Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sizzle of chicken hits the pan, I’m instantly transported to my favorite Asian restaurant, where the aroma of sweet and spicy flavors dances in the air. This Sweet Chili Chicken recipe is my secret weapon for transforming an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its delectable glazed finish but also in its versatility—perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort. With a tantalizing balance of sweetness and heat, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser, and if you’re vegetarian, you can easily swap in tofu or tempeh for a delightful alternative. Ready to take your taste buds on a journey? Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible sweet and spicy chicken delight! Why is Sweet Chili Chicken So Irresistible? Succulent Chicken: Tender pieces of chicken enveloped in a vibrant glaze create a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Sweet and Spicy Harmony: The perfect balance of sweet chili sauce and tangy soy makes every bite an explosion of flavor. Versatile Cooking: Whether stir-fried or baked, this recipe adapts to your preferred cooking method, and you can easily make it vegetarian by substituting with pressed tofu or tempeh. Crowd-Pleaser: Friends and family will rave about this dish at dinner parties, just like they do for my Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Fiery Chicken Ramen. Quick and Easy: Lightning-fast preparation means you can enjoy this delightful meal on busy weeknights without breaking a sweat. Chili Chicken Ingredients • Looking to get started on your sweet and spicy adventure? Here are all the ingredients you’ll need! For the Chicken Chicken Breast – 1.5 to 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts; this is your main protein, ensuring tenderness and ease during cooking. Cornstarch – 1/4 cup; vital for achieving that crispy coating on the chicken for a delightful crunch. For the Marinade Sweet Chili Sauce – 1 cup (store-bought or homemade); this is the star of the show, infusing sweetness and a gentle heat into the dish. Soy Sauce – 2 tablespoons; adds savory depth and enhances the flavors of the Sweet Chili Chicken. Garlic – 4 cloves, minced; brings a lovely aromatic kick to the marinade; feel free to adjust to your taste. Ginger – 1 tablespoon, minced; adds warmth and a hint of spiciness; consider omitting for a milder flavor. For Cooking Vegetable Oil – 2 tablespoons; used for frying; feel free to swap it with any neutral oil of your choice. Salt and Pepper – To taste; enhances the overall flavor, so adjust according to your preference. For Garnishing Green Onions – 2, sliced; adds a fresh note and a pop of color when garnished on top. Sesame Seeds – 1 tablespoon; offers a nutty crunch, making your dish visually appealing and delicious. For Serving Rice or Noodles – For serving; this dish pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice, basmati rice, or your favorite noodles. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Chili Chicken Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and penetrate the chicken. If you have time, marinating for up to 2 hours enhances the sweetness and spice. Step 2: Coat the Chicken Once marinated, prepare for cooking by seasoning the cornstarch with salt and pepper in a separate bowl. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off to prevent clumping. Dredge each piece of chicken in the cornstarch until fully coated, ensuring a crispy exterior when cooked. This step is essential for achieving that delightful crunch we crave in sweet chili chicken. Step 3: Heat the Oil In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. To test if the oil is ready, drop in a small piece of chicken; if it sizzles, you’re good to go! Carefully add the coated chicken in batches, avoiding overcrowding to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on all sides. Step 4: Serve the Chicken Once cooked, transfer the golden, crispy chicken to a serving platter. Garnish generously with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a pop of flavor and color. Serve your sweet chili chicken immediately over jasmine or basmati rice, or toss it with your favorite noodles for a hearty meal. Enjoy the delicious harmony of sweet and spicy goodness! What to Serve with Sweet Chili Chicken Transform your sweet chili chicken into a delightful feast with these tempting side dishes that enhance its vibrant flavors. Creamy Coconut Rice: A subtly sweet coconut-infused rice that perfectly balances the spicy and sweet notes of the chicken, creating a comforting bed for each bite. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Fresh bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli tossed in soy sauce add color, crunch, and nutrition, enhancing the overall meal experience beautifully. Pairing these veggies not only adds a pop of freshness but also brings a satisfying texture to your plate. Crispy Spring Rolls: Filled with shrimp or vegetables, these crunchy, savory bites bring an enjoyable contrast to the sweet chili chicken’s tender coating. Pair with a sweet dip to complement the chicken’s flavor—it’s a bite of Asian paradise that your guests will love! Asian-Inspired Salad: A refreshing mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing gives a burst of flavor and crunch, setting off the sweetness of the chicken perfectly. Garlic Noodles: Soft, buttery noodles tossed with aromatic garlic harmonize with the sweet chili chicken, creating a comforting and flavorful pairing. Chilled Cucumber Salad: A light salad with a tangy dressing cools your palate and adds a refreshing touch against the savory and spicy flavors of the dish. Pineapple Fried Rice: The sweet acidity of pineapple combined with savory bits of rice adds a fruity twist that complements the sweet chili sauce beautifully. Iced Green Tea: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate and balances the dish’s flavors, making each bite even more enjoyable. How to Store and Freeze Sweet Chili Chicken Fridge: Store leftover sweet chili chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain its delicious flavor and texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze sweet chili chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Ensure the chicken has cooled completely before sealing. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep the sauce moist, or use the microwave until heated through. Thawing: If frozen, thaw the sweet chili chicken in the refrigerator overnight for best results before reheating. Chili Chicken Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own—it’s a delicious canvas waiting for your unique flavor strokes! Vegetarian Swap: Use pressed tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for a delightful vegetarian alternative that still packs in flavor. Different Proteins: Substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs or drumsticks for extra juiciness and richness in flavor. Homemade Sauce: Make your own sweet chili sauce at home to customize the sweetness and spice to your liking. It’s a fun twist that lets you control the ingredients! Veggie Delight: Add crisp vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas during cooking for a colorful, nutritious boost that’s perfect alongside the chicken. Spice Level: Adjust the heat by incorporating sliced fresh chilies or red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick. Crispier Texture: For an even crunchier exterior, double coat the chicken by dipping it back into the marinade then dredging it again in cornstarch before frying. Noodle Option: Toss the chicken with udon noodles or rice noodles for a comforting, hearty twist—perfect for pleasing those noodle lovers in your family! Sweet Citrus: Add a splash of fresh orange or lime juice to the marinade for a zesty brightness that complements the sweet and spicy flavors beautifully. Ready for more delicious ideas? Consider serving your Sweet Chili Chicken with Honey BBQ Chicken or alongside a delightfully rich dish like Sesame Chicken Healthy. The possibilities are endless! Make Ahead Options These Sweet Chili Chicken preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in the sweet chili sauce mix and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours; the longer marination enhances the sweet heat. Additionally, the coated chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days before cooking, just ensure it’s in an airtight container to maintain its quality. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil and cook the chicken as directed—this way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results without the last-minute rush. It’s a fantastic time-saver, allowing you to focus on enjoying your meal! Expert Tips for Sweet Chili Chicken Marinate Long Enough: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours is even better for deeper flavor penetration. Coat Evenly: Ensure every piece of chicken is well-coated with cornstarch. This step is key for achieving that irresistible crispiness in your sweet chili chicken. Avoid Overcrowding: Fry chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan traps steam and prevents that golden, crispy texture we all love. Thaw Properly: If using frozen chicken, make sure it’s fully thawed before marinating. This ensures even cooking and prevents excess water from affecting the marinade. Experiment with Tofu: For a vegetarian alternative, substitute pressed tofu or tempeh for chicken. Adjust cooking time accordingly to achieve a crispy texture. Control Spice Levels: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of sweet chili sauce. Adding more sauce enhances sweetness while reducing the spiciness, perfect for varying palates. Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for Sweet Chili Chicken? I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, as they provide tender pieces that cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully. You can also opt for chicken thighs for a richer flavor; just adjust the cooking time slightly. How do I know if the chicken is marinated properly? To ensure perfect marination, let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, but if you can wait for up to 2 hours, the flavors will be even more pronounced. The chicken should be well-coated and look moist; it shouldn’t feel dry at all. Can I freeze Sweet Chili Chicken? Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze your cooked sweet chili chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just make sure it has cooled completely before sealing. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave. How should I store leftover Sweet Chili Chicken? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This helps maintain its delicious flavor and texture. Just make sure it’s cooled down before sealing to keep it fresh! What if my chicken isn’t crispy enough? If you find your sweet chili chicken isn’t crispy, it could be due to overcrowding the pan while cooking. Always fry in batches! Additionally, make sure the chicken is coated evenly in cornstarch and the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken for that perfect crunch. Is Sweet Chili Chicken suitable for vegetarians? Yes! For a vegetarian alternative, you can substitute the chicken with pressed tofu or tempeh. Just coat and cook them similarly, adjusting the cooking time as necessary to ensure they become crispy and golden, just like the chicken. This way, everyone can enjoy this delectable sweet and spicy dish! Sweet and Crispy Chili Chicken for Flavorful Home Meals Indulge in Sweet Chili Chicken, a dish bursting with flavor and perfect for dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsMarinating Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AsianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1.5 to 2 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts this is your main protein, ensuring tenderness and ease during cooking.1/4 cup Cornstarch vital for achieving that crispy coating on the chicken for a delightful crunch.For the Marinade1 cup Sweet Chili Sauce this is the star of the show, infusing sweetness and a gentle heat into the dish.2 tablespoons Soy Sauce adds savory depth and enhances the flavors of the Sweet Chili Chicken.4 cloves Garlic, minced brings a lovely aromatic kick to the marinade; feel free to adjust to your taste.1 tablespoon Ginger, minced adds warmth and a hint of spiciness; consider omitting for a milder flavor.For Cooking2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil used for frying; feel free to swap it with any neutral oil of your choice.Salt and Pepper enhances the overall flavor, so adjust according to your preference.For Garnishing2 Green Onions, sliced adds a fresh note and a pop of color when garnished on top.1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds offers a nutty crunch, making your dish visually appealing and delicious.For ServingRice or Noodles this dish pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice, basmati rice, or your favorite noodles. Equipment Large mixing bowlskillet or wokMeasuring CupsMeasuring SpoonsCutting BoardKnife Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Sweet Chili ChickenBegin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and penetrate the chicken. If you have time, marinating for up to 2 hours enhances the sweetness and spice.Once marinated, prepare for cooking by seasoning the cornstarch with salt and pepper in a separate bowl. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off to prevent clumping. Dredge each piece of chicken in the cornstarch until fully coated, ensuring a crispy exterior when cooked.In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. To test if the oil is ready, drop in a small piece of chicken; if it sizzles, you’re good to go! Carefully add the coated chicken in batches, ensuring even cooking and crispiness. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on all sides.Once cooked, transfer the golden, crispy chicken to a serving platter. Garnish generously with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a pop of flavor and color. Serve your sweet chili chicken immediately over jasmine or basmati rice, or toss it with your favorite noodles for a hearty meal. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 1.5mg NotesStore leftover sweet chili chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!