Focus Keyword: Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe
NLP Keywords: sweet chili sauce chicken, sticky chicken, Asian-inspired chicken, spicy sweet chicken, sweet and spicy chicken recipe, baked chicken, chicken with glaze, easy chicken dinner
Introduction
Looking for the perfect weeknight meal that balances sweet heat, bold flavor, and minimal effort? This Sweet Chili Chicken recipe hits every mark. It’s one of the most searched-for spicy-sweet dishes, with over 80,000 monthly searches and consistent viral success on TikTok and Pinterest.
Marinated in a tangy-sweet chili glaze and either baked or pan-seared to sticky perfection, this dish is Asian-inspired, meal prep-friendly, and absolutely addictive.
Whether you’re serving it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or alongside roasted veggies, this will become your go-to spicy-sweet protein recipe.
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you need for a sticky, flavorful Sweet Chili Chicken dish:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3/4 cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 fresh cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (optional but recommended)
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (for extra stickiness)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water – for thickening)
- Sesame seeds and green onions (for garnish)
🌶️ Optional: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha for more heat.
Timing
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Marination Time (optional): 30 minutes (can skip if short on time)
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30–40 minutes
📊 That’s faster than most takeout options—and way healthier!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Marinate
In a bowl, mix the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and honey. Pour half of this mixture over your chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours in the fridge). Reserve the rest of the sauce for cooking.
🧠 Short on time? Skip the marinade and jump right to cooking. It’ll still be delicious!
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the reserved sweet chili sauce mixture. Bring it to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Let it cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened.
Step 4: Combine and Glaze
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the glaze. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until sticky and glossy.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot and sticky!
Nutritional Information
Per serving (serves 4):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~320 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Carbs | 24g |
| Sugar | 18g |
| Sodium | ~900mg |
🥢 High in protein, flavorful, and easy to scale for meal prep or family dinners.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to lighten it up or customize for dietary preferences?
- Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos
- Swap sugar for monk fruit sweetener or maple syrup
- Replace chicken with tofu or shrimp for plant-based or pescatarian options
- Air-fry or bake instead of pan-frying to reduce oil
- Add steamed veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy for fiber
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet Chili Chicken is super versatile. Try it:
- Over jasmine or coconut rice
- With stir-fried noodles
- Inside lettuce wraps with shredded cabbage
- In a grain bowl with quinoa and roasted veggies
- With a side of pickled cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch
🍽️ Meal Prep Tip: Store chicken and rice separately for better texture when reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Overcooking the chicken: This dries it out—keep the heat at medium-high and cook until just done.
❌ Skipping sauce reduction: Without thickening, the glaze won’t stick.
❌ Using overly sweet chili sauces: Look for balanced brands or add vinegar to adjust.
❌ Not resting marinated chicken at room temp before cooking: Prevents temperature shock and uneven cooking.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Yes! Cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the glaze.
🔥 Bonus Tip: Leftover Sweet Chili Chicken makes a great wrap or taco filling!
Conclusion
This Sweet Chili Chicken recipe delivers the ultimate combo of sticky, sweet, and slightly spicy—all in under 40 minutes. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep, this dish will satisfy any craving with minimal effort.
✨ Try it out tonight, then drop us a comment below with your favorite twist. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more quick, flavor-packed recipes every week!
FAQs
Q1: Can I bake Sweet Chili Chicken instead?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, then broil for 2–3 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
Q2: What’s the best sweet chili sauce to use?
Mae Ploy and Thai Kitchen are popular choices. Choose one that balances sweetness and spice.
Q3: Can I make this recipe with frozen chicken?
Yes, but fully thaw it first for even cooking and better texture.
Q4: How spicy is this dish?
Mild to moderate. Add sriracha or chili flakes for extra heat.
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