There’s a certain joy in the crunch of perfectly fried chicken, and when it’s enveloped in a sweet and tangy chili sauce, it’s simply irresistible. I discovered this Sweet Chili Chicken recipe one evening while craving something flavorful yet easy to whip up. In just 25 minutes, my kitchen transformed into a vibrant escape, filled with the tantalizing scent of garlic and the vibrant pop of sesame seeds.
Whether you’re looking to spice up a weeknight dinner or impress guests with a dish that tastes gourmet but requires minimal effort, this recipe is your go-to. Each bite delivers a delicious balance of sweetness and heat, and what’s more, it’s adaptable! Serve it over rice, toss it in a salad, or enjoy it on its own; the possibilities are endless. Trust me, once you make this dish, you’ll never want to reach for takeout again!
Why is Sweet Chili Chicken a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and spicy kick of the chili sauce pairs perfectly with your crunchy chicken, creating a taste that dances on your palate.
Quick to Prepare: In just 25 minutes, you can serve up a gourmet delight that feels like a special occasion meal without the fuss.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether over rice, in a salad, or solo, it’s adaptable to any meal plan or craving.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish garners rave reviews from family and friends alike, making it the perfect choice for gatherings.
Home-Cooked Goodness: Say goodbye to bland fast food; this recipe brings all the flavor without the artificial additives.
Try this Sweet Chili Chicken for an unforgettable dining experience!
Sweet Chili Chicken Ingredients
• Get ready to indulge with this delicious recipe!
For the Chicken
- 12 oz. skinless boneless chicken breast or thigh – Cut into small pieces for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- 1 egg white – This helps create that irresistible crispy layer when frying.
For the Batter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Provides the base for a light and crunchy exterior on your chicken.
- 1/4 cup cornstarch – Enhances crispiness, so your fried chicken achieves that perfect golden brown.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – Adds a bit of lift to the batter, making it light and airy.
- 1/2 cup ice-cold water – The cold temperature is key to keeping the batter crispy; don’t skip this step!
For the Sauce
- 4 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce – This is where the magic happens, bringing the signature sweet and tangy flavor to your sweet chili chicken.
- 1 teaspoon lime juice – A splash of acid brightens up the sauce, balancing all those delicious flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor into the dish.
- 1 pinch salt – Enhances the overall taste and brings all the flavors together.
For Frying
- Oil for deep-frying – Choose oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil, for the perfect fry.
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil – Used for stir-frying the garlic and chicken in the final steps.
For Garnishing
- 1/2 teaspoon white sesame – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to your dish.
- 1/2 tablespoon chopped cilantro leaves – A fresh, herbaceous touch that enhances the presentation and flavor.
Dive into this Sweet Chili Chicken adventure—you won’t be disappointed!
How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken
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Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, egg white, and ice-cold water. Mix until a smooth batter forms. Make sure it’s free of lumps for the best fry!
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Coat the Chicken: Add the chopped chicken pieces into the batter, ensuring each piece is well-coated. The batter will help create that crispy crunch we all love once fried.
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Heat the Oil: In a wok or skillet, heat about two inches of oil over medium-high heat. To check if it’s ready, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
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Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the battered chicken to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken and place it on a dish lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
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Sauté the Garlic: Clean out the wok or skillet and return it to the heat. Add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil, then stir-fry the minced garlic until fragrant and lightly golden, taking care not to burn it.
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Combine with Sauce: Toss the fried chicken back into the skillet with the garlic. Pour in the sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and a pinch of salt, stirring well to coat each piece thoroughly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
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Garnish and Serve: Plate your sizzling sweet chili chicken and garnish it with white sesame seeds and chopped cilantro leaves. Serve immediately for the best flavor and crunch!
Optional: Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Chili Chicken
Fridge: Keep leftover sweet chili chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or a skillet to maintain its crispy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked sweet chili chicken in a tightly sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore its crispiness, rather than using a microwave.
Avoiding Sogginess: To prevent frying batter from becoming soggy, store the chicken without the sauce and add the sauce just before serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet Chili Chicken pieces are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the batter and coat the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, mix the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, egg white, and ice-cold water until smooth, then add the cut chicken pieces. Cover and refrigerate to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the oil, fry the chicken until golden brown, and then sauté it with garlic and sweet chili sauce as per the recipe. This way, you’ll enjoy the delightful crunch and flavors of your Sweet Chili Chicken with minimal effort and just as deliciously!
Expert Tips for Sweet Chili Chicken
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Perfect Batter Consistency: Ensure your batter is smooth and lump-free to achieve that golden crispy coating while frying the chicken.
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Oil Temperature Check: Always test the oil temperature with a small amount of batter. It should sizzle immediately; too cool oil will result in greasy chicken.
