Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s equal parts sweet, spicy, and finger-licking good, look no further than Sweet Chili Chicken. This vibrant recipe brings together succulent chicken pieces bathed in a luscious sauce, all complemented by colorful vegetables, perfectly balancing flavor and nutrition in every bite.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Combining simple ingredients, Sweet Chili Chicken delivers extraordinary flavor. Each component, from the chicken to the veggies, plays a key role in creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

• 1 pound chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce: The hero of the dish providing that irresistible sweet-heat combo.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds a savory depth to balance the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce as it cooks.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking the chicken to a perfect golden brown.
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
• 1 teaspoon ginger (minced): Brings a fresh, zesty kick.
• 1 bell pepper (sliced): Adds sweetness and a splash of color.
• 1 cup broccoli florets: Offers a healthy crunch and complements the sauce well.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• Sesame seeds (for garnish): Adds a nutty hint and aesthetic appeal.
• Green onions (sliced, for garnish): Fresh finishing touch to the dish.

Variations

This Sweet Chili Chicken is versatile and can easily be tailored to suit your palate or dietary requirements. Here are some ideas on how you can shake things up!

• Vegetarian Swap: Replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a plant-based delight.
• Extra Veggies: Add peas or carrots for more color and nutrition.
• Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt content.

How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken

Step 1: Marinate Chicken

Start by whisking together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and cornstarch in a bowl. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow them to marinate for 15 minutes to soak up the flavors.

Step 2: Cook Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the marinated chicken. Cook and stir until the chicken is browned and thoroughly cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté briefly until fragrant, then add the bell pepper slices and broccoli florets. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Combine

Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in any remaining marinade. Cook everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are heated through.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer the Sweet Chili Chicken to a serving dish, garnishing with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. It’s deliciously ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds and freshly sliced green onions enhances the dish’s flavor profile and adds a delightful finishing touch that’s both colorful and aromatic.

Side Dishes

Sweet Chili Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, which absorbs the sauce nicely, or with some soft noodles for an inviting, complete meal. A light cucumber salad can also be a refreshing accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant presentation, serve this dish in a wide, shallow dish with the garnishes artistically arranged. Alternatively, offer it in individual bowls for a personalized touch at a dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This Sweet Chili Chicken will remain tasty for up to three days.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooled chicken and veggies in a freezer-safe container. This meal can be kept frozen for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat the dish on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about Sweet Chili Chicken—the way it combines bold flavors with a comforting familiarity. Try it soon, and I’m sure it will become a beloved staple in your home, as it has in mine!

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