Name: Sweet Chilli Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g Boneless chicken breast or thigh; 1 Egg; 150g Cornstarch; 1 tbsp Soy sauce (for chicken); ¼ tsp White pepper; 1 tsp Sesame oil; 2-3 tbsp Cooking oil, plus more for frying; 1 Red bell pepper, chopped; 1 Green bell pepper, chopped; 1 Medium yellow onion, chopped; 1 cup Broccoli florets; ½ cup Snap peas; ½ cup Carrots, thinly sliced (optional); 2 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 tsp Dried chilli flakes (optional); 6 tbsp Sweet Chilli sauce (pre-made); 2 tbsp Soy sauce (for sauce); 1 tbsp Sugar; ½ tsp Cornstarch (for slurry); 3 tbsp Water (for slurry); Chopped spring onions, for garnish; Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish (optional); Steamed rice or noodles, for serving

Sweet Chilli Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that promises to tantalize your taste buds and become a firm favorite in your recipe rotation. Imagine succulent pieces of chicken, perfectly coated in a glossy, vibrant sauce that strikes an exquisite balance between sweet, tangy, and a gentle kick of chilli. It’s no wonder this dish has captivated palates worldwide, evolving from its Asian-inspired roots to become a beloved takeaway staple and a sought-after homemade delight.

I find that what truly makes this dish so universally adored is its incredible versatility and the sheer joy it brings to the dinner table. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight solution or a show-stopping dish for entertaining, Sweet Chilli Chicken delivers every time. The tender texture of the chicken, often with a delightful crispy edge, combined with the complex, sticky-sweet glaze and just the right amount of heat, creates an unforgettable flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more. Prepare to impress yourself and your loved ones with this remarkably simple yet utterly delicious creation!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:
- Two large chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 700g), boneless and skinless, ideally organic for the best flavor and texture in our Sweet Chilli Chicken.
- One tablespoon cornstarch (or cornflour), essential for achieving a tender coating and helping the sauce adhere beautifully.
- One tablespoon light soy sauce, for a foundational savory note in the marinade.
- One teaspoon sesame oil, providing that signature aromatic depth.
- One pinch white pepper, to season subtly and enhance other flavors.
- Cooking oil (such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil), about 2-3 tablespoons, for stir-frying.
For the Homemade Sweet Chilli Sauce:
- Half cup granulated sugar, the cornerstone of the ‘sweet’ in Sweet Chilli Chicken, providing balance to the spice.
- Half cup distilled white vinegar, for the tangy contrast that brightens the entire dish.
- Quarter cup water, to help dissolve the sugar and achieve the right consistency.
- Two tablespoons fish sauce, an umami powerhouse that adds incredible depth without being overly “fishy.” Trust me on this one for authentic Sweet Chilli Chicken.
- Two tablespoons Sriracha sauce, or more to taste, for that vibrant heat and chili kick. Adjust according to your preferred spice level.
- Two cloves garlic, finely minced, adding pungent aromatics.
- One tablespoon fresh ginger, finely minced or grated, for a warm, spicy counterpoint.
- One tablespoon cornstarch (or cornflour), dissolved in two tablespoons cold water (this is our “slurry” for thickening the sauce).
For the Stir-fry Vegetables:
- One red bell pepper, deseeded and cut into one-inch pieces, adding sweetness and vibrant color.
- One green bell pepper, deseeded and cut into one-inch pieces, for a slightly earthier note and complementary color.
- One medium yellow onion, roughly chopped into one-inch pieces, providing a mild sweetness and texture.
- One cup broccoli florets, fresh or frozen (thawed), for a healthy green crunch.
- Half cup snap peas (or snow peas), for extra freshness and a delicate crunch.
- Optional: Half cup carrots, thinly sliced or julienned, for added sweetness and color.
- Optional garnish: Toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions (scallions), for a beautiful finish to your Sweet Chilli Chicken.
For Serving:
- Steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or your favorite noodles.