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Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying. Fry the chicken in batches to maintain an even temperature and ensure crispiness.
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Flavor Enhancement: For a deeper taste, try marinating the chicken in a bit of sweet chili sauce and lime juice before battering.
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Garnishing Joy: Add fresh herbs like cilantro right before serving to enhance the dish’s aroma and color while complementing the sweet chili chicken beautifully.
What to Serve with Sweet Chili Chicken?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this flavor-packed dish with delightful sides and drinks that perfectly complement its sweet and spicy notes.
- Fragrant Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and aromatic, jasmine rice soaks up the sweet chili sauce beautifully, making it a perfect base for your chicken.
- Crispy Asian Slaw: A crunchy medley of cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers tossed in a tangy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
- Garlic Butter Noodles: These noodles are simple yet delicious, providing a savory backdrop to the vibrant flavors of your sweet chili chicken.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and packed with nutrients, steamed broccoli adds a healthy, fresh element that balances the sweetness of the dish.
- Zesty Mango Salad: Combining sweet mango, cucumber, and a hint of lime creates a refreshing side that enhances the flavors and adds a tropical twist.
- Cold Cucumber Soup: A chilled cucumber soup offers a cooling effect against the spice of the chicken. Its light texture beautifully complements the meal.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: Delightful and crunchy, these rolls filled with vegetables provide an additional layer of texture and flavor, making your meal more dynamic.
- Sesame Seed Rolls: Soft and fluffy, these rolls provide a lovely way to scoop up the chicken and sauce while offering a nutty flavor that pairs well.
- Chilled Coconut Water: Light and hydrating, this drink pairs perfectly, balancing the heat from the chili sauce and refreshing your palate.
- Lime Sorbet: For a light and flavorful dessert, lime sorbet serves as a tangy finish, complementing the dish’s sweet elements wonderfully.
Sweet Chili Chicken Variations
Feel free to switch things up and make this dish your own with these fun ideas!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and cornstarch for a crispy, delicious alternative.
The chicken remains just as juicy and golden, perfect for those with dietary restrictions. -
Spicy Kick: Add chopped fresh chili or a dash of cayenne pepper to the batter for a fiery twist.
This little heat boost will bring a whole new dimension to the sweet chili sauce. -
Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with tofu, tempeh, or even cauliflower for a hearty, plant-based version.
When fried, these options soak up the sweet and spicy flavors just beautifully. -
Citrus Zing: Mix in orange or lemon zest into the batter for a bright, zesty flavor that complements the sweetness.
It’s a refreshing twist that might just become your favorite! -
Nutty Flavor: Introduce crushed peanuts or cashews into the fried chicken for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
The contrast between the crispy chicken and the crunchy nuts makes every bite satisfying! -
Herbal Infusion: Experiment by adding dried herbs like thyme or oregano into the batter for an aromatic depth.
These simple additions can elevate your dish with new herbal notes, making it more gourmet. -
Honey Drizzle: After tossing the fried chicken, drizzle with extra honey for an unexpected sweet finish.
The added sweetness enhances the overall flavor while giving a glistening presentation. -
Asian Flair: Incorporate a splash of soy sauce or hoisin sauce into the sweet chili sauce for deeper umami flavors.
It creates a rich backdrop for the sweetness, enlivening the dish with complexity.
Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for sweet chili chicken?
Absolutely! I recommend skinless boneless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Look for pieces that are firm and have a pinkish hue, without any dark spots or unpleasant smells. Freshness is key!
How should I store leftover sweet chili chicken?
For storing, keep your sweet chili chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will remain good for about 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make it soggy.
Can I freeze sweet chili chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the cooked chicken cool completely, then place it in a tightly sealed freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best results.
What’s the best way to reheat sweet chili chicken?
For optimal crispiness, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the chicken for about 10-15 minutes. This method ensures it stays crunchy. Avoid microwaving it, as that can make it chewy and soggy.
Are there any dietary considerations for people with allergies?
Very! If you’re serving this dish to someone with gluten sensitivities, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. For those allergic to sesame, simply omit the white sesame seeds from the recipe, and you can still enjoy the flavorful dish. Always inquire about individual allergies before serving.
Crispy Sweet Chili Chicken That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, egg white, and ice-cold water. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
- Add the chopped chicken pieces into the batter, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- In a wok or skillet, heat about two inches of oil over medium-high heat. To check if it’s ready, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
- Carefully add the battered chicken to the hot oil in batches, frying for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Clean out the wok or skillet and return it to the heat. Add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil, then stir-fry the minced garlic until fragrant.
- Toss the fried chicken back into the skillet with the garlic. Pour in the sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and a pinch of salt, stirring well.
- Plate your sizzling sweet chili chicken and garnish it with white sesame seeds and chopped cilantro leaves.