Craving a flavorful and easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This chicken and sweet chili sauce recipe is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy, ready in under 30 minutes. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, requiring minimal effort for maximum taste. This healthy meal is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire, a delicious dish the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual weekend dinner, this recipe is a winner for those seeking quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better.
- Sauté the Veggies: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the bell pepper and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until slightly softened.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic.
- Combine and Simmer: Pour the sauce over the chicken and bell peppers. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the chicken is coated evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using). Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. For a milder version, reduce the amount of chili sauce.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic will significantly enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as steamed broccoli, a simple salad, or stir-fried vegetables.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as broccoli florets, carrots, or snow peas.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef.
- Make it a sheet pan meal: Roast the chicken and vegetables on a sheet pan for an easier cleanup.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein and is relatively low in fat, making it a healthy meal option. The exact nutritional values will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size. It's always recommended to use a nutrition calculator for precise information based on your ingredients.
This easy chicken and sweet chili sauce recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy food recipes can be quick and simple to make. It's a great option for busy weeknights, and it's sure to become one of your favorite go-to meals. Enjoy!