Crispy Sweet Chilli Chicken Recipe
Are you craving a dish that balances the perfect amount of sweetness with a spicy kick? Look no further than this mouthwatering Sweet Chilli Chicken recipe! This Asian-inspired favorite transforms ordinary chicken into a crispy, sticky delight that’s guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds.
Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering, this Spicy Sweet Chicken dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor with home-cooked comfort.
Ingredients List
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
For the Sweet Chilli Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium option available)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2-3 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust according to heat preference)
- 2 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Substitution tips: Use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option. Maple syrup can replace honey, and apple cider vinegar works in place of rice vinegar.
Timing
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
This Sweet Chilli Chicken recipe saves about 25 minutes compared to traditional marinated versions, making it perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large bowl, toss chicken pieces with salt and white pepper. Add cornstarch and coat each piece thoroughly. Pro tip: Let the chicken sit for 5 minutes after coating for maximum crispiness.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken in batches for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain that perfect crunch.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped chilies. Stir well to combine all those aromatic flavors.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return all chicken to the pan, pour the sauce over, and toss to coat evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Finish with sesame oil and green onions for that authentic touch.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (serves 4):
- Calories: 375
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Vitamin C: 15% DV
- Iron: 10% DV
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For a lighter version of this Sweet Chilli Chicken, try air-frying the coated chicken pieces instead of pan-frying. Use a low-sugar sweet chili sauce or make your own with stevia. For a gluten-free option, substitute tamari for soy sauce and ensure your sweet chili sauce is certified gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant Spicy Sweet Chicken over steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice. For a complete meal, pair with steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables. Garnish with extra sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges for a restaurant-quality presentation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan: Cook in batches for proper crispiness.
- Cooking the sauce too long: This can reduce it too much and make it overly thick.
- Adding sauce to cold chicken: Keep chicken warm before combining for best sauce adhesion.
- Under-seasoning: Taste and adjust sauce before combining with chicken.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
This Sweet Chilli Chicken keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispiness. The dish can be frozen for up to 1 month, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Conclusion
This crispy Sweet Chilli Chicken recipe offers the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite. It’s versatile enough for both casual family dinners and special occasions. Give this recipe a try tonight and discover your new go-to chicken dish! Share your results on social media and tag us with #SweetChilliChicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breast works well but cooks faster, so reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes to avoid dryness.
How can I make this recipe less spicy?
Reduce or omit the fresh chilies and use a milder sweet chili sauce. The honey helps balance the heat.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Not by default, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and checking your sweet chili sauce ingredients.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator until needed.
