If you’re craving something quick, bold, and downright irresistible, this Sweet Chili Chicken delivers a mouthwatering balance of sticky sweetness, gentle heat, and savory notes that will have everyone at your table coming back for seconds. Loaded with tender chunks of chicken, vibrant veggies, and a glossy, flavor-packed sauce, it’s the kind of weeknight favorite you’ll make again and again. Sweet Chili Chicken has a special way of making even the simplest dinner feel upbeat and a little bit special—without breaking a sweat.

Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of everyday ingredients for this Sweet Chili Chicken, but each one plays a starring role. From the umami of soy sauce to the brightness of bell pepper, these ingredients create a harmony of flavors and textures that’s truly addictive.

Chicken breast: Bite-sized pieces ensure tenderness and soak up all the delicious sauce.
Sweet chili sauce: The sweet and spicy hero that turns ordinary chicken into something unforgettable.
Soy sauce: Adds depth, umami, and savory balance.
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce and gives the chicken a dreamy, glossy coating.
Olive oil: For sautéing everything to golden, fragrant perfection.
Minced garlic: Brings a punch of aromatic flavor that pairs so well with the chili sauce.
Minced ginger: Lends a touch of warmth and a little zing every bite needs.
Bell pepper: Sliced for crunch, color, and a subtle sweetness that rounds out the dish.
Broccoli florets: Adds a burst of green and a tender crisp bite that plays perfectly with the chicken.
Salt and pepper: Essential for fine-tuning the seasoning to your taste.
Sesame seeds: For garnish—adds a nutty crunch that’s impossible to resist.
Green onions: Fresh, sliced, and sprinkled on top for a pop of color and sharpness.

How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and cornstarch in a bowl until smooth and glossy. Add your chicken pieces, toss them until every morsel is beautifully coated, and let them marinate for 15 minutes. This brief soak helps the sauce cling to the chicken and ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the marinated chicken, spreading it out so each piece gets a chance to brown. Cook for about 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden on the outside and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside; resist the urge to nibble—it’s even better when finished!

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a dash more oil if needed and toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Let them sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the bell pepper and broccoli. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often, until the veggies are just tender but still bright and crisp. Their color and bite are essential to the Sweet Chili Chicken’s appeal.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the chicken (and any precious juices) to the skillet. Pour over any leftover marinade from the bowl, making sure nothing is wasted. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly and coat all the ingredients in a glossy, appetizing layer.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Transfer your Sweet Chili Chicken to a serving platter or straight to bowls. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and a flurry of green onions. The garnishes are not just pretty—they add a wonderful burst of freshness and crunch.

How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken

Garnishes

Don’t skip the final flourish: a scattering of sesame seeds and chopped green onions. They provide both crunch and a fresh, aromatic finish. Feel free to add a wedge of lime on the side for a hint of zesty brightness—it’s a tiny detail that makes a big difference.

Side Dishes

For a full meal, serve your Sweet Chili Chicken over fluffy white rice, jasmine rice, or even brown rice—the grains soak up all the sauce beautifully. Steamed noodles or cauliflower rice are great alternatives. A simple cucumber salad or quick-pickled veggies will add contrast and keep everything feeling light and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress? Turn Sweet Chili Chicken into lettuce wraps for a fun, hands-on dinner. Or serve it family-style, piled on a large platter surrounded by stir-fried greens and citrus slices. If you’re entertaining, try skewering the chicken and veggies to transform them into party-friendly bites!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Sweet Chili Chicken keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or quick work lunches. The flavors deepen as they sit, so every bite remains just as enticing.

Freezing

You can freeze Sweet Chili Chicken! Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for more, let it thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To warm up, gently reheat Sweet Chili Chicken in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, use the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each interval. The key is to heat it gently so the chicken stays moist and the veggies retain their texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them a fantastic swap for chicken breast. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces and follow the recipe as written.

Is there a way to make Sweet Chili Chicken spicier?

If you crave extra heat, stir in some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha when sautéing the veggies. You can also look for a spicy sweet chili sauce or add a finely sliced fresh chili pepper to the mix.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Pat it dry, cut into cubes, and cook as you would the chicken. Use vegetarian “oyster” sauce or extra soy sauce as needed for flavor.

What’s the best way to keep the chicken tender?

Marinating the chicken with the cornstarch helps lock in moisture and create a tender texture. Be careful not to overcook it in the skillet—remove once fully cooked, and let the resting juices do their magic.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, Sweet Chili Chicken is easy to scale up. Simply double all the ingredients, and make sure to use a large enough skillet or work in batches so everything browns nicely and cooks evenly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a dinner that’s as bright and lively as it is satisfying, give Sweet Chili Chicken a try. It’s quick, colorful, and sure to become a staple in your kitchen—don’t be surprised if it earns a permanent spot in your weekly meal rotation!