Name: Skillet Sweet Chili Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: Chicken thighs – 4 boneless, skinless; Sweet chili sauce – 1/3 cup; Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons; Garlic – 2 cloves, minced; Olive oil – 1 tablespoon for searing; Lime juice – 1 tablespoon (optional); Green onions – for garnish (optional); Cooked rice – to serve; Special tools:; Skillet or frying pan; Tongs for flipping the chicken; Measuring spoons

Skillet Sweet Chili Chicken

There are days when you just need a recipe that can be made quickly, yet still delivers on flavor. Enter Sweet Chili Chicken—this dish is a life-saver in our household. I decided to try this recipe one busy weeknight when I was running low on time but still wanted to make something that would have my family smiling around the dinner table. To say it was a hit is an understatement. The sweet and spicy glaze gives the chicken an irresistible shine, and the flavors are so perfectly balanced. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone ask for seconds—and my kids, who are normally picky eaters, devoured it without a single complaint.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. I can easily pair it with a quick side of steamed rice or even throw together a simple salad on the side. It’s great for busy moms because it doesn’t require any fancy ingredients or hours of prep. In fact, it comes together in less than 30 minutes, which is exactly what I need on those hectic evenings. The best part? Even the leftovers taste amazing the next day! I knew I had found a keeper when my husband asked if I could make it again soon. It’s the perfect balance of convenience and taste—and one I’m sure will become a staple in your home too!

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
A: Yes, you can! Chicken breasts work just as well in this recipe, though they tend to cook a little faster than thighs. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so they don’t dry out.

Q: Is the sauce very spicy?
A: The sweetness of the chili sauce balances the heat, making it mild to moderate in spiciness. However, you can always adjust the spice level by adding less chili sauce or a dash of honey for extra sweetness.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the chicken and store it in the fridge, then cook it when you’re ready. The glaze can also be made ahead and refrigerated, so it’s a great option for meal prep.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to use a large enough pan to avoid overcrowding the chicken while cooking. You might need to cook the chicken in batches for even cooking.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Just store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

What You Need to Make Sweet Chili Chicken

Chicken thighs – 4 boneless, skinless

Sweet chili sauce – 1/3 cup

Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons

Garlic – 2 cloves, minced

Olive oil – 1 tablespoon for searing

Lime juice – 1 tablespoon (optional)

Green onions – for garnish (optional)

Cooked rice – to serve

Special tools:

Skillet or frying pan

Tongs for flipping the chicken

Measuring spoons

How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken

Prepare the chicken: Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This helps get a nice sear on the meat. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Make the glaze: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice (if using). Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Coat the chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat the chicken in the glaze. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes, making sure it’s well-coated.

Serve: Serve the sweet chili chicken on a bed of rice, and garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Best Sweet Chili Chicken

For extra flavor: Let the chicken marinate in the sweet chili sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat even more.

Spice level adjustments: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the chili sauce and add a bit of honey to taste.

Add vegetables: Toss in some steamed broccoli or snap peas for a balanced meal.

Don’t skip the sear: Searing the chicken ensures a crispy texture on the outside, which makes the glaze even more delicious.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Absolutely delicious! My kids loved it, and it was so easy to make. This will definitely be a regular dinner in our house.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Quick and tasty! I made it for dinner on a busy weeknight, and it turned out amazing. Next time, I might add a bit more heat to it!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️ “The chicken was tasty, but the sauce was a little too sweet for me. I’ll reduce the chili sauce next time for a more balanced flavor.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “A family favorite! My husband went back for seconds, and my kids cleaned their plates. Perfect for weeknight dinners.”

⭐️⭐️ “It was good, but I wish I had cooked it a little longer to get a crispier texture. I’ll try again with a longer sear next time.”

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