Irresistible Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe

A Perfect Balance of Sweet and Spicy

Sweet Chili Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines crispy, golden-brown chicken with a sticky, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce. The balance of flavors makes it an irresistible favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether served over rice, with noodles, or as an appetizer, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Flavorful – The chicken is fried to perfection, creating a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the sauce.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process make this recipe accessible to everyone.
• Versatile – Serve it as a main dish, over a salad, or even in a wrap.
• Perfect Sweet-Spicy Balance – The sweet chili sauce offers a tangy, mildly spicy kick without being overpowering.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup cornstarch
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the Sweet Chili Sauce:

• ½ cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional for extra spice)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (slurry)

For Garnish:

• Sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, whisk the egg and milk together to create a batter base.
2. In another bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip the chicken pieces into the egg mixture, then coat them in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove the chicken and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 3: Make the Sweet Chili Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sriracha (if using), garlic, and ginger.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry.
3. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

1. Place the fried chicken in a large bowl and pour the sauce over it. Toss gently to coat evenly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
2. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

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Variations and Customizations

• Baked Version: Instead of frying, bake the coated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower for a plant-based twist.
• Extra Crunch: Double-fry the chicken for an even crispier texture.

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Servings and Cooking Time

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat for 5 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes to maintain crispiness.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked, uncoated chicken for up to 2 months. Reheat and toss in sauce before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level is mild, but you can adjust it by adding or omitting sriracha.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and pat dry before coating.

What can I serve with sweet chili chicken?

It pairs well with jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

You can fry the chicken in advance and store it separately from the sauce, then toss them together before serving.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Use a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil with a high smoke point.

Can I use store-bought sweet chili sauce?

Yes, but homemade sauce gives better depth of flavor.

How do I make the dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and replace flour with a gluten-free alternative.

Why is my chicken not crispy?

Ensure the oil is hot enough, and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Not recommended, as the chicken won’t stay crispy.

What’s a good substitute for rice vinegar?

You can use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar in a pinch.

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Conclusion

This Irresistible Sweet Chili Chicken recipe delivers the perfect combination of crispy, juicy chicken with a sticky, flavorful sauce. Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry, it’s a versatile dish that suits any occasion. Serve it with rice, noodles, or even as an appetizer, and enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite!

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