Sweet Chili Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweetness and spiciness. It consists of crispy, battered chicken coated in a luscious sweet chili sauce that bursts with flavor. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its vibrant flavor profile and inviting aroma, Sweet Chili Chicken is sure to appeal to your taste buds and become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why We Love This Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe
What makes this Sweet Chili Chicken recipe so special? Firstly, the combination of crispy, fried chicken and the sticky-sweet sauce creates an irresistible taste that keeps you coming back for more. Additionally, it’s a simple recipe that doesn’t require extensive cooking skills, making it accessible for cooks of all levels. The colorful presentation, garnished with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro, elevates it to the next level, capturing attention at any gathering. Lastly, it’s versatile enough to be served as an appetizer, main dish, or even in a wrap for a quick lunch. Every bite delivers a satisfying crunch and an explosion of flavor.
Ingredients about Sweet Chili Chicken
To prepare this mouthwatering Sweet Chili Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
- 12 oz. skinless boneless chicken breast (or thigh, cut into small pieces)
- Oil (for deep-frying)
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce (bottled)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 1 pinch salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white sesame seeds
- 1/2 tablespoon chopped cilantro leaves
- 1 egg white
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup water (ice cold)
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1 pinch salt
How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken Directions
Creating your Sweet Chili Chicken is a straightforward process that requires only a few steps. Let’s break it down:
- Prepare the Batter: Start by mixing the egg white, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and ice-cold water in a large bowl. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Ensuring the batter is light will give your chicken a crispy coating.
- Add the Chicken: Take the cut chicken pieces and coat them well in the prepared batter. Make sure each piece is evenly covered for the best frying results.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep pot or a frying pan, heat about two inches of oil over medium-high heat. This is essential for achieving that golden-brown color on the chicken.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the battered chicken into the hot oil. Allow them to fry for about 4-5 minutes. You want to cook them until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, transfer the chicken pieces to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Stir-fry the Garlic: After frying the chicken, clean out the wok. Heat one tablespoon of cooking oil, then add the minced garlic. Stir-fry the garlic for about 30 seconds until it turns fragrant but not burnt.
- Combine with Sauce: Add the fried chicken back to the wok along with the sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything well to ensure that each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer your beautifully coated Sweet Chili Chicken to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and additional flavor. Serve hot and enjoy this delightful dish!
How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken
Serving Sweet Chili Chicken can be a fun and creative process. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. You can serve it over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or alongside some stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. The vibrant colors of the vegetables will complement the golden chicken beautifully.
For a more casual approach, consider setting up a Sweet Chili Chicken wrap station. Provide tortillas, fresh lettuce, crunchy cucumbers, and additional sweet chili sauce for dipping. This allows your guests or family members to assemble their own wraps, making mealtime interactive and enjoyable.
Additionally, if you are hosting a gathering or party, consider serving Sweet Chili Chicken as an appetizer. Skewering pieces of chicken on toothpicks will make it easy for guests to grab and enjoy. Serve with a dipping sauce on the side for an added kick.
Expert Tips: Sweet Chili Chicken
To elevate your Sweet Chili Chicken and ensure perfect results, here are some expert tips to follow:
- Choose the Right Chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs adds more flavor and moisture compared to chicken breasts, but both will work. Cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Chill the Batter: Keeping your batter cold helps create a crispier coating when frying. The contrast between the cold batter and hot oil is crucial for achieving that delightful crunch.
- Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature. If the oil is too hot, the batter will brown too quickly, and the chicken may remain raw inside. Ideally, the temperature should be around 350°F (175°C).
- Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in small batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature. Overcrowding can lead to greasy, soggy chicken pieces.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier twist, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sweet chili sauce for a kick that enhances the overall flavor.
How to Store Sweet Chili Chicken
Storing your Sweet Chili Chicken properly will maintain its flavor and texture. If you have leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will last for up to three days.
For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. In the freezer, your Sweet Chili Chicken can be kept for about three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in an oven to retain the crispiness.
Variation of Sweet Chili Chicken
There are numerous ways to put your own twist on this classic Sweet Chili Chicken recipe. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and broccoli. Coat them in the same batter and fry until crispy for a delightful vegetarian dish.
- Baked Version: For a healthier approach, skip the frying and bake the battered chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Different Sauces: Experiment with different sauces by mixing sweet chili sauce with additional ingredients like honey, soy sauce, or teriyaki sauce for a unique flavor profile.
- Add Nuts: For added crunch, consider tossing in some crushed peanuts or cashews at the end. This adds texture and a rich flavor that complements the sweet chili sauce.
- Spicy Version: If you crave extra heat, incorporate sriracha or chili paste into your sauce mix. This will give your Sweet Chili Chicken a spicy kick that spice lovers will appreciate.
FAQ
What is Sweet Chili Chicken?
Sweet Chili Chicken is a popular dish known for its crispy fried chicken coated in a sweet and slightly spicy sauce. It’s commonly enjoyed as a main dish or appetizer.
How do I achieve crispy chicken in Sweet Chili Chicken?
To achieve crispy chicken, ensure your batter is cold and fry the chicken in hot oil, avoiding overcrowding the pan.
Can I use a different protein for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with tofu, shrimp, or various vegetables for a delicious variation.
How long can I store Sweet Chili Chicken?
You can store Sweet Chili Chicken in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months in an airtight container.
Can I make Sweet Chili Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and batter in advance. Fry the chicken just before serving to maintain its crispiness, but you can store the battered chicken in the refrigerator for a short period before frying.
Sweet Chili Chicken
Ingredients
Chicken Preparation
- 12 oz skinless boneless chicken breast or thigh, cut into small pieces Using thighs adds more flavor.
- 1 egg white 1 egg white Helps with batter adhesion.
Batter Ingredients
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch Adds crunchiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder Helps the batter rise.
- 1/2 cup ice cold water Chilled batter is crucial for crispiness.
Frying and Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil (for deep-frying) Ensure sufficient oil for frying.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor to the sauce.
- 4 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce The star ingredient.
- 1 teaspoon lime juice For acidity.
- 1 pinch salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white sesame seeds For garnish.
- 1/2 tablespoon chopped cilantro leaves For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation of Batter
- In a large bowl, mix together the egg white, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and ice-cold water until smooth.
Coating the Chicken
- Coat the chicken pieces well in the prepared batter.
Frying
- Heat about two inches of oil in a deep pot or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the battered chicken into the hot oil and fry for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove chicken and drain excess oil on a paper towel-lined plate.
Making the Sauce
- In the cleaned wok, heat one tablespoon of cooking oil and stir-fry the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the fried chicken back to the wok along with the sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
Serving
- Transfer the coated Sweet Chili Chicken to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro. Serve hot.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!