Name: Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Weeknight Favorite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: ¾–1 lb chicken breast, cubed into 1-inch pieces; 1 tbsp cornstarch; ¼ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp salt; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 small red bell pepper, sliced; 1 small orange bell pepper, sliced; 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, minced; ¾ cup sweet chili sauce; 1–2 tbsp honey; 1 lime, sliced; 3 tbsp green onions, chopped

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Looking for a quick, sweet and spicy chicken dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor? This Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe is just what you need. With its sticky glaze, tender chicken, and customizable veggie mix, it’s a go-to meal that’s both weeknight-friendly and dinner-party approved.

Rooted in Thai and Chinese cooking, this dish combines the magic of sweet chili sauce, garlic, and honey into a balanced, flavorful glaze that clings to each bite of chicken. Whether you’re a spice-lover or looking for something mild and crowd-pleasing, this recipe can be adjusted to suit any palate.

You’ll love how simple it is to whip up. Everything bakes on a single sheet pan, meaning fewer dishes and less cleanup. And it’s easy to scale, making it perfect for meal prep or feeding a group. Curious about how to prep garlic like a pro? Check out how to mince garlic properly for the best flavor and technique.

Even better, this dish is surprisingly healthy. Using lean chicken breast and loading it with vegetables makes it satisfying and nutrient-rich. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the nutritional value of chicken breast if you’re watching your macros or eating clean.

What Is Sweet Chili Chicken?

Sweet Chili Chicken is an Asian-inspired dish that balances sweetness, heat, and savory richness in one glossy, crave-worthy sauce. Traditionally, it’s stir-fried or deep-fried, but this baked version is easier and lighter without sacrificing texture or taste.

Uses sweet chili sauce, a condiment made with red chilies, sugar, garlic, and vinegar
Great alternative to takeout
Easily customizable based on spice level and dietary needs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Sheet pan convenience
✅ Under 30 minutes from start to finish
✅ Kid-friendly and great for picky eaters
✅ Ideal for meal prep and leftovers
✅ Naturally dairy-free and easy to make gluten-free

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create the perfect sweet chili glaze and tender chicken:

Chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
Sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Honey for extra sweetness and stickiness
Cornstarch for light coating and texture
Garlic and ginger for depth of flavor
Bell peppers (any color)
Jalapeños (optional for heat)
Olive oil
Salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh lime and green onions for garnish

Ingredient Substitutes:

Use arrowroot or flour instead of cornstarch
Substitute zucchini, broccoli, or mushrooms for bell peppers
Chicken thighs for extra juicy texture

Tools You’ll Need

Large sheet pan
Medium saucepan
Mixing bowl
Sharp knife
Measuring cups/spoons
Tongs or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Cube the chicken into bite-sized, even pieces and coat with cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
Spread chicken evenly on a greased sheet pan. Add sliced bell peppers and jalapeños.
Bake for 20 minutes, flipping chicken halfway through for even cooking.
Meanwhile, heat butter in a saucepan. Sauté garlic and ginger for 1 minute.
Add sweet chili sauce and honey. Let simmer for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Pour the sauce over the baked chicken and veggies. Mix to coat everything well.
Optional: Return pan to oven for 2-3 more minutes to let the sauce caramelize.
Garnish with chopped green onions and a squeeze of fresh lime.

Variations to Try

Air fryer version: Cook chicken at 400°F for 12–14 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Tofu alternative: Use extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed. Bake or pan-sear before coating.
Shrimp swap: Sub chicken with peeled shrimp. Bake for 10 minutes or sauté on stovetop.
Extra spicy: Add sriracha, chili paste, or double the jalapeños.

How to Serve It

Over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice
With stir-fried noodles or soba
As a protein boost in salads or rice bowls
Inside lettuce cups for a low-carb option
Alongside Asian slaw or pickled veggies

Make It Ahead

This recipe works beautifully for weekly meal prep. Here’s how:

Prepare and bake chicken and veggies in advance
Store sauce separately to keep texture fresh
Assemble and reheat in portions throughout the week
Add extra veggies or grains to stretch it into multiple meals

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
Freeze for up to 2 months (best if vacuum-sealed or double wrapped)
Reheat on stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to rehydrate the sauce

Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving)

Calories: 270
Protein: 19g
Carbs: 34g
Sugar: 29g
Fat: 6g
Sodium: 729mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on your choice of protein and vegetables.

FAQs About Sweet Chili Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them an excellent option.

How do I make it less spicy?
Skip the red pepper flakes and jalapeños. Add a bit more honey to mellow the heat.

Can I prepare it in advance?
Absolutely. It stores well and reheats beautifully. Thin the sauce with a touch of broth or water if needed.

Is it gluten-free?
Yes, just use a gluten-free sweet chili sauce and arrowroot starch instead of cornstarch.

What can I serve with this?
Try fried rice, Asian slaw, or even roasted green beans for a well-rounded meal.

Pro Cooking Tips

Cut chicken into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking
Flip halfway for a golden exterior
Don’t overcrowd the pan—spread ingredients evenly
Garnish right before serving for brightness and color
Caramelize under the broiler for extra stickiness

Sweet Chili Shrimp
Honey Sriracha Chicken
Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry
Sticky Garlic Chicken Bites

This Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—easy, versatile, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding your family or prepping lunch for the week, it’s a delicious staple you’ll want to make again and again.