Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe – Sticky, Savory, and Fast
This sweet chili chicken recipe is your new go-to for a fast, flavor-packed dinner. Tender chicken is pan-seared and coated in a sticky, sweet-and-spicy chili sauce that's better than takeout. Ready in 30 minutes and perfect for meal prep, rice bowls, or stir-fry night!
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup cornstarch for coating
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil for frying (like canola or avocado oil)
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for extra heat
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions for garnish
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the MarinadeIn a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon lime juice.
- Step 2: Marinate the ChickenPlace chicken in a zip-top bag or bowl. Pour marinade over and let sit for at least 15 minutes (or up to 24 hours for more flavor).
- Step 3: Bake or Pan SearBake in a 400°F oven for 20–25 minutes or until internal temperature hits 165°F. Or sear in a hot pan with olive oil 6–8 minutes per side.
- Step 4: Glaze and GarnishBrush extra sweet chili sauce over cooked chicken and broil for 2 minutes for caramelization. Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
Secret Tips for Sweet Chili Chicken
- Double Dredge for Crispier Texture: For next-level crunch, dredge the chicken in cornstarch, let it sit for 10 minutes, then dredge again before frying. It creates a thicker, crispier coating that holds up beautifully under the sauce.
- Flash Chill for Juicier Chicken: After cooking the chicken, let it rest on a wire rack for 2–3 minutes before saucing. This lets the crust set and traps the juices inside the meat.
- Use Toasted Sesame Seeds: Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan for 2 minutes before sprinkling. It adds a nutty depth that makes the flavor pop.
- Secret Ingredient Booster: Add a tiny splash of fish sauce or a few drops of toasted sesame oil to the sauce for an umami boost—just a ¼ teaspoon can transform the flavor without overpowering it.
- Keep the Sauce Separate for Meal Prep: If you're making this ahead, store the crispy chicken and sauce separately. Combine them right before reheating to keep the texture from getting soggy.
- Add Fresh Citrus: A squeeze of lime or a touch of orange zest at the end lifts the flavor and adds brightness that balances the sweet and spicy notes.
- Level-Up Leftovers: Use any extras in a wrap, toss over salad greens, or stuff into lettuce cups for a fresh twist the next day.