Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Crispy & Sticky Delight

If you’re craving a flavorful, easy-to-make meal that feels like takeout but tastes homemade, this Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe is your new go-to. Bursting with sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun meal prep idea. With its crispy chicken exterior and sticky chili glaze, it delivers the ultimate comfort food experience.

You’ll love how simple, affordable, and customizable this dish is. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal right at home, and you’ll know exactly what’s going into it. Plus, once you understand how to get your chicken ultra crispy, you’ll never go back to soggy takeout again.

One of the real stars of this recipe is the sweet chili sauce. You can use a store-bought version, or go the extra mile by making your own homemade sweet chili sauce—either way, the sticky, tangy glaze will transform your chicken into a mouthwatering masterpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Chili Chicken

• Quick and easy: Ready in 20 minutes
• One-pan recipe: Minimal cleanup
• Family favorite: Kid- and adult-approved
• Versatile: Can be served with rice, noodles, or veggies
• Better than takeout: More flavor, less oil, no mystery ingredients

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken

• 600g (1.3 lbs) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp sea salt flakes
• ½ tsp cracked black pepper
• 1 egg
• ½ cup (60g) cornstarch
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola recommended)

For the Sweet Chili Sauce

• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp minced ginger
• ½ cup sweet chili sauce
• ¼ cup soy sauce or tamari
• ¼ cup rice vinegar (or white/apple cider/lime juice)

To Serve

• Steamed rice
• Sliced scallions
• Sesame seeds
• Optional: sliced cucumbers, steamed greens

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

• In a bowl, combine chicken with egg, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cornstarch.
• Mix until chicken is well coated and forms a paste-like coating.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

• Heat oil in a heavy pan over medium-high heat.
• Fry chicken pieces in batches for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through.
• Drain on paper towels and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

• In a separate pan, combine all sauce ingredients.
• Simmer on medium-low heat for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine

• Toss fried chicken in the warm sauce until evenly coated.
• Serve hot over steamed rice, topped with scallions and sesame seeds.

Alternate Cooking Methods

Air Fryer Method

• Skip cornstarch in the initial mix.
• After coating in egg and spices, dip each piece into cornstarch.
• Place in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray with oil.
• Cook at 200°C (400°F) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway.

Oven Method

• Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
• Place coated chicken on a lined baking tray.
• Spray with oil and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping once.

Variations and Customizations

• Low-carb: Serve with cauliflower rice
• Extra spicy: Add Sriracha or red pepper flakes
• Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce
• Vegetarian: Substitute with tofu or cauliflower florets

Perfect Side Dishes

Pair your Sweet Chili Chicken with:

• Steamed jasmine rice
• Stir-fried noodles
• Bok choy, broccoli, or choy sum
• Pickled cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch
• Fried rice for a hearty twist

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~420
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 10g

Note: Nutrition varies depending on portion size and ingredients.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep ahead: Marinate and coat chicken, store in fridge for 24 hours
• Store leftovers: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat: Use a skillet or air fryer to regain crispiness
• Avoid microwaving: It softens the crispy coating

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the pan: Causes steaming instead of frying
• Skipping cornstarch: No crisp = no crunch
• Overcooking the sauce: Can burn and become bitter
• Not draining fried chicken: Results in oily texture

FAQs

Can I make sweet chili chicken ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results, fry and sauce the chicken just before serving.

How do I make sweet chili sauce from scratch?
Combine vinegar, sugar, garlic, red chili flakes, and water. Simmer until thickened.

What vegetables go best with sweet chili chicken?
Asian greens like bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas are great. Cucumbers also add a fresh contrast.

Can I make this dish in the air fryer?
Absolutely! It’s a healthier option and still delivers great crispiness.

Is sweet chili chicken spicy?
It has a mild kick—great for most spice levels. You can adjust the heat as needed.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe is everything you want in a fast, satisfying dinner—crispy, sticky, sweet, and savory. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or adding it to your meal prep rotation, it’s bound to be a hit. Customize it, serve it your way, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a weekly favorite.

Print