If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dinner option, this Sweet Chili Chicken recipe is just the ticket! I remember one night when my son, Jake, declared this dish his new favorite after just one bite. It’s sweet, spicy, and oh-so-satisfying, making it perfect for family dinners.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s quick to prepare, making weeknight meals a breeze.
- The sweet and spicy flavors are a hit with both kids and adults.
- You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies.
Pure Comfort
This Sweet Chili Chicken is pure comfort food. The sticky sauce coats the tender chicken perfectly, and it pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table with smiles.
What You Need
- 1 lb 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs – You can substitute with chicken breasts if preferred.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce – Look for a brand that’s not too spicy for kids.
- 2 tbsp 2 tbsp soy sauce – Low-sodium soy sauce works well too.
- 1 tbsp 1 tbsp vegetable oil – Can substitute with olive oil.
- 1 1 red bell pepper, sliced – Feel free to use any color bell pepper.
- 1 cup 1 cup broccoli florets – You can swap with snap peas or green beans.
- 2 2 green onions, chopped – These add a fresh crunch on top.
Time to Cook
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 15 minutes | Total: 25 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: You can marinate the chicken in the sauce a few hours ahead.
Steps to Make It
- Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and soak up the sweet chili sauce. You want them to be about 1-inch chunks for the best texture.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken pieces. Sauté them until they’re golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. The aroma will be fantastic!
- Next, pour in the sweet chili sauce and soy sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- While the chicken simmers, prepare your veggies. Slice the red bell pepper and chop the broccoli. They’ll add a nice crunch and color to the dish.
- Add the sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes. The veggies should be tender yet still vibrant. Trust me, the colors will make your dish pop!
- Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a fresh finish. Serve this Sweet Chili Chicken over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Make It Perfect
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sweet chili sauce for an hour before cooking.
- If you like it spicier, add a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick lunch.
Mix It Up
- Try adding pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
- Swap the chicken for shrimp for a seafood version.
- You can make it vegetarian by using tofu instead of chicken.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice for a classic pairing.
- A side of crispy spring rolls complements the meal nicely.
- Pair it with a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch.
💡 For more recipes, follow me on Facebook and Pinterest.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken in the sauce a few hours ahead for more flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Sweet Chili Chicken?
Absolutely! Freeze it in a container for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
What can I substitute for sweet chili sauce?
You can mix honey with a bit of sriracha for a homemade version.
What’s the best way to serve this dish?
Serve it hot over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions for a nice touch.
Conclusion
This Sweet Chili Chicken recipe is not just a meal; it’s a way to bring your family together over a delicious dinner. With its sweet and spicy flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home too. Give it a try and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Sweet Chili Chicken
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs Can substitute with chicken breasts if preferred.
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce Look for a brand that’s not too spicy for kids.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce Low-sodium soy sauce works well too.
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil Can substitute with olive oil.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced Feel free to use any color bell pepper.
- 1 cup broccoli florets You can swap with snap peas or green beans.
- 2 green onions, chopped These add a fresh crunch on top.
Instructions
- Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and soak up the sweet chili sauce. You want them to be about 1-inch chunks for the best texture.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken pieces. Sauté them until they’re golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. The aroma will be fantastic!
- Next, pour in the sweet chili sauce and soy sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- While the chicken simmers, prepare your veggies. Slice the red bell pepper and chop the broccoli. They’ll add a nice crunch and color to the dish.
- Add the sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes. The veggies should be tender yet still vibrant. Trust me, the colors will make your dish pop!
- Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a fresh finish. Serve this Sweet Chili Chicken over rice or noodles for a complete meal.