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Plated Sweet Chili Chicken Over Rice.

Sweet Chili Chicken

Tender chicken pieces coated in crispy breading and tossed in a sticky sweet chili glaze for a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian
Calories: 385

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup sweet chili sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 green onions sliced, for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
  • jasmine rice or noodles for serving

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Large skillet or wok
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Serving platter
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Cut chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch cubes. In a mixing bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Add chicken pieces, toss to coat, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
  2. Place cornstarch in a shallow bowl and season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove marinated chicken from refrigerator, reserving all the marinade. Using a slotted spoon, transfer chicken to cornstarch bowl, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Coat each piece evenly.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering (around 350°F). Add coated chicken in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Work in batches if necessary.
  4. Transfer cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add reserved marinade. Bring to a full rolling boil for at least 2 minutes, then simmer until thickened to a syrupy consistency, about 3-4 minutes total.
  5. Return fried chicken to the skillet with simmering sauce. Toss gently using tongs to coat every piece thoroughly. Cook for 2-3 minutes more, allowing flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Transfer glazed chicken to serving platter using tongs or slotted spoon. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately over jasmine rice or noodles.

Notes

For best results, don't skip the marinating time. Work in batches when frying to maintain oil temperature and achieve crispy coating. Reserved marinade must reach a full boil since it contacted raw chicken. Add sriracha or red pepper flakes for extra heat. Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Note: If marinating for 2 hours, total recipe time will be 2 hours 20 minutes.