Chef Mitchell preparing Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken during a trip to Thailand, where the vibrant flavors captured my heart. Since then, I’ve perfected this recipe to bring that authentic taste to my kitchen. It has become a family favorite, and I love sharing it with friends at gatherings. Each time I make it, the delightful aroma fills the air, reminding me of those wonderful moments."

With over a decade of experience in Asian cuisine, Chef Mitchell specializes in creating authentic and easy recipes for dinner. He has traveled extensively across Asia, learning from local chefs and bringing those flavors back home. His passion for cooking shines through in every dish he creates.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken served on a plate

Why This Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. The sweet chili sauce caramelizes beautifully, creating a glossy and appealing finish on the chicken. Each bite offers a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with rice and vegetables.

The technique of marinating the chicken not only infuses it with flavor but also keeps it tender and juicy while baking. The addition of a thickened sauce just before serving elevates the dish, ensuring a delightful dining experience.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best texture, make sure to pat the chicken dry before marinating. This helps the glaze adhere better and promotes a crispier exterior when baking. Also, using a high-quality sweet chili sauce will significantly enhance the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to develop further. Just make sure to bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.

If you don't have sweet chili sauce, you can make a quick substitute by mixing honey or maple syrup with sriracha or another hot sauce to taste. This will give you a similar sweet and spicy flavor profile.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer. Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the chicken should be golden and slightly caramelized on the outside.

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to three months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it in the oven until heated through.

Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken pairs well with jasmine or basmati rice and a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or bok choy. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or spring rolls for a complete meal.

Cooked Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and moisture.

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and the glaze in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving. This allows you to have a quick meal ready to go.

The best way to reheat Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken is in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken on a baking sheet, cover it with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This helps keep the chicken moist.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The chicken may come out dry if overcooked or not marinated long enough.

Solution: Make sure to monitor the cooking time closely and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to ensure flavor and moisture retention.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The chicken may not have a crispy exterior if it was not dried properly before baking.

Solution: Ensure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before marinating and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to allow proper air circulation.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked chicken can become tough and dry.

Prevention: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C) and avoid cooking it longer than necessary.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The chicken may be undercooked in the center if not cooked properly.

Recovery: If you find the chicken undercooked, return it to the oven immediately, checking every 5 minutes until it reaches the proper temperature.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The outside of the chicken may burn if the oven temperature is too high.

Prevention: Lower the oven temperature and cover the chicken loosely with foil to prevent burning while ensuring it cooks through.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or lime juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the dish is too salty, serve it with plain rice or add a little sugar to counteract the saltiness.

Bland: If the dish lacks flavor, consider adding more marinade or spices to enhance the taste.

Fresh ingredients for Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken

Essential Ingredients for Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken

The key ingredients for Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken include fresh chicken, sweet chili sauce, and aromatic spices. The combination of these elements creates a deliciously sticky and flavorful glaze that coats the chicken perfectly. Using high-quality ingredients will elevate the overall taste of the dish.

Always opt for fresh ingredients whenever possible, especially the chicken and herbs. This not only enhances the flavor but also improves the texture of the dish. Using organic, high-quality sweet chili sauce can make a significant difference in the final outcome.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Choose fresh, high-quality chicken for the best results. Organic chicken often has better flavor and texture. Ensure it's thawed completely if frozen before marinating.
  • Sweet Chili Sauce: Select a reputable brand of sweet chili sauce for an authentic flavor. Look for one with a good balance of sweetness and heat to complement the chicken perfectly.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for depth of flavor. Avoid pre-minced garlic as it can lose its potency. Mince just before use for the best results.
Cooking process for Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Start by marinating the chicken to infuse it with flavor. Baking allows the chicken to cook evenly while the glaze caramelizes, giving a beautiful finish.

To achieve perfect results, make sure to monitor the cooking time closely. Using a meat thermometer ensures your chicken is cooked to perfection, while the glaze adds a delicious sticky texture that enhances the overall dish.

Key Technique for Perfect Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken

The key to perfect Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken lies in the marinating process. Allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness. Additionally, baking instead of frying reduces excess grease while still achieving a crispy exterior.

Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup sweet chili sauce
    For the glaze
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
    Adds depth of flavor
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
    Balancing acidity
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
    Enhances flavor
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    Freshly minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
    For warmth and flavor

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    For seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
    For garnish
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
    For garnish
  • Lime wedges for serving
    Adds freshness
  • Cooked rice for serving
    Base for the meal
  • Steamed vegetables for serving
    Optional side dish

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and gathering all the ingredients needed for the dish.

  2. Make the Marinade

    In a bowl, mix the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to create the marinade.

  3. Marinate the Chicken

    Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.

  4. Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while the chicken marinates.

  5. Prepare Baking Sheet

    Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

  6. Bake the Chicken

    Place the marinated chicken pieces on the baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.

  7. Make Sauce Thick

    In a small saucepan, combine cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add it to the remaining marinade and cook until thickened.

  8. Glaze the Chicken

    Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and brush the thickened sauce over the chicken pieces.

  9. Garnish and Serve

    Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with lime wedges, rice, and steamed vegetables.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in individual portions.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Sweet Chili Glazed Chicken over a bed of jasmine rice, with a side of steamed broccoli and carrots for a nutritious meal. Drizzle leftover sauce over the rice for added flavor.

Recipe Variations

For a healthier version, consider using skinless chicken breast or grilling the chicken instead of baking. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.