Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with the irresistible flavors of Sweet Chili Chicken! This weeknight wonder brings together tender pieces of chicken tossed in a vibrant, sticky-sweet chili sauce with colorful veggies—all in just 30 minutes. The magic lies in the savory, tangy glaze that clings to every bite, turning simple ingredients into a crave-worthy meal you’ll want on repeat. Trust me, once you whip up this Sweet Chili Chicken, it will become your go-to for both quick weeknight dinners and impressive weekend feasts alike!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how just a handful of simple yet essential ingredients create such a dazzling meal! Every element here plays a key role—bringing either tenderness, richness, bold flavor, or vibrant color to the final dish. Let’s see what makes this Sweet Chili Chicken so special:

• Chicken breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast gives you juicy, tender bites that soak up the sauce beautifully.
• Sweet chili sauce: This star ingredient delivers the signature sticky-sweet and spicy flavor that defines the dish.
• Soy sauce: Adds a savory, umami depth that balances the sweetness of the chili sauce.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce and gives the chicken a gorgeous, glossy sheen.
• Olive oil: For searing the chicken and sautéing the vegetables to tender perfection.
• Minced garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and plenty of punch.
• Ginger (minced): Brings a fresh, slightly spicy brightness that pairs perfectly with sweet chili.
• Bell pepper (sliced): Adds gorgeous pops of color and a crisp, juicy texture.
• Broccoli florets: Offer a satisfying crunch and soak up all that luscious sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors to perfection.
• Sesame seeds (for garnish): Give a delightful nutty finish and some crunch.
• Green onions (sliced, for garnish): Add freshness and a pretty splash of green on top.

How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by creating the flavorful base of this Sweet Chili Chicken. In a bowl, mix the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and cornstarch until well combined. Toss the chicken pieces into this mixture, making sure each piece is well coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes so the chicken can absorb those delicious, bold flavors you’ll taste in every bite.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Once your chicken has had a chance to soak up the marinate, it’s time to bring some sizzle to your skillet! Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook, turning occasionally, until each piece is beautifully golden brown and cooked through—about 7 to 10 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside, but don’t wash the skillet—you’ll want all those tasty browned bits left behind.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Using the same skillet (no flavor left behind!), toss in the minced garlic, ginger, sliced bell pepper, and broccoli florets. Sauté everything together for 5 to 7 minutes until the veggies are vibrant and just tender, but still with a pleasant bite. The garlic and ginger will infuse the veggies with irresistible aromas that fill your kitchen.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken (and any juices) back to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour over any remaining marinade from the bowl. Let everything cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring gently so the sauce thickens and coats every bite evenly. You’ll see the Sweet Chili Chicken transform into a glossy, mouthwatering masterpiece right before your eyes!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Before you serve, scatter plenty of sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top for fresh flavor, crunch, and a dash of color. Your Sweet Chili Chicken is now plate-ready—get ready for happy faces at the table!

How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken

Garnishes

A pile of Sweet Chili Chicken gets even more irresistible with the right finishing touches. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch and sliced green onions for fresh bright flavor. For extra heat, add a few thin slices of red chili or a drizzle of sriracha—if you like things fiery!

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy steamed jasmine rice or comforting noodles, both perfect for soaking up the glossy chili sauce. If you’re aiming for a lighter meal, serve it over cauliflower rice or with an additional side of stir-fried veggies. Even a crisp green salad will round out your Sweet Chili Chicken in the loveliest way.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Sweet Chili Chicken into a fun meal by serving it in lettuce cups for a fresh, hand-held option. Or make rice bowls with a sprinkle of pickled veggies and a wedge of lime for a touch of tang. When entertaining, skewer the chicken and veggies for colorful, party-friendly bites that disappear in minutes!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have leftovers from your Sweet Chili Chicken? Lucky you! Simply transfer any cooled chicken and veggies to an airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days, making weekday lunches a total treat.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooked, cooled Sweet Chili Chicken in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. For best flavor, enjoy within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.

Reheating

When you’re ready for round two, gently reheat your Sweet Chili Chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce needs loosening. It also does well in the microwave—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring to ensure even warming.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great choice for Sweet Chili Chicken, thanks to their extra juiciness and rich flavor. Just be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free option like tamari or coconut aminos. Double-check your sweet chili sauce ingredients to make sure it’s gluten-free as well, and you’re set!

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in snap peas, snow peas, carrots, or even mushrooms. The beauty of Sweet Chili Chicken is its versatility—the more colorful veggies, the merrier.

Can I make Sweet Chili Chicken ahead of time?

You sure can. You can marinate the chicken up to a day ahead, or cook the entire dish and reheat before serving. The flavors will only get better as they mingle in the fridge.

What if I want the dish spicier?

For more heat, stir in a little crushed red pepper, diced fresh chili, or a squirt of sriracha right into the sauce. Adjust slowly and taste as you go—it’s all about building your perfect heat level!

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give Sweet Chili Chicken a try—there’s just something magical about the way that sweet, spicy sauce wraps around every bite. It’s easy enough for busy nights but tasty enough to make any meal feel special. Gather your ingredients and let your kitchen fill with those delicious, feel-good aromas. You’re going to love bringing this dish to your table!

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