Easy Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe

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Sticky, sweet, and just the right amount of heat—this Easy Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe brings irresistible flavor to your dinner table with minimal fuss. Juicy, golden-seared chicken thighs get coated in a glossy glaze made from sweet chili sauce, garlic, soy, and honey. It’s a crowd-pleasing combo that never fails.

Perfect for weeknight meals or impressing weekend guests, this dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, roasted veggies, or even tucked into lettuce wraps. You’ll be amazed how quickly this vibrant, saucy chicken comes together—and how quickly it disappears.

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What Kind of Chicken Works Best for Sweet Chili Chicken?

For the most flavorful and juicy results, boneless skinless chicken thighs are the top choice. They cook evenly, absorb the sauce beautifully, and stay tender even after searing. However, chicken breasts or even tenders work just as well—just adjust cooking times to prevent drying out.

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Ingredients for the Easy Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe

Chicken Thighs – These are the star. They offer rich flavor and tenderness that holds up under the sauce.

Sweet Chili Sauce – The main base of the glaze. Sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy, it gives the dish its signature flavor.

Soy Sauce – Adds depth and a savory umami element to balance the sweetness.

Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances the overall aroma and bite.

Honey – Helps thicken the sauce and intensifies the sweet notes.

Rice Vinegar – Brightens the sauce and adds just enough acidity to balance.

Cornstarch Slurry (cornstarch + water) – This mixture thickens the sauce to coat the chicken perfectly.

Green Onions & Sesame Seeds – Optional but highly recommended for a garnish that adds texture and visual appeal.

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How To Make the Easy Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and sear the chicken thighs for 4–5 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Pour the slurry into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and turns glossy—this should take about 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon the sauce over each piece and let everything cook together for another 2–3 minutes so the chicken can soak in the flavor.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or alongside roasted veggies.

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Best Ways to Serve and Store Sweet Chili Chicken

This sticky, savory-sweet chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it over fluffy jasmine rice, tucked into warm tortillas, or paired with roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots. It also makes a delicious filling for lettuce wraps or rice bowls.

Leftovers? Sweet chili chicken stores well! Keep any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra sauce to keep the chicken moist and flavorful. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for sweet chili sauce?

You can mix equal parts of honey and sriracha, adding a dash of rice vinegar and garlic for a quick DIY version. It won’t be exactly the same, but it works in a pinch.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! The sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Sear the chicken fresh and toss everything together when you’re ready to eat.

Is this recipe spicy?

It’s mildly spicy—perfect for most palates. If you’re heat-sensitive, opt for a mild sweet chili sauce. Want more kick? Add red pepper flakes or sliced chili.

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, just be careful not to overcook them. Slice them into thinner cutlets for even cooking.

Can I bake instead of pan-fry?

Definitely. Sear the chicken first for flavor, then bake at 375°F with the sauce poured over until everything is bubbly and caramelized.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and double-check your sweet chili sauce brand to ensure it’s gluten-free.

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