Easy Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe

Easy Sweet Chili Chicken is a delicious dish that brings together crispy fried chicken coated in a sweet chili sauce. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe comes together in no time, delivering the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Ideal for busy weeknights, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Why Make This Recipe

Sweet and Spicy Sauce

The sweet chili sauce, combined with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, creates a flavor-packed sauce that coats the crispy chicken. It has just the right amount of sweetness, with a hint of spice, making every bite irresistible.

Quick and Easy

With only 25 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for those busy nights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Crispy, Tender Chicken

The batter-coated chicken is fried to a perfect golden brown, giving you that crispy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, tangy sauce.

Ingredients & Substitutions

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: You can use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness. If you want to keep it lighter, chicken breasts work just as well.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Flour helps create the crispy coating. You can substitute with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour if needed.
• 1 large egg: This helps bind the flour to the chicken. You can use a flax egg or aquafaba for a vegan option.

For the Sauce:

• 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds depth and smokiness to the sauce. You can use regular paprika or cayenne pepper if you like it spicier.
• 1/2 tsp onion powder: Brings savory flavor to the sauce.
• 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp freshly ground pepper: Adjust these to taste.
• 2 cloves garlic, grated: Fresh garlic adds a punch. You can substitute with garlic powder in a pinch.
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated: Adds warmth and zing to the dish. You can also use ground ginger if fresh is unavailable.
• 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce: The star of the recipe! You can buy it or make it at home if you prefer.
• 3 tbsp soy sauce: Adds saltiness and umami. Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Gives the sauce a silky texture. You can use vegan butter if necessary.
• 2-3 tbsp vegetable oil for frying: Any neutral oil like canola or sunflower works fine.

Optional Garnish:

• Sliced green onions: For freshness and color.
• Sesame seeds: Adds a nice crunch and a hint of nuttiness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Cut the chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces.
• Season with smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Coat the Chicken:

• In a bowl, add the seasoned chicken pieces, egg, and flour. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated with the batter.

3. Fry the Chicken:

• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You need enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
• Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan).
• Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. You may need to fry the chicken in batches depending on the size of your pan.

4. Make the Sauce:

• In a separate saucepan, combine grated garlic, grated ginger, sweet chili sauce, and soy sauce.
• Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through (about 2 minutes).

5. Toss the Chicken in the Sauce:

• Once the chicken is cooked and crispy, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
• Add the crispy chicken to the saucepan with the sauce. Toss until all the pieces are coated evenly in the sauce.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
• Serve hot with your favorite side, such as steamed rice, noodles, or vegetables.

How to Store Easy Sweet Chili Chicken

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool before freezing. To reheat, bake or fry the chicken to regain its crispy texture.

Tips to Make Easy Sweet Chili Chicken

1. Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for more heat.
2. Crispy Chicken: If you prefer extra crispy chicken, you can double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the flour mixture twice before frying.
3. Make it Vegan: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and follow the same instructions for coating and frying.

Variations

• Add vegetables: You can stir in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas into the sauce for a more wholesome meal.
• Use a different sauce: If you’re not a fan of sweet chili sauce, try a teriyaki or hoisin sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Air fryer option: Instead of frying, use an air fryer for a healthier version of this dish. Just coat the chicken pieces with a little oil and cook at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to toss them together just before serving to maintain the crispiness of the chicken.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but they may not be as juicy as chicken thighs. Just make sure to cut the chicken into smaller pieces for even cooking.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until crispy, but frying gives it the best texture.

Conclusion

Easy Sweet Chili Chicken is a quick, crispy, and sweet-spicy dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend dinner. With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a meal that everyone will love. Serve it with your favorite sides and watch it become a staple in your dinner rotation!

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