Sweet Chili Chicken is a delicious dish that perfectly balances the heat from chili with a touch of sweetness. The chicken gets a nice crispy outside while staying juicy on the inside, thanks to a sticky sauce made from sweet chili sauce, garlic, and a bit of soy. It’s one of those meals that feels both fresh and comforting at the same time.
I love making this recipe when I want something quick but special. It’s so easy to prepare and the sauce comes together fast, which means less time cooking and more time enjoying. I usually toss in some sliced bell peppers or green onions to add a bit of crunch and color—it really brightens up the plate.
My favorite way to serve Sweet Chili Chicken is over a bowl of steamed rice, with a side of crunchy lettuce or cucumber salad. It’s the perfect combo of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors that makes everyone at the table ask for seconds. Plus, it’s a great dish to make for weeknight dinners when you want something tasty but simple.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great here because they cook quickly and stay tender. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds the main flavor and balance of sweet and spicy. If you don’t have this, mix chili sauce or hot sauce with a bit of honey or sugar.
Soy Sauce: A good source of saltiness and umami. Low-sodium soy sauce works well if you want less salt. You can substitute with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Honey or Brown Sugar: This boosts the sweetness and helps the sauce thicken. Maple syrup also works fine if you want a different sweet note.
Rice Vinegar or Lime Juice: Adds brightness and balances sweetness. Lemon juice can be used as an alternative.
How Do You Get the Chicken Crispy and the Sauce Perfectly Sticky?
Cooking the chicken and sauce right is key for this recipe. Here’s how I usually do it:
- Heat oil until it’s shimmering before adding the chicken pieces to get a nice sear.
- Don’t crowd the pan; cook chicken in batches if needed so they brown instead of steaming.
- Once browned, lower heat before adding sauce so it thickens without burning or drying out the chicken.
- Simmer the sauce for a couple of minutes and stir gently to coat chicken evenly—this creates that sticky, glazed look.
These steps make your chicken tender on the inside and coated with a flavorful, glossy sauce on the outside. It’s simple but makes a big difference!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large nonstick or stainless steel skillet – great for cooking chicken evenly without sticking.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – helps you stir the chicken and sauce without scratching the pan.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to get the sauce ingredients just right.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – makes chopping chicken and garlic quick and safe.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp for a quick seafood version that cooks faster but keeps the sauce magic.
- Add diced bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
- Mix in crushed peanuts or cashews just before serving to add a nutty texture.
- For more heat, stir in fresh chopped chili or a dash of sriracha to amp up the spice level.
Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp oil (vegetable or canola)
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, so you can have this delicious Sweet Chili Chicken ready in just around 20 minutes. Quick and perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Lightly sprinkle with salt and pepper to give it a little flavor.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat the oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook them for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is for the chicken to turn golden brown and be cooked through.
3. Making the Sauce:
While the chicken cooks, mix the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, rice vinegar (or lime juice), and chili flakes (if you like it spicy) in a small bowl.
4. Combining Chicken and Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, lower the heat to medium and pour the sauce over the chicken. Stir well to coat all pieces. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the sauce thickens and becomes sticky and delicious.
5. Serving:
Take the pan off the heat. Transfer the chicken to your serving dish and sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve it hot with steamed rice or your favorite veggies for a complete meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. This helps ensure even cooking and the best texture.
Can I Make Sweet Chili Chicken Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and cook the chicken and sauce in advance, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
How Do I Make This Dish Less Spicy?
Simply omit the chili flakes or reduce the amount. You can also balance heat by adding a bit more honey or brown sugar to increase the sweetness and mellow out the spice.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Serve with Sweet Chili Chicken?
Steamed jasmine rice is a classic choice that soaks up the sauce beautifully. For a refreshing contrast, try a cucumber salad or lightly steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas.
