Name: Irresistible Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; ½ cup cornstarch; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp garlic powder; Oil for frying; ½ cup sweet chili sauce; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp grated ginger; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat); 2 green onions, chopped; 1 tbsp sesame seeds

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Short Description

Sweet Chili Chicken is the perfect blend of crispy, juicy chicken coated in a delectable sticky-sweet and mildly spicy sauce. This easy-to-make dish delivers bold flavors and a satisfying crunch, making it a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish for gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Balance of Flavors – The combination of sweetness, tanginess, and mild heat makes this dish incredibly satisfying.
Crispy Yet Juicy – Lightly coated and pan-fried or baked to golden perfection while keeping the chicken moist inside.
Quick & Easy – Simple steps make this recipe accessible to both beginner and experienced home cooks.
Versatile – Can be served over rice, noodles, or in a wrap for a delicious twist.
Customizable Heat Level – Adjust the spice to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts or thighs
Cornstarch
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Oil for frying
Sweet chili sauce
Soy sauce
Honey
Rice vinegar
Garlic
Ginger
Red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
Green onions (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Coat the Chicken: Lightly coat the chicken pieces in cornstarch, ensuring each piece is evenly covered for a crispy texture.
Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat and fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Make the Sauce: In a separate pan, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir well and let it simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine & Coat: Add the fried chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat each piece evenly.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

Variations

Baked Version: Instead of frying, bake the coated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for an evenly crispy texture.
Air-Fryer Alternative: Air-fry the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway.
Extra Spicy: Add sriracha or more red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure the sweet chili sauce is gluten-free.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with crispy tofu or cauliflower.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months; reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Reheating: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce or reheat in an air fryer for crispiness.

FAQs

How spicy is this sweet chili chicken?

The dish has a mild heat level, but you can adjust the spice by adding more red pepper flakes or sriracha.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance, then toss them together when ready to serve.

What sides go well with sweet chili chicken?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, noodles, or a fresh Asian-inspired salad complement this dish well.

Can I use store-bought sweet chili sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought sweet chili sauce works well, but homemade sauce allows better control over flavor and sweetness.

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs offer more juiciness and flavor.

How do I make the chicken extra crispy?

Coating the chicken in cornstarch and frying at the right temperature (around 350°F/175°C) ensures a crispy texture.

Can I use an alternative to cornstarch?

Yes, potato starch or rice flour works well for a similar crispiness.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

No, but you can make a low-carb version by replacing the sweet chili sauce with a sugar-free alternative and using almond flour instead of cornstarch.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Simmering the sauce longer or adding a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) will thicken it.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just ensure the pan isn’t overcrowded when cooking the chicken to maintain crispiness.

Conclusion

This Irresistible Sweet Chili Chicken is a flavorful, crispy, and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whether served over rice, in a wrap, or alongside veggies, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal at home. Try it today and savor the perfect balance of sweet and spicy goodness!

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