Preparing the Chicken for Your Sweet Chilli Chicken

Before we dive into the exciting flavors of our Sweet Chilli Chicken, a little prep work goes a long way. This initial stage is crucial for ensuring every bite is tender and infused with goodness.

Prepare the Chicken: First things first, let’s get our star ingredient ready. Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step is often overlooked but it’s important for achieving a good sear later. Next, slice the chicken into uniform one-inch cubes or thin strips, depending on your preference. I find cubes are perfect for stir-fries as they cook evenly and integrate well with the vegetables and sauce.
Marinate the Chicken: Transfer the prepared chicken pieces to a medium bowl. Now, let’s infuse them with some flavor and ensure they stay incredibly tender. Add the cornstarch, light soy sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of white pepper to the bowl. Use your clean hands or a spoon to toss everything together, making sure each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated. The cornstarch acts as a protective barrier, keeping the chicken moist during cooking, and also helps the sauce cling beautifully. Once coated, set the chicken aside to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes at room temperature while you prepare the other components. If you have more time, you can refrigerate it for up to an hour, but bring it back to room temperature before cooking. This simple marinade is the first secret to a truly outstanding Sweet Chilli Chicken.
Chop the Vegetables: While your chicken is marinating, it’s the perfect time to get all your vegetables prepped. Wash and thoroughly dry your red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and yellow onion. Deseed the bell peppers and cut them into roughly one-inch pieces. For the onion, chop it into similar-sized pieces. If you’re using fresh broccoli, break it down into small, bite-sized florets. If you have carrots, slice them thinly or julienne them. And for the snap peas, simply trim the ends. Having all your vegetables ready and within arm’s reach (this is called “mise en place” in culinary terms) is vital for a smooth and successful stir-fry, as the cooking process itself moves very quickly for Sweet Chilli Chicken.

Crafting the Homemade Sweet Chilli Sauce

The heart and soul of our dish truly lies in this incredible homemade sweet chilli sauce. Forget store-bought; once you taste this vibrant, balanced sauce, you’ll never go back. It’s the defining characteristic of this Sweet Chilli Chicken recipe.

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, distilled white vinegar, water, and fish sauce. Give it a good whisk to start dissolving the sugar. The vinegar provides that essential tanginess that cuts through the sweetness, while the fish sauce adds an incredible layer of umami that elevates the entire sauce.
Add Aromatics and Heat: Stir in the Sriracha sauce (adjusting the amount to your desired level of spice), finely minced garlic, and finely minced ginger. These aromatics are what give our Sweet Chilli Chicken sauce its signature kick and aromatic complexity. I love a good amount of garlic and ginger in mine, as they really stand up to the sweetness and heat.
Simmer and Thicken: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to ensure the sugar fully dissolves. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. While it’s simmering, prepare your cornstarch slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water until smooth. This slurry is what will give our Sweet Chilli Chicken sauce its luscious, glossy texture.
Incorporate Slurry: Once the sauce has simmered and the flavors have combined, give your cornstarch slurry a quick re-whisk (cornstarch settles quickly). Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce in a thin stream, whisking continuously. Continue to whisk as the sauce comes back to a simmer and thickens. This usually takes just 1-2 minutes. You’ll notice it transform into a beautiful, glossy, and slightly thick consistency, perfect for coating our chicken and vegetables. Once it reaches your desired thickness, remove the saucepan from the heat. Taste and Adjust: This is a crucial step! Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a little more Sriracha for heat, a touch more vinegar for tang, or even a tiny pinch of sugar if you prefer it sweeter. Remember, this is your Sweet Chilli Chicken. Set the completed sauce aside.

Cooking Your Delicious Sweet Chilli Chicken Stir-fry

Now that our chicken is marinated and our incredible sweet chilli sauce is ready, it’s time to bring everything together in a sizzling stir-fry. This phase moves quickly, so having everything prepped is key to a successful Sweet Chilli Chicken!

