Sweet Chili Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines the bold taste of sweet chili sauce with tender, juicy chicken. This mix of sweet, spicy, and savory elements has become a favorite in many kitchens. Influenced by Asian cooking, where the balance of heat and sweetness is key, it’s a versatile and simple meal to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken Breast: 1.5 to 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: 1 cup (store-bought or homemade) for that signature sweet and spicy flavor.
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons to add a savory depth.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced, for aromatic flavor.
- Ginger: 1 tablespoon, minced, to add warmth and spice.
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons for cooking.
- Cornstarch: 1/4 cup to coat the chicken for a crispy texture.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- Green Onions: 2, sliced, for garnish and a fresh flavor.
- Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon for garnish and a nutty crunch.
- Rice or Noodles: For serving, such as jasmine rice, basmati rice, or noodles of your choice.
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Marinate the Chicken
Start by slicing the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized chunks. In a bowl, mix together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Add the chicken to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
2. Coat the Chicken
Place the cornstarch in a separate bowl and season it lightly with salt and pepper. Take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator. Using a slotted spoon, lift the chicken pieces from the marinade, letting the excess liquid drip off. Coat each piece in the cornstarch, making sure it is evenly covered.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked. To prevent steaming and ensure crispiness, avoid overcrowding the pan and cook in batches if needed.
4. Garnish and Serve
After the chicken is done, move it to a serving platter. Top it with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve it with steamed rice or noodles to make a complete meal.
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Sweet Chili Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sweet Chili Chicken is a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors with tender, crispy chicken pieces coated in a delicious homemade or store-bought sweet chili sauce. This easy-to-make dish is great for quick dinners or meal prep and pairs perfectly with rice or noodles.
Ingredients
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1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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1 cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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1/4 cup cornstarch
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
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Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)
Instructions
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Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Add chicken pieces and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours. -
Coat the Chicken:
Place cornstarch in a shallow dish. Season with salt and pepper. Remove chicken from marinade with a slotted spoon and dredge in cornstarch until well coated. -
Cook the Chicken:
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Cook chicken pieces in batches for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
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Serve and Garnish:
Transfer chicken to a serving plate. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Notes
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Serving Size: 1 cup
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Calories: 350 kcal
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Sugar: 12g
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Sodium: 550mg
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Fat: 12g
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Saturated Fat: 2g
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Unsaturated Fat: 10g
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Trans Fat: 0g
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Carbohydrates: 20g
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Fiber: 1g
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Protein: 35g
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Cholesterol: 85mg
- Prep Time: 15 minute
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Tips for the Perfect Sweet Chili Chicken
- Marinating Time: To get the best taste, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinate it for up to 2 hours so the flavors can soak into the meat completely.
- Crispy Coating: Ensure the chicken pieces are evenly coated with cornstarch to achieve a crispy texture when cooked.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair the dish with steamed jasmine or basmati rice, or serve it over noodles for a hearty meal.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of sriracha sauce to the marinade.
Variations to Explore
- Air-Fried Version: For a healthier alternative, consider air-frying the coated chicken pieces. This method reduces the amount of oil used while still achieving a crispy texture.
- Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off approach, cook the marinated chicken in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours. This method results in tender, flavorful chicken that can be shredded and served over rice or noodles.
- Vegetarian Twist: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish. Ensure the tofu is pressed to remove excess moisture before marinating and cooking.
Final Thoughts
Sweet Chili Chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. The balance of sweet and spicy flavors, combined with the crispy chicken, creates a delightful culinary experience. Experiment with the variations and find the version that best suits your taste preferences.
