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This sweet chili chicken is the answer to those nights when you crave something vibrant and fast without sacrificing big flavor. Each bite of tender chicken and crisp veggies is glazed in a tempting sauce that strikes the perfect balance of sweet and heat. It all comes together in the time it takes to cook up some rice, making this a real go-to meal for busy evenings.
I remember making this for the first time after a super long workday when my fridge was nearly empty aside from leftover veggies and chicken. It has since become my reliable weeknight winner every time I want something bold and simple.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: Keeps this dish tender and lean for easy cutting and fast cooking. When buying, look for chicken that feels firm and moist.
- Sweet chili sauce: Brings the signature kick and gloss. Try several brands at your store, or look for one with visible chili flecks for real flavor.
- Soy sauce: Builds savory depth. Choose low sodium if you like more control over salt.
- Cornstarch: Creates the sticky glaze and gives the chicken a velvety coat.
- Olive oil: Gives a rich finish and helps with browning. Use extra virgin for a hint of fruitiness.
- Garlic and ginger: Add punch and warmth. Freshly minced give the brightest flavor.
- Bell pepper: Adds crunch and sweetness. Go for any color that looks best in the market.
- Broccoli florets: Lend color and plenty of bite. Choose firm vibrant green heads with tight florets.
- Salt and pepper: Round out all the flavors. Taste as you go to keep it perfectly seasoned.
- Sesame seeds: Give a nutty crunch at the end. Lightly toast them if you want even more aroma.
- Green onions: Add freshness and a pretty pop of color. Select ones with crisp, bright stalks.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Mix sweet chili sauce with soy sauce and cornstarch in a large bowl. Add chicken and toss until every piece is coated, then let it soak up the flavors for about fifteen minutes. Marinating helps tenderize the meat and infuses it with the sauce.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Pour olive oil into a hot skillet over medium-high heat. Spread the chicken out and let it sizzle undisturbed for a couple of minutes. Flip so the pieces brown evenly. Cook seven to ten minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Lift out and set aside. Browned bits in the pan add extra flavor to the sauce.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pan add garlic and ginger, then let them sizzle for thirty seconds to bloom their aroma. Stir in bell pepper and broccoli, stirring frequently so they soften but still keep some snap. Give them five to seven minutes for perfect texture.
- Combine Everything:
- Return the chicken to the skillet and pour in any extra marinade. Stir everything together so the vegetables and chicken get glossy and sticky with sauce. Cook for another two to three minutes so the flavors meld and glaze forms.
- Finish and Serve:
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions on top just before serving. The dish shines when it is hot over rice or noodles.
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My favorite part is always the little bits of sticky glazed chicken that I sneak from the pan before serving. The burst of garlic and ginger reminds me of family-style dinners growing up with everyone reaching for seconds.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce thickens a little overnight, which I think makes it even more delicious. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to loosen the glaze or enjoy cold as a rice bowl topper.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap chicken breast for boneless thighs if you want juicier pieces. For a plant-based version try firm tofu or tempeh. Cauliflower makes a great stand-in for broccoli if that is what you have on hand. Tamari or coconut aminos work as a gluten free replacement for soy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Sweet Chili Chicken over freshly steamed jasmine rice for a comfort-food bowl or toss it with chewy noodles for a street-food style meal. For extra crunch add julienned carrots or snap peas. I love topping it all with even more green onions and a squeeze of lime.
Cultural Note
Sweet chili sauce is a beloved condiment in Southeast Asian cooking that balances tangy sweetness with gentle heat. Used in dipping and stir-fries, it brings dishes like this to life with its bold color and flavor. Bringing it home lets you enjoy that restaurant flair with simple ingredients and fast results.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the chicken tender?
Marinate the chicken with the sauce and cornstarch, and avoid overcooking for best results.
- → Can I substitute other vegetables?
Yes, try snap peas, carrots, or zucchini to complement or replace the bell pepper and broccoli.
- → What's the best protein alternative?
Tofu, shrimp, or pork work well if you prefer something different from chicken.
- → How spicy is the sauce?
The sweet chili sauce is mildly spicy, but you can add chili flakes for more heat if desired.
- → What sides pair well?
Serve over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or favorite noodles for a complete meal.
- → Can I make it ahead?
Prepare components in advance and combine just before serving to preserve texture and freshness.