Sweet Chili Chicken

Whenever I’m in the mood for something flavorful and satisfying, I turn to Sweet Chili Chicken. It’s the kind of dish that dances on your taste buds, combining the perfect amount of sweetness and heat. I remember the first time I made this dish; I wanted something quick yet impressive for a weeknight dinner. As I sautéed the chicken, the aroma filled my kitchen, drawing my family in with eager anticipation. Each bite of that crispy, golden chicken coated in a deliciously sticky sweet chili sauce takes me back to those cozy family nights, where we gather around the table and enjoy good food and even better company.

Ingredients Overview for Sweet Chili Chicken

When preparing Sweet Chili Chicken, the ingredients play a crucial role in creating that rich, balanced flavor profile. Each component complements the others, forming a wonderful harmony that’s both satisfying and delicious. The key players include tender chicken, a crispy coating, and the vibrant sweet-and-spicy sauce.

• ½ cup all-purpose flour – This gives the chicken a lovely crispiness when fried.
• ¼ cup cornstarch – Enhances the texture and keeps the coating light and crunchy.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
• 1 pound chicken breast (boneless and skinless, cut into long strips, 1-inch wide) – The star of the dish, tender and juicy.
• vegetable oil (for frying) – Provides the necessary heat for frying the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Adds a nutty depth to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon butter – For a rich, velvety texture in the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced) – Introduces a fragrant aroma and flavor.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Contributes umami, balancing the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed) – Offers a refreshing tang that cuts through the sauce’s sweetness.
• 4 tablespoons sweet chili sauce – The key ingredient, providing sweetness and a little kick.
• 2 tablespoons honey – Amplifies the sweetness and stickiness of the sauce.
• 2 green onions (sliced) – For garnish, adding a fresh crunch.
• 1 red chili (sliced) – Optional, for a spicy garnish.

The Method for Sweet Chili Chicken

Cooking Sweet Chili Chicken is a delightful journey that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas. Let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering dish together!

1. Prep the chicken: In a large shallow plate, combine the flour, cornstarch, and salt thoroughly. This mixture will create a crispy coating that’s essential for our chicken. Dredge each piece of chicken through the flour mixture, ensuring it’s well coated. Setting it aside allows the pieces to rest, so the coating adheres better during frying.

2. Fry the chicken: In a large skillet, heat about ½ to ¾ inch of vegetable oil until it reaches 350°F. This temperature is key for achieving that perfect golden brown crust. Carefully add the chicken to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can drop the oil temperature. Fry the chicken for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until it’s beautifully golden and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil and maintain its crispiness.

3. Make the sauce: After frying, discard the oil from the skillet, leaving behind all that delicious flavor. Add the sesame oil and butter, heating until the butter has melted. This step adds richness to the sauce. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds on low heat until aromatic but not browned. Next, add the remaining sauce ingredients: soy sauce, lime juice, sweet chili sauce, and honey. Stir well and let it cook for 1 minute to meld all the flavors.

4. Toss the chicken with the sauce: Carefully transfer all the fried chicken back into the skillet. Toss it well in the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated beautifully. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes over low heat, just until the chicken is heated through and glistening with that luscious sauce.

5. Garnish and serve: To finish, garnish with sliced green onions and red chili for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the Sweet Chili Chicken hot, alongside rice or noodles, and get ready for a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some great variations to try with Sweet Chili Chicken. These tips will add flair to your dish and keep it exciting!

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 5 days to keep them fresh.
• Freezing: Freeze Sweet Chili Chicken in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Serve with noodles: For a twist, toss the chicken with cooked noodles in the sauce for a complete meal.
• Vegetable addition: Stir in some sautéed bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
• Rice pairing: Serve over jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant meal.
• Spice it up: Add more sliced red chili or a sprinkle of chili flakes if you enjoy extra heat.
• Grilled version: Try grilling the chicken instead of frying for a healthier option that still packs flavor.

What Goes Well With This Sweet Chili Chicken

Pairing your Sweet Chili Chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some suggestions:

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: A perfect side that absorbs the flavorful sauce.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas add color and crunch.
• Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing complements the sweetness.
• Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls make for a delightful appetizer before the main course.
• Cold Noodle Salad: A chilled noodle salad can balance the warm, saucy chicken.
• Occasion: This dish is great for casual family dinners, special celebrations, or even meal prep for the week.
• Leftover ideas: Use leftovers in wraps or salads for a quick lunch.

FAQ

Conclusion

Sweet Chili Chicken offers a delightful blend of flavors that make it a standout dish for any occasion. This recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly satisfying, perfect for family dinners or meal prep. I encourage you to try making it tonight; I promise it will be a hit!

Sweet Chili Chicken

Satisfy your cravings with this Sweet Chili Chicken, a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights! The combination of crispy chicken and a sticky sweet sauce will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a delicious way to spice up your dinner routine tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 pound chicken breast (boneless and skinless, cut into long strips, 1-inch wide)
• vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 4 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 green onions (sliced)
• 1 red chili (sliced)

Equipment

• Le Creuset 3.75-Quart Braiser

Method

 

1. In a large shallow plate, combine the flour, cornstarch, and salt thoroughly. Dredge each piece of chicken through the flour mixture, ensuring it’s well coated. Setting it aside allows the pieces to rest, so the coating adheres better during frying.
2. In a large skillet, heat about ½ to ¾ inch of vegetable oil until it reaches 350°F. This temperature is key for achieving that perfect golden brown crust. Carefully add the chicken to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can drop the oil temperature. Fry the chicken for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until it's beautifully golden and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil and maintain its crispiness.
3. After frying, discard the oil from the skillet, leaving behind all that delicious flavor. Add the sesame oil and butter, heating until the butter has melted. This step adds richness to the sauce. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds on low heat until aromatic but not browned. Next, add the remaining sauce ingredients: soy sauce, lime juice, sweet chili sauce, and honey. Stir well and let it cook for 1 minute to meld all the flavors.
4. Carefully transfer all the fried chicken back into the skillet. Toss it well in the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated beautifully. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes over low heat, just until the chicken is heated through and glistening with that luscious sauce.
5. To finish, garnish with sliced green onions and red chili for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the Sweet Chili Chicken hot, alongside rice or noodles, and get ready for a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Notes

• Tip 1: After you fry the chicken, make sure you place a paper towel on the plate to soak up any extra oil and to leave the chicken nice and crispy.
• Tip 2: Don’t overcook the chicken; you want it golden brown and crispy.
• Tip 3: Season to your taste; add more spices if you want bolder flavors.
• Tip 4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days.
• Tip 5: Freeze this dish in airtight containers for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

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Meet Nora Wells

The Hearth Keeper For me, cooking is about hospitality. I want every recipe we create to make people feel welcome and safe. I love the old ways of cooking cast iron skillets, wooden spoons, and recipes passed down through generations. I work with the team to add that touch of nostalgia to our dishes. Whether we are making a modern pasta or a vintage cake, I’m there to ensure it tastes like home.