If you’ve ever craved the kind of dinner that’s as dazzling as a restaurant meal but so effortless you’re almost embarrassed to accept the compliments, Sweet Chili Sauce Chicken is your golden ticket. Juicy bites of chicken are tossed in a wildly flavorful, sticky glaze that balances savory, sweet, tangy, and just a touch of heat. Whether you’re after a lightning-fast weeknight dinner or something fun for friends, this dish promises big flavor with minimal fuss, and it truly transforms a handful of simple ingredients into something crave-worthy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sweet Chili Sauce Chicken recipe keeps the ingredient list un-fussy, making it perfect for those nights when you want maximum flavor with minimum effort. Each component plays a unique part—think crispy coated chicken, irresistible sauce, and punchy toppings.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Pick your favorite or mix both for extra juiciness and a satisfying bite.
- Cornstarch: Lightly coats the chicken so it gets golden and ever-so-slightly crisp when seared.
- Vegetable oil: Has a high smoke point, perfect for getting that beautiful sear on your chicken bites.
- Sweet chili sauce: The star ingredient, providing sticky sweetness, a gentle kick, and glorious shine.
- Soy sauce: Adds depth and salty umami undertones that balance out the sweetness.
- Rice vinegar: A splash brightens the sauce, making each bite pop with zingy freshness.
- Garlic: Minced for bold, aromatic flavor that mingles perfectly with the sauce.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Use for a customizable spicy boost if you like it hotter.
- Green onions: Sliced and sprinkled on top, they add color and a mild, oniony crunch to every mouthful.
- Sesame seeds (optional): For a finishing flourish with a subtle nutty note and a pretty visual appeal.
How to Make Sweet Chili Sauce Chicken
Step 1: Coat the Chicken
Start by tossing your chicken pieces in cornstarch until each little morsel is lightly dusted. This simple step pays off later, creating a lightly crisp exterior that soaks up all that luscious sweet chili sauce. Make sure every piece gets love—an even coating ensures every bite is perfectly textured.
Step 2: Sear to Perfection
Heat your oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (don’t be shy—let it get hot enough to sizzle). Add the chicken pieces, spreading them out. Don’t overcrowd the pan, which helps them brown, not steam. Let them cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re browned and just cooked through. If needed, cook in batches for best results.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
While the chicken sizzles, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and (if you like things spicy) red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This is where the magic happens—the flavors combine to create that irresistible sticky, sweet, tangy coating for your Sweet Chili Sauce Chicken.
Step 4: Simmer and Glaze
Reduce the heat to medium, then pour the sauce over your cooked chicken. Stir well to evenly coat every piece. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes; the sauce will thicken slightly and embrace the chicken in glossy deliciousness. The aroma? Completely irresistible!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Slide your skillet off the heat, then sprinkle generously with sliced green onions and, if you like, a shower of sesame seeds. It’s these finishing touches that take your Sweet Chili Sauce Chicken from delicious to show-stopping, adding crunch, color, and a pop of freshness.
How to Serve Sweet Chili Sauce Chicken
Garnishes
For the most inviting platter, always finish your Sweet Chili Sauce Chicken with a tumble of freshly sliced green onions and a sparkly dusting of sesame seeds. If you’re feeling extra, add a squeeze of fresh lime or some torn cilantro leaves. These garnishes not only look gorgeous but add a final layer of taste and balance.
Side Dishes
This chicken is a chameleon—it’s incredible served over fluffy steamed rice, tossed with noodles, or even nestled in crisp lettuce wraps. For a fuller spread, think lightly steamed broccoli, snap peas, or a citrusy cucumber salad to refresh your palate with each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Sweet Chili Sauce Chicken into a playful appetizer by skewering chicken pieces and serving them as party bites. Or pile them high on a platter, letting everyone help themselves at a casual family dinner. Leftovers also shine in wraps or as a protein-packed topping for grain bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the Sweet Chili Sauce Chicken to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to three days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or speedy dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for longer storage. Simply portion the cooled chicken and sauce into freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 2 months, and label everything so you remember what that tasty package contains when future cravings strike.
Reheating
Reheat Sweet Chili Sauce Chicken in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened in the fridge. You can also microwave single servings—just cover to prevent splatters and stir halfway through so everything heats evenly.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic choice and actually stay juicy and tender, even after cooking. Feel free to use either or both for your Sweet Chili Sauce Chicken.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute bite-sized cubes of tofu or tempeh in place of chicken. Coat them the same way and follow the same steps—you’ll get all the crave-worthy flavor in a plant-based package.
How spicy is this recipe?
The base recipe is sweet with a gentle warmth. For more heat, simply increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add some fresh chopped chili to the sauce. It’s super flexible to your tastes!
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes! If you’re in a rush, shred or cube pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and toss it with the sauce in the skillet just until warmed through. It won’t have the crispy coating, but it’s still totally delicious.
What is the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftover Sweet Chili Sauce Chicken is incredibly versatile. Try reheating it and serving over rice, stuffing it in a wrap, or tossing with greens for a salad. The flavors even deepen overnight for next-level enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
With its bold flavors and simple steps, Sweet Chili Sauce Chicken brings irresistible takeout energy to your own kitchen. It’s a recipe you’ll want to add to your regular rotation, whether cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself. Give it a try, and experience how this easy dinner truly transforms chicken into something special!
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Sweet Chili Sauce Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Tender pieces of chicken coated in a sticky sweet chili sauce, this Sweet Chili Sauce Chicken is a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Sauce:
- ¾ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish:
- 2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Coat the Chicken: Toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet, cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the Sauce: Whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Combine: Pour sauce over cooked chicken, simmer until thickened.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps.
- Cook the chicken in batches for a crispier texture.
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
