it tastes.

How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds instantly elevates the dish, adding both a nutty note and delightful texture. For even more pop, scatter sliced green onions over the top—they bring brightness and a fresh finish that really complements the tangy-sweet chili sauce.

Side Dishes

Sweet Chili Chicken pairs incredibly well with a bowl of fluffy steamed jasmine rice or tender noodles—the sauce soaks right in, making every bite extra comforting. For something lighter, try serving it over cauliflower rice or a crisp green salad. Don’t forget some quick-pickled cucumbers or a wedge of lime for contrast!

Creative Ways to Present

Turn it into a fun build-your-own rice bowl with extra veggies, lettuce wraps for a lighter meal, or even fill a warm pita with Sweet Chili Chicken for an unexpected, fusion-inspired sandwich. You can also skewer the chicken for party-friendly bites or serve it atop Asian-style slaw for a colorful, crunchy plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, so your Sweet Chili Chicken may taste even better as lunch the next day! Just make sure it cools to room temperature before packing it away.

Freezing

If you’d like to make extra for another time, Sweet Chili Chicken freezes quite well. Let everything cool completely, then transfer to freezer bags or containers (preferably portioned for easy reheating). Freeze for up to 2 months, but skip garnishing with fresh onions and sesame seeds until after you’ve reheated.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Sweet Chili Chicken gently in a skillet over medium low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce seems too thick. The microwave works too, just use medium power and cover loosely, stirring halfway. Don’t forget to freshen it up with a sprinkle of new sesame seeds and green onions before serving again.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are naturally juicy and flavorful. They work beautifully in Sweet Chili Chicken, staying tender and soaking up sauce just as well, if not better, than chicken breast.

Is this dish spicy?

Sweet Chili Chicken is more sweet and tangy than spicy. Store-bought sweet chili sauce is quite mild, but if you love heat, feel free to add a dash of chili flakes or sliced fresh chili to the marinade or while stir frying.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! This recipe is flexible. Try snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, or even baby corn—just chop them to similar sizes for even cooking and toss them in with the bell pepper and broccoli.

What’s the best way to make this gluten free?

Simply swap the regular soy sauce for tamari or a certified gluten free soy sauce and double check your sweet chili sauce label. All other ingredients are naturally gluten free, making this dish easy to adapt.

Can I make Sweet Chili Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! The chicken and sauce can be cooked, cooled, and stored for up to two days. Reheat just before serving and add fresh garnishes to brighten things back up. Meal prep perfection!

Final Thoughts

If you’re dreaming of a dish that’s vibrant, full of flavor, and so simple to prepare, I hope you’ll give this Sweet Chili Chicken a try. It’s quickly become a household favorite in my kitchen, and I can’t wait for you to experience all its sweet, savory, and just-right spicy magic!

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