Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe: Ultimate 5-Ingredient Crispy

Name: Sweet Chili Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1.5-2 lbs Chicken breast, boneless skinless (cut into bite-sized pieces); 1 cup Sweet chili sauce; 2 tbsp Soy sauce; 4 cloves Fresh garlic (minced); 1 tbsp Fresh ginger (minced); 2 tbsp Vegetable oil (for frying); 0.25 cup Cornstarch (for coating); Salt & black pepper (to taste); 2 Green onions (sliced, for garnish); 1 tbsp Sesame seeds (toasted, for garnish); Jasmine rice (for serving)

Jump to Recipe

Sweet chili chicken recipe with crispy coating and amazing glaze. Easy homestyle chili recipe ready in 30 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.

Hi, I’m Linda, and welcome to Tasty at Home—where bold flavors meet everyday kitchens. Let me tell you, one bite of this sweet chili chicken transported me straight back to a bustling Phoenix food truck festival last summer. The vendor’s secret? Well, that sticky-sweet glaze that clings to perfectly crispy chicken like honey on warm biscuits.

After burning through three batches (oops!), I finally cracked the code. Moreover, this recipe transforms ordinary chicken breast into restaurant-quality magic. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this sweet chili chicken recipe delivers every single time.

Man, oh man, the aroma alone will have your neighbors knocking on your door. Furthermore, I’ve tested this recipe with my pickiest eaters—including my teenager who lives on pizza. Guess what happened? They asked for seconds.

What Makes This Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe Special?

This isn’t your average eat chili recipe. Instead, it combines the best of Asian-inspired flavors with American cooking techniques. The secret lies in the double-coating method that creates an incredibly crispy exterior.

Additionally, this homestyle chili recipe uses simple ingredients you probably have in your pantry right now. Julia Child always emphasized the importance of proper technique over fancy ingredients, and this recipe proves her point beautifully.

Essential Ingredients for Sweet Chili Chicken

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Chicken Breast	1.5-2 lbs, boneless skinless	Tender protein base
Sweet Chili Sauce	1 cup	Sweet-spicy flavor foundation
Soy Sauce	2 tablespoons	Umami depth
Fresh Garlic	4 cloves, minced	Aromatic complexity
Fresh Ginger	1 tablespoon, minced	Warming spice
Vegetable Oil	2 tablespoons	Frying medium
Cornstarch	¼ cup	Crispy coating
Salt & Black Pepper	To taste	Seasoning
Green Onions	2, sliced	Fresh garnish
Sesame Seeds	1 tablespoon	Nutty crunch
Jasmine Rice	For serving	Sauce absorption

Shopping Tips for US Grocery Stores

First, look for sweet chili sauce in the Asian foods aisle at major chains like Kroger or Safeway. Popular brands include Mae Ploy or A Taste of Thai. However, if you can’t find it, check the condiment section near the barbecue sauces.

Second, choose chicken breasts that feel firm and have a pinkish color. Avoid any packages with excessive liquid, as this indicates the chicken has been frozen and thawed.

Bold Add-ins for Amazing Chili Variations

Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Citrus Twist: Include 2 tablespoons lime juice
Honey Sweet: Substitute 2 tablespoons honey for extra sweetness
Sriracha Heat: Mix in 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce

International Substitutions

Original	Substitute	Notes
Sweet Chili Sauce	¾ cup ketchup + 2 tbsp honey + 1 tsp red pepper flakes	Homemade version
Soy Sauce	Tamari or coconut aminos	Gluten-free options
Jasmine Rice	Quinoa or cauliflower rice	Low-carb alternatives

Quality Indicators: Selecting the Best Ingredients

When choosing chicken, press gently on the package. Fresh chicken should spring back immediately. Additionally, check the sell-by date and choose packages from the back of the refrigerated case where temperatures stay most consistent.

For sweet chili sauce, read the ingredient list. Quality brands list chili peppers, sugar, and vinegar as the first three ingredients. Avoid varieties with high fructose corn syrup as the primary sweetener.

Equipment and Preparation Steps

Essential Equipment

You don’t need fancy gadgets for this chili homemade masterpiece. A large skillet or wok works perfectly. However, if you don’t have a wok, a heavy-bottomed pan distributes heat evenly.

DIY Alternative: No meat mallet? Use a rolling pin wrapped in plastic wrap to pound chicken to even thickness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinating the Chicken Magic

Start by cutting chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and maximum sauce absorption. Next, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and fresh ginger in a mixing bowl.

Add chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure every piece gets coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Nevertheless, if time allows, marinate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor penetration.

Pro Tip: Save about 3 tablespoons of marinade separately before adding raw chicken. You’ll use this for the final glaze.

Creating the Perfect Crispy Coating

In another bowl, combine cornstarch with a pinch of salt and pepper. This creates the foundation for that incredible crunch we’re after. Remove marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for 10 minutes.

Using a slotted spoon, lift chicken pieces from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Then, dredge each piece in the seasoned cornstarch, ensuring complete coverage. The coating should stick without being too thick.

