Are you looking for a dish that combines sweet, savory, and just the right amount of heat? Look no further than Sweet Chili Chicken! This dish is the perfect balance of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a flavorful, sweet chili sauce that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests at a dinner party, this recipe is both simple and delicious.

In this guide, we’ll take you through each step of making Sweet Chili Chicken, from gathering your ingredients to creating the perfect meal. By the end, you’ll have all the tips and tricks to make this dish a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Sweet Chili Chicken

There’s a lot to love about this Sweet Chili Chicken recipe. First off, it’s a one-pan wonder. That means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. The star of this recipe is the sweet chili sauce, which brings a delightful mix of sweetness and tang, with a hint of heat from the chili. Paired with juicy chicken breast, crisp vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli, and a few simple seasonings, you have a meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Another reason this recipe shines is its versatility. You can adjust the level of sweetness and heat to your liking, and you can also swap out veggies based on what you have on hand. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, perfect for a busy weeknight or a satisfying weekend dinner.

Ingredients for Sweet Chili Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:

Main Ingredients:

1 pound chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
½ cup sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon ginger (minced)
1 bell pepper (sliced)
1 cup broccoli florets
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Green onions (sliced, for garnish)

These ingredients work together to create a balanced and satisfying meal that combines tender chicken with a savory sauce and fresh vegetables.

Variations and Substitutions:

Chicken alternatives: If you prefer a different protein, you can easily swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the protein is cooked through.
Vegetable options: Feel free to swap out the bell pepper and broccoli for other vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or snap peas.
Sauce adjustments: If you want to kick up the heat, add more chili sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a sweeter version, increase the amount of sweet chili sauce or add a little honey.

Instructions for Making Sweet Chili Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium-sized bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Whisk the mixture until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. This combination of ingredients will create a thick, flavorful sauce that coats the chicken and vegetables perfectly. Set the sauce mixture aside while you cook the chicken and veggies.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large pan or skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the pan. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is golden brown and cooked through. Make sure to cook the chicken in batches if needed, ensuring that each piece gets a nice sear. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir them around for about 30 seconds, letting the flavors release. Add the sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets to the pan. Sauté the vegetables for 4-5 minutes, or until they are tender but still vibrant. The garlic and ginger will infuse the vegetables with an aromatic flavor that enhances the overall dish.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the sweet chili sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes, thickening up as it heats. This is the time to adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the sauce has thickened and everything is well-coated, it’s time to serve. Transfer the chicken and vegetables to a serving dish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with sliced green onions for an added touch of flavor and color.

Serve your Sweet Chili Chicken hot, paired with rice or noodles for a complete meal. The sweet chili sauce pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

Tips for Making Perfect Sweet Chili Chicken

Cook chicken evenly: To ensure your chicken pieces are evenly cooked, try not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
Thickening the sauce: If the sauce doesn’t thicken to your liking, add a little more cornstarch mixed with water to the pan. Let it cook for a minute or two to thicken up.
Don’t overcook the veggies: Sauté the bell pepper and broccoli just until they are tender but still crisp. Overcooked vegetables can lose their vibrant color and crunch.
Adjust the sweetness and heat: You can control the sweetness and heat by adding more or less chili sauce. If you like your dish extra spicy, add some red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Meal prep friendly: This recipe is great for meal prep. Store the cooked Sweet Chili Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it quickly in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Nutritional Information for Sweet Chili Chicken

This Sweet Chili Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 330 kcal
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 10g

You can make this recipe even lighter by serving it over cauliflower rice or skipping the sesame seeds and green onions for a low-calorie version.

Why Sweet Chili Chicken Is a Go-To Meal

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor. Sweet Chili Chicken brings together the best of both worlds: the savory depth of soy sauce, the heat of chili, and the sweetness that makes it truly irresistible. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just getting started, Sweet Chili Chicken is a dish you can master. It’s a versatile recipe that allows for substitutions based on your preferences or what you have on hand. It’s also a great base to customize with different proteins, vegetables, and even grains.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you love Sweet Chili Chicken, here are a few other recipes that pair well with it or share similar flavors and cooking techniques:

FAQs About Sweet Chili Chicken

How long does sweet chili chicken last?

Sweet Chili Chicken can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to consume it within that time. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, though the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

What pairs well with sweet chili chicken?

Sweet Chili Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables, a fresh salad, or even crispy spring rolls for a complete meal.

What does chili chicken taste like?

Chili chicken typically has a spicy, savory flavor with a hint of sweetness. The heat from the chili balances out the savory taste of the soy sauce and the richness of the chicken, creating a satisfying dish that is both bold and flavorful.

What does sweet chili sauce taste like?

Sweet chili sauce has a unique combination of sweetness and heat. The sugar or honey gives it a sugary flavor, while the chili adds a mild spiciness, often accompanied by garlic and vinegar for an extra tangy kick. The result is a balanced sauce that is both sweet and savory with a touch of heat.

Final Thoughts on Sweet Chili Chicken

This Sweet Chili Chicken is a perfect recipe to have in your meal rotation. It’s flavorful, quick to make, and packed with nutrition. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight dinner or a special dish to serve guests, it’s sure to impress everyone who tries it. The balance of sweet and savory flavors, paired with the tender chicken and crisp vegetables, will make it a family favorite in no time.

Enjoy creating this dish, and feel free to experiment with different vegetables or proteins to make it your own. The beauty of Sweet Chili Chicken lies in its flexibility, making it a recipe you can keep coming back to for years to come.

Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe: A Quick & Delicious Dish

Author: MastertheKitchen
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Sweet Chili Chicken is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory! Tender chicken pieces are cooked with a zesty, sweet chili sauce, creating a mouthwatering dish. Paired with vibrant vegetables and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, this dish is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
½ cup sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon minced ginger
1 bell pepper (sliced)
1 cup broccoli florets
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Green onions (sliced, for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare Sauce: In a bowl, mix sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Set aside.
Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
Sauté Veggies: In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, bell pepper, and broccoli. Cook until veggies are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine: Add the cooked chicken back to the pan. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir well to coat the chicken and vegetables. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Garnish & Serve: Season with salt and pepper. Top with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce.
You can adjust the sweetness and spiciness by adding more or less sweet chili sauce.
If you prefer a crunchier texture, cook the chicken separately and add it at the end to maintain its crispiness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stir-frying
Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 280 kcal
Sugar: 13g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 75mg