If you’re searching for a quick, mouthwatering dinner idea that hits the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, look no further—this Easy Sweet Chili Chicken recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight go-to.
Made with tender chicken glazed in a sticky, glossy sweet chili sauce, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes using simple pantry ingredients. It’s the perfect harmony of sweet, tangy, and savory with a hint of heat. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Chili Chicken
-
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes
-
Simple Ingredients: No need to overcomplicate dinner—basic pantry staples do the job
-
Versatile: Serve it with stir-fried veggies, in lettuce wraps, or on its own
-
Family-Friendly: Mild enough for kids but satisfying for adults
-
Meal Prep Friendly: Stores and reheats beautifully
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a quick glance at what you’ll need to whip up this flavorful recipe:
-
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts – Thighs offer more juiciness
-
Sweet chili sauce – Store-bought or homemade
-
Garlic – Freshly minced
-
Soy sauce – For that deep umami kick
-
Honey or brown sugar – Optional, to enhance sweetness
-
Rice vinegar – Adds a subtle tang (optional)
-
Cornstarch & water – For thickening, if needed
-
Sesame seeds – For garnish
-
Green onions – For a fresh pop of flavor
How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a bit of oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through—about 4–5 minutes per side.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Pour in the Sauce
Reduce heat to medium. Add sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and honey (if using). Stir to coat evenly.
Step 5: Simmer
Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken. Add a cornstarch slurry if you want it extra thick.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
-
Don’t overcrowd the pan—it helps the chicken brown instead of steam
-
Use thighs for juicier meat, but breasts work well too
-
Make it spicier by adding chili flakes or sriracha
-
Add crunch with cashews or peanuts
-
Balance the sauce to your liking by adjusting the sweet chili, soy sauce, and vinegar
Serving Suggestions
This sweet chili chicken is incredibly versatile. Here are a few great ways to enjoy it:
-
With stir-fried or roasted vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas
-
Over a fresh Asian slaw or salad
-
Wrapped in lettuce leaves or tortillas for a fusion-style wrap
-
Paired with noodles or even mashed potatoes for a creative twist
Storage and Reheating
-
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
-
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating
-
Reheat: In a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
-
Calories: 350 per serving
-
Protein: 30g
-
Carbs: 20g
-
Fat: 15g
FAQs About Sweet Chili Chicken
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breasts work fine—just be careful not to overcook them.
2. Is sweet chili sauce very spicy?
No, it’s mild and sweet with just a hint of heat—perfect for most palates.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s great for meal prep and keeps well in the fridge or freezer.
4. What can I serve with sweet chili chicken?
Try steamed or stir-fried veggies, noodles, or a fresh salad.
5. How do I thicken the sauce?
Use a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) and stir it into the simmering sauce.
6. Can I make it vegetarian or vegan?
Yes—use tofu or plant-based chicken substitutes and make sure your chili sauce is vegan.
7. How long does it take to cook?
About 30 minutes from start to finish.
8. Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?
Yes, just baste with the sauce during the last few minutes of grilling.
9. What if I don’t have sweet chili sauce?
You can make your own using sugar, vinegar, garlic, chili flakes, and a bit of cornstarch.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Just make sure to use a large enough skillet or cook in batches.
11. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce and check your chili sauce to ensure it’s safe.
12. What vegetables go well with this dish?
Broccoli, snap peas, bell peppers, bok choy, or shredded carrots are great options.
13. How do I keep chicken juicy?
Don’t overcook it and consider using chicken thighs for extra tenderness.
14. Can I make it in an air fryer?
Yes—air fry the chicken pieces, then toss them in the heated sauce.
15. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Very much so! It’s sweet and mild with room to spice it up for adults.
Conclusion
This Easy Sweet Chili Chicken recipe is everything you want in a dinner—simple, flavorful, and fast. It’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again, whether you’re cooking for your family or just want something satisfying after a long day.
Tried this recipe? Let us know how it turned out in the comments!
For more flavorful and quick recipes like this, follow us on Pinterest.
Easy Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar optional
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar optional
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water optional for thickening
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
- 2 green onions sliced (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked (4–5 minutes per side).
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Reduce heat and stir in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and honey. Mix to coat the chicken.
- Let simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Add a cornstarch slurry if desired for extra thickness.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
- Serve hot with your choice of sides like stir-fried veggies or lettuce wraps.
Related posts:
Quick Sloppy Joe Casserole Recipe: A Hearty One-Pan Dinner Favorite
Top 7 Healthy Summer Dinner Recipes That Are Light, Flavorful, and Perfect for Warm Evenings
