Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds? This sweet chili chicken recipe combines succulent chicken with a delightful glaze that balances sweetness and heat. Perfectly served with rice and vegetables, this dish will become a family favorite in no time. Let’s dive into the recipe and prepare to impress your guests with this vibrant and flavorful dish!
Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish
– Sliced green onions for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken thigh) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 20g
– Fat: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Sugar: 10g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
3. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown (about 4-5 minutes).
6. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
7. Pour the sweet chili mixture over the chicken, coating well.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
9. Baste the chicken with the sauce halfway through cooking.
10. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs with breasts for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with tofu or tempeh, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
Serving and Pairings
Serve this sweet chili chicken over a bed of jasmine rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. Pair it with a crisp salad or spring rolls for a delightful dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover sweet chili chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent dryness.
– Don’t skip the searing step for added flavor.
– Ensure the sauce coats the chicken evenly.
– Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best taste.
– Adjust the sweetness level by modifying the honey amount.
– Let the chicken rest before serving for juicier results.
– Always check chicken for doneness using a meat thermometer.
Helpful Tips
– Marinate the chicken for a few hours for deeper flavor.
– Garnish with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick.
– Serve with a side of pickled vegetables for contrast.
– Experiment with adding chili flakes for more heat.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as it will cook faster than bone-in pieces.
What can I serve with sweet chili chicken?
This dish pairs well with jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh green salad to balance the flavors.
Can this recipe be made in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Combine the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours for tender, flavorful chicken.
How can I make it spicier?
To increase the heat, add more chili sauce or incorporate fresh chopped chili peppers into the sauce mixture.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken in advance and bake it just before serving for a quick meal.
Conclusion
This sweet chili chicken recipe is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making every bite a delightful experience.
Sweet Chili Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger grated
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown (about 4-5 minutes).
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Pour the sweet chili mixture over the chicken, coating well.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Baste the chicken with the sauce halfway through cooking.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
