Easy Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken in 30 Minutes or Less
Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner routine with a dish that’s packed with flavor and can be prepared in just 30 minutes? This Easy Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken brings the perfect combination of sweetness and spice, making it a delightful meal that everyone will love. Perfectly glazed chicken coated in a sticky sweet chili sauce is sure to impress, whether you’re cooking for family or friends. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over rice, in a wrap, or with your favorite veggies!
Ingredients & Kitchen Tools
– Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper (to taste)
– 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
– 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
– Chopped green onions, for garnish
– Sesame seeds, for garnish
– Kitchen Tools:
– Large skillet or wok
– Mixing bowl
– Spoon or spatula
– Knife and cutting board
Prep & Cook Time
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking.
4. Mix Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, in a small bowl, combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced ginger, and minced garlic. Stir well to incorporate.
5. Add Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to medium and pour the sauce over the chicken. Stir to coat the chicken pieces evenly in the sauce.
6. Simmer: Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes sticky.
7. Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Enjoy your sticky sweet chili chicken with rice or your favorite side!
Nutritional Benefits or Advantages
This sticky sweet chili chicken is not only delicious but also packed with protein thanks to the chicken breast. The sweet chili sauce provides a delightful balance of flavor without excessive sugar, making it a satisfying option that can help curb cravings. Additionally, with the inclusion of ginger and garlic, you benefit from their anti-inflammatory properties and immune system support.
Tips, Variations, or Substitutions
– Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
– Heat Level: For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili when mixing the sauce.
– Crispy Chicken: For extra texture, coat the chicken pieces in cornstarch before frying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Overcooking the Chicken: Keep a close eye on the chicken while it cooks to avoid drying it out.
– Sauce Too Thin: Ensure the sauce simmers adequately to achieve the right thickness. You can add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water for a thicker consistency.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Conclusion with Call-to-Action
This Easy Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken is your go-to recipe for a fast, flavorful meal that checks all the boxes of a weeknight dinner. Try it this week and let us know how it turned out! What’s your favorite way to serve your sweet chili chicken? Share your experience in the comments below!
FAQs
– Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking for best results.
– Is this recipe gluten-free? You can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
– Can I prepare this ahead of time? You can marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before cooking for enhanced flavor.
