Are you craving a delicious, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This sweet chili sauce chicken recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a simple, healthy, and incredibly satisfying dish that the whole family will love. This easy recipe requires minimal ingredients and cooking skills, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs looking for a quick dinner idea. Get ready to experience a burst of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic.
- Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
- Pour the cornstarch slurry into the skillet with the chicken. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes).
Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
- Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or your favorite vegetables for a complete and healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Sweet Chili Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the chicken in batches ensures even browning and cooking.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili sauce.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this delicious chicken with steamed rice, quinoa, or a vibrant salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.
- Leftovers are great!: This dish tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Add some veggies: Incorporate your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of sriracha or gochujang for an extra kick.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or pork for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This sweet chili sauce chicken recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy homemade cooking. It's a perfect addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. Enjoy!