Why Make This Recipe

Sweet Chili Chicken is a delicious dish that combines sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. It is quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The marinade gives the chicken a wonderful flavor, and the crispy coating adds texture. Plus, it’s very adaptable—you can serve it over rice or noodles, making it a versatile meal option.

How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken

Ingredients

Chicken Breast: 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless
Sweet Chili Sauce: 1 cup
Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
Ginger: 1 tablespoon, minced
Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons
Cornstarch: 1/4 cup
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Green Onions: 2, sliced
Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon
Rice or Noodles: For serving

Directions

Marinate the chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Add the chicken pieces and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours).
Coat the chicken: Place cornstarch in a shallow bowl and season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the marinade (save the marinade) and dredge in cornstarch until evenly coated.
Cook the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry the coated chicken in batches for about 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
Glaze the chicken: Add the remaining marinade to the skillet and simmer until slightly thickened. Return the fried chicken to the pan and toss to coat with the glaze for 2–3 minutes.
Serve: Transfer to a platter, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve over rice or noodles. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.

How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken

Sweet Chili Chicken is great served over a bed of steamed rice or tossed with noodles. You can add some steamed vegetables on the side to complete the meal. Garnishing with green onions and sesame seeds gives it an attractive look along with an extra crunch.

How to Store Sweet Chili Chicken

To store Sweet Chili Chicken, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3–4 days. You can reheat it in a microwave or on a stovetop. If storing for longer, consider freezing it, but it’s best to consume it within a couple of months for peak flavor.

Tips to Make Sweet Chili Chicken

Ensure chicken pieces are of similar size for even cooking.
Don’t skip marinating the chicken, as it deeply enhances the flavor.
For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken in cornstarch for a thicker coating.
Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding a bit more soy sauce if preferred.

Variation

You can switch up the protein and use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken. Additionally, for a spicier version, add some red pepper flakes to the marinade or glaze.

FAQs

Can I make Sweet Chili Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken ahead of time. Just cook it when you are ready to eat.
Is Sweet Chili Chicken spicy?
It has a mild spice due to the sweet chili sauce but can be adjusted to taste by adding more spicy ingredients.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking.

Sweet Chili Chicken