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Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe

Sweet Chili Chicken

Sweet Chili Chicken features tender chicken pieces coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce that perfectly balances sweet and spicy elements. This quick-cooking dish delivers restaurant-quality results in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining. The vibrant sauce and simple preparation make it a versatile crowd-pleaser.
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Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Tongs or large spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Small saucepan (optional)
  • Serving platter

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken:
  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • For the Sweet Chili Sauce:
  • ½ cup sweet chili sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
  • For Garnish:
  • 2 green onions sliced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • Fresh cilantro leaves optional

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss chicken with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  • Heat the Pan: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Cook the Chicken: Add seasoned chicken pieces to the hot pan in a single layer. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
  • Make the Sauce: While chicken cooks, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a small bowl.
  • Combine: Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked chicken and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken and cling to the chicken.
  • Thicken if Needed: If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute until the Sweet Chili Chicken reaches desired consistency.
  • Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and transfer to serving platter. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

Chicken thighs remain more tender and flavorful than breasts
Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken to ensure proper browning
Sweet Chili Chicken sauce should be glossy and coat the chicken evenly
Internal temperature of chicken must reach 165°F for food safety
Adjust sweetness or heat level by modifying sauce ingredients