Cook the Chicken: Heat a large wok or a heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat until it’s smoking hot. Add one tablespoon of cooking oil, swirling to coat the bottom. Once the oil is shimmering, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary – overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of searing it, and we want beautiful caramelization for our Sweet Chilli Chicken! Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy on one side, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until cooked through and nicely browned on all sides. Remove the cooked chicken from the wok and set it aside in a clean bowl.
Stir-fry the Aromatics and Vegetables: Add another tablespoon of cooking oil to the same wok, if needed, and let it get hot again. Add the chopped yellow onion and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until it starts to soften and become fragrant. Next, add the red and green bell peppers, along with the carrots if you’re using them. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp – we want them to retain a little bit of their bite, not become mushy.
Add Remaining Vegetables: Now, add the broccoli florets and snap peas to the wok. Continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until the broccoli turns a vibrant green and the snap peas are just tender-crisp. Again, the goal here is perfectly cooked vegetables with a slight crunch, which adds wonderful texture to our Sweet Chilli Chicken.
Combine and Sauce It Up: Reduce the heat to medium. Return the cooked chicken to the wok with the stir-fried vegetables. Give your homemade sweet chilli sauce another quick whisk, as it might have settled slightly. Pour the entire sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the wok. Toss everything gently but thoroughly, ensuring every piece of chicken and every vegetable is beautifully coated in that glistening, flavorful sweet chilli sauce. Let it simmer for just 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to truly embrace all the ingredients and heat through completely.

Serving Suggestions and Final Touches for Sweet Chilli Chicken

You’ve done it! Your kitchen should be filled with incredible aromas, and your Sweet Chilli Chicken is now ready for its grand reveal. This is where we bring it all together for a truly satisfying meal.

Garnish and Serve Immediately: Once the chicken and vegetables are perfectly coated and heated through, turn off the heat. Transfer your magnificent Sweet Chilli Chicken directly to serving plates or a large serving platter. For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions (scallions). The green onions add a fresh, pungent contrast, and the sesame seeds provide a lovely nutty crunch and visual appeal.
Pair with Your Favorite Sides: Sweet Chilli Chicken is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. My personal favorite is fluffy steamed jasmine rice, which acts as the perfect canvas for soaking up all that incredible sauce. You could also opt for brown rice for a healthier alternative, or even serve it over your favorite Asian noodles (like lo mein or chow mein noodles) for a heartier meal. Quinoa or even a light salad could also be great options if you’re looking for something different.
Enjoy and Savor: Don’t wait! This Sweet Chilli Chicken dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh, right after it’s cooked. The vibrant flavors of sweet, spicy, tangy, and savory, combined with the tender chicken and crisp-tender vegetables, create a harmonious and incredibly satisfying meal that I’m sure will become a regular in your rotation.
Leftovers and Storage: If by some miracle you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. While it’s best fresh, this Sweet Chilli Chicken still makes a fantastic quick lunch the next day!
Pro Tip for Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on what’s in season or what you love. Baby corn, water chestnuts, mushrooms, or even thin slices of zucchini could all be wonderful additions to this Sweet Chilli Chicken stir-fry. You can also adjust the heat by adding more fresh chilies (like bird’s eye chilies) if you’re feeling adventurous!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve journeyed through the steps of creating what I genuinely believe is one of the most satisfying and utterly delicious dishes you can make right in your own kitchen. This isn’t just another recipe; it’s an invitation to experience a symphony of flavors that will delight your palate and impress anyone you serve it to. What makes our recipe for Sweet Chilli Chicken truly a must-try is its perfect harmony of taste and texture. Imagine succulent, tender pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked, bathed in a glossy, vibrant sauce that strikes the most exquisite balance between fiery chilli heat and a delightful underlying sweetness. It’s that glorious sticky glaze, with its rich, complex profile, that elevates simple chicken into something truly extraordinary. I promise you, from the moment that incredible aroma fills your kitchen to the very last delectable bite, you’ll understand why this dish has earned its place as a firm favorite in my cooking repertoire.

