Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken

Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken

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Whip up Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken, a Spicy Asian Stir-Fry that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. Ready in about 30 minutes, this vibrant dish features tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a glossy, sweet-spicy sauce, all cooked in one skillet. Gluten-free and packed with flavor, Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken is an easy, wholesome meal that rivals takeout and fits seamlessly into your dinner rotation!

Ingredients for Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need for Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken (serves 4):

For the Stir-Fry:

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch (or arrowroot for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Sesame seeds and sliced green onions, for garnish

For the Sauce:

  • ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tbsp tamari (or gluten-free soy sauce)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Equipment

  • Large non-stick skillet or wok
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Small bowl for sauce
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredient Tips

  • Chicken: Bite-size pieces ensure quick cooking; thighs work for a juicier Spicy Asian Stir-Fry.
  • Tamari: Use tamari or certified gluten-free soy sauce to keep Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken gluten-free.
  • Cornstarch: Creates a crispy coating and thickens the sauce; arrowroot is a gluten-free alternative.
  • Veggies: Fresh bell pepper and broccoli add crunch; frozen can work but may soften more.
  • Sweet Chili Sauce: Adjust honey or red pepper flakes to balance sweetness and heat.

Directions for Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken

Let’s make this Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken—a delicious Spicy Asian Stir-Fry!

Prep the Chicken

  1. I pat 1 lb chicken pieces dry with paper towels and toss with 2 tbsp cornstarch in a bowl until lightly coated, ensuring a crispy texture for this Spicy Asian Stir-Fry.

Make the Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, I whisk ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, 2 tbsp tamari, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp honey (if using), and ½ tsp red pepper flakes until smooth, then set aside.

Cook the Chicken

  1. I heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. I add the chicken in a single layer, cooking for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through (165°F/74°C).
  3. I remove the chicken and set it aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In the same skillet, I add a drizzle of oil if needed, then stir-fry 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 sliced red bell pepper, and 1 cup broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.

Combine and Finish

  1. I return the chicken to the skillet, pour in the sauce, and stir to coat evenly.
  2. I cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through for Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken.

Serve

  1. I sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, serving over steamed rice, quinoa, or greens.

Nutrition

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: ~300 kcal per serving
  • Macros per Serving: 25g carbs, 28g protein, 10g fat, 2g fiber

Variations

Try these twists on Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken:

  • Extra Spicy: Add 1 tsp sriracha or more red pepper flakes for a fiery Spicy Asian Stir-Fry.
  • Veggie Boost: Include snap peas, carrots, or baby corn for more nutrition.
  • Protein Swap: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a versatile Spicy Asian Stir-Fry.
  • Low-Sodium: Replace tamari with coconut aminos for a milder flavor.
  • Tropical Twist: Add ¼ cup diced pineapple for a sweet, tangy kick, inspired by Layla Cooks’ creative recipes.

Serving Ideas:

  • Pair with Layla Cooks’ cucumber blueberry feta salad for a refreshing contrast.
  • Serve with Layla Cooks’ spicy pickled dilly beans or southern green beans for a zesty side.
  • Offer with Layla Cooks’ Lace Cookies with Chocolate for a sweet finish.

Storage

I store Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its vibrant flavors. For freezing, I portion cooled stir-fry (without garnishes) into airtight containers for up to 2 months, thawing in the fridge overnight. I reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to loosen the sauce or microwave for quick meals.

Serving Tips

  • Presentation: Serve Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken family-style from the skillet with a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions.
  • Garnish: Add extra sesame seeds or a drizzle of sriracha for a bold Spicy Asian Stir-Fry.
  • Pairing: Enjoy with jasmine rice, quinoa, lettuce wraps, or Layla Cooks’ iced tea for a refreshing meal.
  • Portion Size: 1 cup of stir-fry per person for a balanced dinner; adjust for hearty appetites.
  • Occasions: Ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings.

FAQs

Can I make it ahead of time?
You can prep the sauce and cut the chicken and veggies in advance. Cook fresh when ready to eat for best texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prep the sauce, chicken, and veggies up to a day ahead, then cook fresh for the best texture in this Spicy Asian Stir-Fry.

Is this freezer-friendly?
Cooked sweet chili chicken can be frozen, but the veggies may lose their crispness.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely, shrimp or tofu work great for a versatile Spicy Asian Stir-Fry; adjust cooking times accordingly.

What’s the best way to keep it gluten-free?
Use tamari or certified gluten-free soy sauce and arrowroot instead of cornstarch.

More Chicken Recipes

Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken

Conclusion

Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken is a vibrant, easy dish that brings bold, sweet-spicy flavors to your table in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this Spicy Asian Stir-Fry is gluten-free, veggie-packed, and endlessly customizable. Cook up Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken, share with family, and enjoy a wholesome, delicious meal that everyone will love!

Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken

Quick & Healthy Sweet Chili Chicken

This quick & healthy sweet chili chicken is an easy 30-minute stir-fry loaded with tender chicken, bell peppers, broccoli, and a flavorful homemade Asian-inspired sauce. A wholesome gluten-free chicken recipe that’s perfect for a fast and satisfying family dinner on busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Asian-inspired
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb 450 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 red bell pepper sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot for gluten-free
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
  • For the sauce:
  • ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey optional
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional

Instructions
 

  • Pat chicken dry and toss with cornstarch until lightly coated.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, tamari, rice vinegar, honey, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken pieces for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
  • In the same skillet, add garlic, bell pepper, and broccoli. Stir-fry for about 3–4 minutes until just tender but crisp.
  • Return chicken to skillet, pour in sauce, and stir to coat. Cook 2–3 more minutes until sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over rice, noodles, or greens.

Notes

  • For extra heat, add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
  • Don’t overcrowd the skillet — cook chicken in batches if needed.
  • Prep sauce and veggies ahead of time to save even more time at dinner.
  • Use tamari and arrowroot to keep the dish completely gluten-free.

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Keyword Gluten Free

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