Crispy Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs
Sweet, spicy, sticky, fingers licking good, Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs are the dish to bring everyone together. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or the centerpiece of your weekend dinner menu, a winning combination of bold flavors, tender texture and versatility.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Kind of Balanced Flavor: Spicy taste from the chili combined with sweet taste makes the taste of this food so memorable.
- Easy To Make: A handful of ingredients and simple process to a delicious main course.
- Kid Friendly: The moderate amount of spice and sweetness make it suitable for all ages, so it’s always a family favorite.
- Meal Prep Winner: This one reheats wonderfully, so it’s a great make-ahead option or choice for leftovers.
- Versatile: These chicken thighs go great with rice, noodles or even a light salad, so you can mix and match for endless meal options.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (light or regular)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- ½ teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening glaze)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (for garnish)
Optional Ingredients
- Lime wedges for added tanginess
- Cilantro for a fresh herb garnish
Instructions
Follow these simple steps for delicious Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs:
Prepare the Sauce
- Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes in a small saucepan.
- Stirring continuously, bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- For a thicker glaze, add the mixture of cornstarch and water. Let it simmer until it thickens a little bit. Set aside.
Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to: 400°F (200°C).
- Use a paper towel to pat the chicken thighs dry. This step ensures crisp skin.
- Pat each thigh liberally with salt and pepper.
Sear the Chicken (Optional for Crispy Skin)
- Heat a large skillet that can go in the oven over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil.
- Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for 3–4 minutes until crisp and golden. Turn and cook the other side for 2 minutes.
Bake the Chicken
- Set the chicken thighs in your skillet (or move to a baking dish).
- Liberally brushing with the sweet chili sauce, covering each piece of chicken.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, basting the chicken with additional sauce midway through.
Broil for Extra Flavor
- For sticky, caramelized chicken, broil on high for the final 2–3 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn, and test very often.
Serve and Garnish
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds, chopped green onions and lime wedges, as desired.
Notes
How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs
The versatility of this dish is part of its appeal. Here’s how to pair it with these sides for a complete, satisfying meal:
- Rice: Serve it over jasmine, basmati or brown rice to soak up that stickily sweet chili sauce.
- Noodles: Combine with steamed or stir-fried noodles for a filling main course.
- Salad: Serve with a crunchy side salad to one-two punch the flavors and texture.
- Vegetables: Roasted or steamed broccoli, bok choy or snap peas are great sides.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking or pan-searing followed by baking
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! They’ll cook faster, so drop the baking time to around 15–18 minutes.
2. How Spicy is This Dish?
This recipe has a bit of a kick, but if you like it mellower, feel free to add or reduce the chili flakes.
3. Is This Dish Make-Ahead Friendly?
Yes. Make the chicken and sauce ahead of time, keep them separately in airtight containers, and put together when you’re ready to cook.
4. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a microwave to preserve their flavor and texture.
5. Can I Freeze the Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze it! Store cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and then reheat.
6. What Other Proteins Can I Use?
This sauce works just as well with other proteins, chicken breasts, shrimp or even tofu, for vegetarians.
Get Dinner On The Table With Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs!
You’ll be making Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs with regularity. From spicy exceptionality to ease, and versatile use, they are the answer for every occasion. Whether it’s for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe delivers, time and time again.