Easy Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe (Sticky, Sweet & Spicy!)

Have you ever wondered what makes a dish truly irresistible, the kind that leaves you craving for more with every bite? Enter the tantalizing world of Sweet Chili Chicken, a culinary masterpiece that seamlessly blends the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.

Ingredients List

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute with rice flour for a gluten-free option)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil for frying)
• Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Timing

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes (that’s a whopping 45% faster than the average sweet chili chicken recipe!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a shallow bowl, combine the flour with salt and pepper. In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In a third shallow bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs. Dip the chicken pieces first in the flour mixture, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the panko breadcrumbs, coating them evenly.

Step 2: Make the Sweet Chili Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Working in batches, fry the breaded chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Once all the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the sweet chili sauce mixture over the chicken and toss gently to coat evenly. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice or your favorite side dish.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
Calories: 420
Total Fat: 16g (20% DV)
Saturated Fat: 2.5g (13% DV)
Cholesterol: 125mg (42% DV)
Sodium: 1180mg (51% DV)
Total Carbohydrates: 41g (15% DV)
Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% DV)
Total Sugars: 16g
Protein: 27g (54% DV)

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a lighter version, consider baking the chicken instead of frying. Swap the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or almond flour, and use panko breadcrumbs made from whole grains. You can also reduce the amount of sweet chili sauce or opt for a lower-sugar variety. Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for added nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

This sweet chili chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Serve it over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or zesty cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. It also pairs beautifully with stir-fried veggies or a crisp Asian-inspired salad. For a fun twist, try wrapping the chicken in lettuce cups or using it as a filling for tacos or burritos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the pan: Fry the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking and prevent soggy texture.
2. Skimping on the coating: Thoroughly coat the chicken pieces in the flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixtures for a crispy exterior.
3. Overcooked chicken: Keep an eye on the cooking time and remove the chicken as soon as it’s golden brown and cooked through to prevent dryness.
4. Imbalanced sauce: Taste the sweet chili sauce before tossing with the chicken and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftover sweet chili chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet or baking dish and heat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For best results, avoid reheating the chicken multiple times to maintain its texture and flavor.

Conclusion

With its perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, this Sweet Chili Chicken recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience. Give it a try and let us know how you like to enjoy this delectable dish!

If you’re craving more mouthwatering recipes like this, be sure to check out our sweet chili chicken recipe collection for even more culinary inspiration!