Elevate Your Meal: Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the art of preparing this fantastic Sweet Chilli Chicken, let’s talk about how to make it the star of your dinner table. My absolute go-to way to serve it is alongside a generous helping of fluffy, perfectly steamed Jasmine rice. The clean, aromatic notes of the rice act as a wonderful canvas, absorbing every drop of that tantalizing sauce and providing a comforting balance to the bold flavors. If you’re looking for a different texture, try tossing the chicken with some stir-fried egg noodles or even a lighter, refreshing rice noodle salad for a delightful contrast. For a pop of color, a boost of nutrients, and a delightful crunch, I always recommend adding some fresh, crisp vegetables on the side. Think vibrant stir-fried broccoli florets, tender snap peas, or perhaps some garlicky bok choy. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds just before serving not only adds a beautiful visual appeal but also introduces a subtle, nutty depth, while a scattering of finely chopped green onions provides a fresh, aromatic finish that ties everything together perfectly.

But the true beauty of this recipe lies in its incredible versatility. Don’t be afraid to let your culinary imagination run wild! This Sweet Chilli Chicken is a fantastic starting point for countless variations. Feeling adventurous? Why not swap the chicken for plump, juicy shrimp or firm, pan-fried tofu cubes for a delicious vegetarian or pescatarian twist? Thinly sliced pork or even tender beef strips would also work wonderfully, absorbing all that incredible sauce. If you crave a little more heat, a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes stirred into the sauce during the final minutes will give it an extra kick. For those with a sweeter tooth, an extra drizzle of honey or a touch of maple syrup can enhance that delightful sticky quality. And don’t hesitate to incorporate more vegetables directly into the stir-fry itself. Bell peppers, sliced carrots, mushrooms, or even pineapple chunks can add fantastic new dimensions of flavor and texture, turning each meal into a unique and exciting creation. This recipe is designed to be adaptable, encouraging you to make it truly your own.

Your Culinary Journey Starts Now: Try It & Share!

I truly believe that cooking should be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, a creative outlet that brings joy to both the chef and those who get to savor the results. This Sweet Chilli Chicken recipe is meticulously crafted to be exactly that – an accessible yet incredibly gratifying culinary adventure for your taste buds. I pour my passion into developing dishes that I genuinely adore and have full confidence you will too, and this one, in particular, holds a special place in my heart. It’s the kind of meal that consistently elicits smiles, ignites lively conversations around the dining table, and leaves everyone feeling utterly satisfied and eagerly anticipating their next serving. The joy of cooking, for me, lies in sharing these delicious moments.

So, please, don’t delay another moment! Gather your ingredients, tie on your apron, and immerse yourself in the delightful process of creating this absolutely phenomenal dish. I assure you, with every fiber of my being, that you will not regret it. The intoxicating aroma alone as it simmers and glazes will have your senses tingling, and the sensational taste will undoubtedly surpass every single one of your expectations. It’s more than just food; it’s an experience waiting to happen. Once you’ve had the pleasure of tasting and experiencing the magic of this Sweet Chilli Chicken for yourself, I would be beyond thrilled and incredibly honored to hear all about your journey! Your feedback, your triumphs, your clever adaptations, or even just a simple anecdote about who you shared it with – all of it genuinely inspires me and the wonderful community of home cooks we’re building together. Did you discover an ingenious new side dish that paired perfectly? Did you add a secret ingredient that took it to an unprecedented level of deliciousness? Perhaps you prepared it for a special gathering, and it became the star of the show, earning rave reviews from everyone present. Whatever your unique story may be, please don’t keep it to yourself! I warmly invite you to share it with us. Leave a comment below, tag us in your beautiful food photos on social media, or simply spread the word to your friends and family. Your contributions are not just helpful; they are genuinely motivating and help us all grow, learn, and discover new culinary delights. Let’s cultivate a vibrant, supportive community centered around the sheer joy of delicious food, starting right here with this unforgettable Sweet Chilli Chicken. I am genuinely eager to see, and hear about, the amazing creations you bring to life!