Sweet Chili Chicken

Sweet Chili Chicken is a fantastic dish that perfectly blends sweet and spicy flavors, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This easy-to-prepare recipe features tender chicken and colorful veggies, all roasted on a single sheet pan. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends, this meal is sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s palate.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• Sweet Chili Sauce
• Garnish
• How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet
• Step 4: Bake
• Step 5: Make Sweet Chili Sauce
• Step 6: Combine & Serve
• How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken
• Over Rice
• In Tacos
• On Salads
• With Cauliflower Rice
• As Meal Prep
• With Noodles
• How to Perfect Sweet Chili Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Sweet Chili Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Sweet Chili Chicken
• Reheating Sweet Chili Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Sweet Chili Chicken?
• What other vegetables can I add to Sweet Chili Chicken?
• How do I customize the spice level of Sweet Chili Chicken?
• Can I make this dish gluten-free?
• How can I serve Sweet Chili Chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This sheet pan meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet chili sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a mouthwatering taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the veggies to your preference, ensuring everyone gets their favorite flavors.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and colorful vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying without sacrificing taste.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything on one baking sheet means less time spent washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make Sweet Chili Chicken successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Large mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and crispy edges on your chicken and vegetables.
• Large mixing bowl: This allows you to mix the chicken with seasonings easily, ensuring every piece is well-coated.
• Saucepan: A saucepan helps you prepare the sweet chili sauce without mess or spills.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 0.75-1 lb chicken breasts, cubed (see notes)
• 1 Tbsp corn starch
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ tsp red pepper, more or less to taste
• 1 small red bell pepper
• 1 small orange bell pepper, or any color of choice
• 1 jalapeño, sliced
• 1 Tbsp olive oil

Sweet Chili Sauce

• 1 Tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• ¾ cup sweet chili sauce, more as needed
• 1-2 Tbsp honey

Garnish

• 1 lime, sliced
• 3 Tbsp green onions, chopped

How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375ºF. Preparing the chicken by cutting it into uniform 1-inch cubes ensures even cooking throughout.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken with corn starch, black pepper, salt, and red pepper. Mix until all pieces are evenly coated.

Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Drizzle olive oil onto a large baking sheet. Spread the seasoned chicken evenly across it without overlapping. Add sliced bell peppers and jalapeños around the chicken.

Step 4: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165ºF for safe eating.

Step 5: Make Sweet Chili Sauce

While the chicken bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced ginger and garlic; let them simmer for about one minute. Stir in sweet chili sauce and honey, allowing it to simmer for another minute before removing it from heat.

Step 6: Combine & Serve

Once baked, pour the sweet chili sauce over the chicken and mix thoroughly. You may return it to the oven briefly if desired or serve immediately! Enjoy over rice or salads, garnished with green onions and lime slices for added freshness.

With these straightforward steps, you’ll create delicious Sweet Chili Chicken that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken

Serving Sweet Chili Chicken can be as fun as preparing it. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken over fluffy white rice or brown rice for a hearty meal. The rice absorbs the sweet chili sauce beautifully.

In Tacos

• Use soft tortillas to make delicious tacos. Add fresh veggies and a drizzle of extra sauce for a tasty twist.

On Salads

• Top your favorite greens with Sweet Chili Chicken for a refreshing and healthy option. Consider adding nuts or seeds for crunch.

With Cauliflower Rice

• For a low-carb alternative, serve the chicken over cauliflower rice. This is an excellent choice for those watching their carbs.

As Meal Prep

• Divide portions into meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy!

With Noodles

• Serve the chicken over stir-fried noodles or cold noodle salads to create a satisfying dish that’s full of flavor.

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How to Perfect Sweet Chili Chicken

To achieve the best Sweet Chili Chicken, consider these simple tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use even-sized pieces: Cutting the chicken into uniform cubes ensures even cooking, leading to tender meat.
• Marinate briefly: Letting the chicken sit with seasonings for at least 15 minutes can boost flavor without much effort.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of red pepper or jalapeño based on your heat preference.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spacing out the chicken and veggies allows them to roast properly, preventing steaming.
• Add fresh herbs: Garnish with cilantro or basil after serving for an extra layer of freshness.
• Experiment with veggies: Try adding different vegetables like snap peas or carrots for variety in texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Chili Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Sweet Chili Chicken can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A classic side that adds color and nutrients; steam until tender-crisp.
2. Fried Rice: Flavored with soy sauce and vegetables, fried rice complements the sweet flavors perfectly.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light and nutritious option; toss quinoa with veggies and a light dressing for added freshness.
4. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with sliced cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame oil balances the sweetness of the chicken.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the spicy notes of the dish; roast until caramelized.
7. Coleslaw: A crunchy side that brings a creamy contrast; add some sesame seeds for an Asian touch.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can bring a refreshing finish to your meal; use seasonal fruits for best results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sweet Chili Chicken, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken – This can lead to dry and tough meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165ºF.
• Inconsistent vegetable sizes – Cutting veggies into different sizes can cause uneven cooking. Aim for uniform pieces for even roasting.
• Skipping the marinating step – Not allowing the chicken to sit with seasonings can result in bland flavor. Marinate for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
• Not preheating the oven – Failing to preheat can affect cooking times and texture. Always preheat your oven to 375ºF before baking.
• Using the wrong baking sheet – A crowded sheet pan can steam instead of roast food. Make sure your ingredients have space for proper browning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Sweet Chili Chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Make sure it cools down before sealing it to maintain freshness.

Freezing Sweet Chili Chicken

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy identification.

Reheating Sweet Chili Chicken

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350ºF and bake until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely, heating in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Sweet Chili Chicken?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and offer more moisture and flavor. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

What other vegetables can I add to Sweet Chili Chicken?

You can add chopped broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms for more variety and nutrition.

How do I customize the spice level of Sweet Chili Chicken?

To adjust the spice, you can increase or decrease the amount of red pepper flakes or jalapeños used in the recipe.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply choose a gluten-free sweet chili sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How can I serve Sweet Chili Chicken?

Serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or mix it into salads for a delicious meal option any night of the week.

Final Thoughts

Sweet Chili Chicken is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or adjust the spice level based on your taste. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for busy weeks ahead. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors!

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