Crispy Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe

PUBLISHED July 17, 2025· MODIFIED July 17, 2025 · by the author listed in the recipe card 1271 words. · About 7 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

Spice up your dinner routine with this irresistibly flavorful Crispy Sweet Chili Chicken! This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouth-watering dish with just the right balance of sweetness and heat.

Why You’ll Love This Craveworthy Chicken

Quick. Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
Effortless. Minimal preparation for a no-fuss cooking experience.
Incredibly Tasty. The sweet chili sauce combined with tender, juicy chicken is a match made in heaven.

With the magic of the stovetop, you’ll achieve a deliciously caramelized exterior without the need for deep frying, making it a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice taste.

What Does Crispy Sweet Chili Chicken Taste Like?

Sweet Chili Chicken is a harmonious combination of sweet, spicy, tangy, and savory flavors with aromatic undertones and a satisfying, crispy texture. It’s a versatile dish that pleases the palate and leaves you wanting more.

Is Sweet Chili The Same As Thai Chili?

Sweet Chili Sauce and Thai Chili Sauce are often confused due to their similar names and common use in Thai cuisine, but they are not exactly the same. Here are the differences:

Flavor Profile. Sweet Chili Sauce is typically sweeter and milder. Thai Chili Sauce can be sweeter, tangier, and spicier, depending on the type.
Ingredients. Sweet Chili Sauce has a simpler ingredient list focused on sweetness with mild heat. Thai Chili Sauce can have more complex flavors, incorporating various spices and ingredients.
Usage. Sweet Chili Sauce is mostly used as a dipping sauce or glaze. Thai Chili Sauce has a wider range of uses, from condiment to cooking ingredient.
Variety. Sweet Chili Sauce is usually one specific type, while Thai Chili Sauce refers to a variety of sauces that can range in flavor and heat.

While Sweet Chili Sauce is a type of Thai Chili Sauce known for its sweet and mild heat, Thai Chili Sauce can refer to a variety of sauces with different heat levels and flavor profiles.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For The Chicken

Chicken Thighs– The main protein of the dish, providing tender and juicy meat.
Cornstarch– Used to coat the chicken, creating a crispy exterior.
Egg– Acts as a binder, helping the cornstarch adhere to the chicken pieces.
Vegetable Oil– For frying the chicken to golden perfection.

For The Sauce

Sweet Chili Sauce– Provides the distinctive sweet and spicy flavor.
Soy Sauce– Adds a savory depth to the sauce.
Rice Vinegar– Adds a tangy note that balances the sweetness.
Garlic– Adds a savory depth to the sauce.
Ginger– Adds a warm, spicy flavor that complements the sweet chili sauce.
Brown Sugar– Enhances the sweetness and helps to caramelize the sauce.
Red Pepper Flakes– Adds extra heat for those who like it spicy.

Garnish

Green Onions– Adds a fresh, vibrant flavor and color.
Sesame Seeds– Adds a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.

How To Make Crispy Sweet Chili Chicken

Prepare the Chicken. Cut the chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better.
Coat the Chicken. In a shallow bowl, beat the egg. In another bowl, add the cornstarch. Dip each chicken piece into the beaten egg, then dredge thoroughly in the cornstarch, shaking off any excess. This coating will ensure a crispy finish.
Fry the Chicken. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Make the Sauce. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. If you prefer extra heat, add red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
Combine Chicken and Sauce. Return the fried chicken pieces to the skillet, tossing to coat them evenly in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and caramelizes.
Garnish and Serve. Transfer the sweet chili chicken to a serving dish. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Tips And Tricks

Creating delicious Sweet Chili Chicken can be easy and rewarding with these helpful tips and tricks:

Use Fresh Ingredients– For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and ginger.
Adjust the Heat– Customize the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan– Fry the chicken in batches to ensure it gets crispy.

Variations

Creating delicious Sweet Chili Chicken can be easy and rewarding with these helpful tips and tricks:

Vegetarian Sweet Chili Tofu– Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.
Sweet Chili Shrimp– Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
Pineapple Sweet Chili Chicken– Add pineapple chunks for a tropical flavor.

What To Serve With Crispy Sweet Chili Chicken

Sweet Chili Chicken is a flavorful and versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious options to complement your meal:

Steamed Rice– The neutral flavor of steamed rice absorbs the sweet and spicy sauce, balancing the dish.
Fried Rice– Adds extra flavor and texture to the meal, making it more hearty.
Noodles– Complements the sweet chili sauce and adds a satisfying, chewy texture.

How Long Does It Last?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through before serving.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes! Freeze the cooked and cooled sweet chili chicken in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

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