Cooking Technique for Restaurant Results

Heat vegetable oil in your largest skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small piece of cornstarch sizzles immediately upon contact. Thomas Keller taught us that proper oil temperature makes all the difference in achieving crispy results.

Cook chicken in single layers, avoiding overcrowding. This prevents steaming and ensures each piece develops that golden crust. Fry for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Cooking Mistake Alert: I once tried cooking all the chicken at once in my enthusiasm. Result? Soggy, disappointing chicken that looked more like boiled than fried. Always cook in batches for best results.

Transfer cooked chicken to paper towel-lined plates to drain excess oil. This step keeps the coating crispy while you finish the remaining batches.

The Glazing Game-Changer

Reduce heat to medium and add the reserved marinade to the same skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when ready.

Return all fried chicken to the skillet and toss gently with the simmering glaze. Cook for 2-3 minutes more, letting flavors meld together beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Expert Tips for Perfect Sweet Chili Chicken

Temperature Control Secrets

Keep oil temperature between 350-375°F for optimal crispiness. Too hot, and the coating burns before the chicken cooks through. Too cool, and you’ll end up with greasy, soggy results.

Texture Perfection Tips

Pat chicken completely dry before marinating. Excess moisture prevents the cornstarch from adhering properly. Also, let coated chicken rest for 5 minutes before frying to help the coating set.

Flavor Enhancement Techniques

Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes before garnishing. This simple step intensifies their nutty flavor dramatically. Similarly, slice green onions just before serving to maintain their bright color and fresh bite.

Creative Variations for Every Occasion

Holiday Sweet Chili Chicken

For Thanksgiving leftovers, substitute turkey breast for chicken. The cooking method remains identical, but reduce cooking time by about 1 minute per side since turkey tends to dry out faster.

Game Day Version

Double the recipe and serve as appetizers with toothpicks. Cut chicken into smaller, pop-in-your-mouth pieces. Additionally, provide extra sweet chili sauce on the side for dipping.

Healthy Makeover

Use an air fryer at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through. Lightly spray coated chicken with cooking oil for browning. This method reduces oil content significantly while maintaining crispiness.

Regional Twists

Southern Style: Add 1 teaspoon smoked paprika to the cornstarch coating California Fresh: Serve over mixed greens instead of rice Tex-Mex Fusion: Include 1 tablespoon taco seasoning in the marinade

Storage and Make-Ahead Advice

Storage Method	Duration	Best Practices
Refrigerator	3-4 days	Store in airtight container
Freezer	Up to 3 months	Freeze before glazing for best texture
Make-ahead marinade	24 hours	Marinate overnight for deeper flavor

Reheat leftover sweet chili chicken in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, which makes the coating soggy.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Serve this amazing chili creation over fluffy jasmine rice that soaks up every drop of that incredible glaze. However, don’t limit yourself to rice. Try it over:

Crispy Japanese Cotton Candy Swiss Cake Roll for an unexpected dessert fusion
Fresh lettuce cups for a lighter option
Lo mein noodles for takeout vibes at home

Complete the meal with steamed broccoli or snap peas. The vegetables provide a fresh contrast to the rich, sticky chicken. For beverages, iced green tea or a crisp lager complements the sweet-spicy flavors perfectly.

Consider starting your meal with our Japanese Clear Soup Recipe for an authentic Asian-inspired dinner experience.

Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe FAQs

What are the ingredients of chilli chicken?

The essential ingredients include chicken breast, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, cornstarch for coating, and oil for frying. Additionally, garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds enhance both flavor and presentation.

What is a simple chilli sauce for chicken?

Mix ¾ cup ketchup with 2 tablespoons honey, 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, and 1 tablespoon rice vinegar. This homemade version works wonderfully when store-bought sweet chili sauce isn’t available.

How to make crispy chili chicken sauce?

Create crispiness through proper cornstarch coating and correct oil temperature (350-375°F). The sauce becomes glossy and sticky by simmering the marinade until it coats a spoon, then tossing with the fried chicken.

What is the difference between chili chicken dry and gravy?

Dry chili chicken has minimal sauce that coats the pieces, creating a sticky glaze. Gravy style includes more liquid, creating a saucy dish perfect for serving over rice or noodles.

Wrapping Up Your Sweet Chili Chicken Journey

You know what? This sweet chili chicken recipe has become my go-to whenever I want to impress without stress. The combination of crispy texture and that irresistible sweet-spicy glaze creates restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen.

Remember that Phoenix food truck festival I mentioned? Well, this homemade version actually surpasses what I tasted there. The secret lies in taking time with each step, especially the marinating and proper frying technique.

Whether you’re preparing this for a busy weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this amazing chili recipe delivers consistently delicious results. Serve it alongside your favorite Quick Lasagna Soup for a comfort food feast that satisfies every craving.

Try this recipe and tag us on social media @TastyAtHome. I’d love to see your creative variations and hear about your family’s reactions. After all, the best recipes are the ones that bring people together around the table.

For dessert, consider our Simple Apple Crumble or White Chocolate Raspberry Dream Cake to complete your memorable meal.