Sweet Chili Chicken Stir-Fry

If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful dinner that’s as quick as it is satisfying, this Sweet Chili Chicken Stir-Fry is exactly what you need. Combining tender slices of chicken breast with crisp, colorful vegetables and a perfectly balanced sweet chili sauce, this dish brings a delightful mix of heat, sweetness, and freshness to your dinner table. Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a weeknight winner for busy cooks who don’t want to compromise on taste. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice, and you’ve got a wholesome meal that everyone will love.

Why This Recipe Works

This Sweet Chili Chicken Stir-Fry hits all the right notes thanks to a few key elements. First, using chicken breast sliced thinly ensures the meat cooks quickly and stays juicy. The bright bell peppers, broccoli, and carrot provide a satisfying crunch and vibrant color, elevating both nutrition and presentation. The sweet chili sauce, paired with soy sauce, creates a luscious glaze that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors with just a hint of spice.

Additionally, the fresh garlic and ginger amp up the aroma and depth, making each bite truly irresistible. The quick stir-fry method locks in flavor and texture without overcooking the veggies. This recipe is also versatile—you can easily swap in other vegetables or proteins depending on what you have on hand. That’s why it’s a great staple recipe to keep in your rotation.

Shopping List

• 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil with a high smoke point)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 3 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice, for serving

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Wok or large non-stick skillet – ensures quick, even cooking and plenty of room to toss ingredients
• Sharp chef’s knife – for slicing chicken and vegetables thinly and evenly
• Cutting board – a clean surface for prep
• Measuring spoons and cups – for accuracy with sauces
• Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring while cooking
• Bowl – to toss chicken with seasonings before cooking

How to Prepare Sweet Chili Chicken Stir-Fry

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by slicing your chicken breast into thin strips. This helps it cook evenly and quickly. Slice the red and yellow bell peppers into thin strips, julienne the carrot, chop the green onions separating the white from the green parts, and cut the broccoli into small florets. Mince the garlic and fresh ginger finely for maximum flavor release.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, toss the sliced chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple step seasons the meat before it hits the pan, enhancing the final flavor.

Step 3: Heat the Pan and Cook Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken strips in a single layer. Cook without stirring for about 2 minutes to get a nice sear, then stir and cook another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Veggies

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Toss in the minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the bell peppers, broccoli florets, and julienned carrot. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes, until vegetables are crisp-tender but still vibrant.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the sweet chili sauce and soy sauce. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat the chicken and veggies evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon the Sweet Chili Chicken Stir-Fry over freshly cooked rice and garnish with the green parts of the chopped green onions. Serve immediately for a warm, comforting meal.

Spring to Winter: Ideas

• Swap in snap peas or sugar snap peas during spring for added crunch.
• Try adding baby corn or water chestnuts for a textural twist.
• In summer, toss in zucchini ribbons or fresh snow peas for lightness.
• In autumn, incorporate sliced mushrooms or kale for earthiness.
• During colder months, swap broccoli with roasted Brussels sprouts or add a handful of chopped nuts for warmth.

Errors to Dodge

• Overcrowding the pan – this causes steaming instead of stir-frying, resulting in soggy vegetables and unevenly cooked chicken.
• Cutting chicken pieces unevenly – inconsistent sizes lead to uneven cooking times, some pieces dry out while others remain undercooked.
• Adding sauce too early – adding the sweet chili sauce before the veggies are cooked can make the stir-fry watery and less flavorful.
• Neglecting to preheat the pan – a hot pan is essential for that signature stir-fry sear and crispness.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crispness of the vegetables and avoid drying out the chicken. If the sauce thickens too much during storage, add a splash of water or broth when reheating. For best results, cook fresh rice when serving again, or use leftover rice stored separately.

Your Top Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and add a richer flavor. Just slice them thinly as you would the breast and adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a minute or two longer to cook through.

Is there a substitute for sweet chili sauce?

If you don’t have sweet chili sauce, you can mix honey or maple syrup with a bit of chili flakes and rice vinegar to create a similar sweet-spicy tang. Alternatively, try a store-bought Asian glaze or sauce that balances sweetness and heat.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To turn up the heat, add sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of chili garlic sauce along with the garlic and ginger. You can also sprinkle extra crushed red pepper flakes when serving.

Can I turn this into Sweet Chili Chicken Stir Fry Noodles?

Definitely! Cook your favorite noodles separately, then toss them into the stir-fry during the final step to coat with sauce. This makes a hearty noodle bowl variation that’s just as tasty and easy.

Keep Cooking

• Explore more quick chicken dishes like Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry for a classic combo.
• Try out delicious seafood options such as the tangy and savory Sticky Sesame Garlic Shrimp.
• Master the art of easy weeknight meals with simple stir-fry techniques and sauces.
• Experiment with vegetable swaps and homemade sauces to customize your stir-fries to your taste.

The Takeaway

Making Sweet Chili Chicken Stir-Fry is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, colorful dinner that’s quick to prepare and satisfying. The combination of tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a perfectly balanced sweet chili glaze makes this dish a standout for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is sure to impress with its ease and deliciousness. Don’t hesitate to tweak the ingredients and spice levels to suit your preferences—this stir-fry is as adaptable as it is tasty.

Give this recipe a try tonight and enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite!

Share on Pinterest