There’s just something magical about a homemade takeout-style dinner—warm, sweet, slightly spicy, and served up fresh from your own kitchen. This Asian Sweet Chili Chicken brings all the flavors you love from your favorite Chinese restaurant right to your dinner table. Crispy chicken coated in a glossy sweet chili sauce makes this dish both comforting and exciting, perfect for weeknights or sharing with family.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dinner / Main | 15 mins | 20 mins | 4 | ~420 |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Sesame seeds & green onions, for garnish
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prepare the chicken – Pat the chicken dry, then coat pieces in cornstarch. Dip into beaten eggs for a light, crispy texture.
- Cook until golden – Heat oil in a large skillet or wok. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make the sauce – In the same pan, stir together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and honey. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thick.
- Coat the chicken – Add the cooked chicken back into the pan, tossing until every piece is coated in that glossy, sweet-spicy sauce.
- Garnish & serve – Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot with rice, noodles, or stir-fried veggies.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Crispy coating tip: Make sure oil is hot before frying to avoid soggy chicken.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
- Spice level: Use a spicier chili sauce (like Thai chili paste) if you want more heat.
Recipe Variations
- Protein swap – Try shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced pork for a twist.
- Vegetable boost – Add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to make it a one-pan meal.
- Healthier option – Bake or air fry the chicken instead of pan-frying.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with:
- Steamed jasmine or coconut rice
- Garlic stir-fried green beans
- A crisp cucumber salad for a refreshing balance
Conclusion
This Asian Sweet Chili Chicken is a true comfort meal—crispy, saucy, and full of flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. Whether you’re recreating your favorite takeout dish or just craving something sweet and savory, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again.