This Sweet Chili Chicken recipe brings together the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with crispy, tender chicken glazed in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests with something flavorful and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sweet Chili Chicken is packed with layers of flavor. The crispy, golden-brown chicken is coated in a tangy and sweet chili sauce, creating the perfect balance of heat and sweetness. The additional touch of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger adds depth, while the sesame seeds and green onions bring a fresh crunch and visual appeal. Plus, the recipe is simple to prepare and can be customized with different garnishes and served over rice or noodles for a well-rounded meal.

Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

1.5 to 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup cornstarch
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Rice or noodles, for serving (such as jasmine rice, basmati rice, or noodles of your choice)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Marinate the Chicken:
Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
Coat the Chicken:
In a separate bowl, add the cornstarch and season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and dredge each piece in the cornstarch, ensuring an even coating.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Be sure to cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Remove and Drain:
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer the pieces to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Glaze the Chicken:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining marinade. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss in the sauce until evenly coated. Adjust the seasoning with additional chili sauce or sriracha, if desired.
Serve:
Transfer the glazed chicken to a serving platter and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over rice or noodles of your choice.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10-15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-45 minutes (depending on marinating time)

Variations

Spicy Option: For an extra kick, add some chopped fresh chilies or a splash of sriracha to the marinade or glaze.
Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Add Vegetables: Include vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a more wholesome meal.
Noodles: Serve the chicken with stir-fried noodles or ramen for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little water or extra sauce to keep the chicken moist. Alternatively, you can microwave it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe spicier?

You can add extra sriracha or fresh chilies to the marinade or glaze for more heat. Adjust it to your spice tolerance.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it thoroughly before marinating and cooking for the best results.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes, you can use pork, beef, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly for each type of meat.

Can I make the sauce from scratch?

Yes, you can make your own sweet chili sauce by combining ingredients like sugar, vinegar, garlic, chili flakes, and cornstarch. This gives you more control over the sweetness and heat level.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked. If you don’t have a thermometer, the chicken should be golden brown on the outside and no longer pink inside.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of cornstarch?

While cornstarch is ideal for achieving a crispy texture, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour. It may not be as crispy, but it will still work.

How can I make the chicken more tender?

Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) helps tenderize the meat. For extra tenderness, you can also use a meat mallet to pound the chicken before marinating.

Can I serve this dish without rice or noodles?

Yes, you can serve this chicken on its own or with a side of vegetables. It also works well with a simple salad for a lighter meal.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make the dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free soy sauce and ensure that the sweet chili sauce is gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and coat it with cornstarch before cooking. Just make sure to store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Conclusion

Sweet Chili Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines the best of sweet, savory, and spicy. With tender chicken coated in a crispy layer and drenched in a tangy glaze, it’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether served over rice or noodles, this dish will quickly become a favorite. Enjoy!