Sweet Chili Chicken Bites in 20 Minutes
Sweet Chili Chicken Bites are a quick and tasty dish that can be made in just 20 minutes. This recipe brings together crunchy chicken pieces and a delightful sweet chili glaze. Perfect for appetizers or a fun dinner!
Why Make This Recipe
Sweet Chili Chicken Bites are easy to prepare and require minimal ingredients. They are a crowd-pleaser and satisfy both kids and adults. If you need a quick meal or snack, this recipe will save you time while delivering great flavors.
How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken Bites
Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ¼ cup avocado oil or neutral oil (for frying)
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- ¼ cup rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onion
Directions:
- Prep the chicken: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss in cornstarch and coat every piece evenly.
- Mix the glaze: In a bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and vegetarian oyster sauce. Set aside.
- Sear the chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken in a single layer for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan. Remove and set aside.
- Thicken the glaze: In the same pan, pour in the sauce mixture and simmer until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Add the chicken back into the pan and toss until fully coated and glossy. Serve immediately.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onion.
How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken Bites
These chicken bites can be served as an appetizer or main dish. They pair well with steamed rice or a fresh salad. For added flavor, you can serve them with extra sweet chili sauce on the side.
How to Store Sweet Chili Chicken Bites
To store leftovers, place the chicken bites in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can be kept for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Tips to Make Sweet Chili Chicken Bites
- Make sure to cut chicken into even pieces for consistent cooking.
- Do not skip the cornstarch coating; it helps achieve that crispy texture.
- Keep an eye on the chicken while frying to avoid burning.
Variation
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the skillet when cooking. They complement the chicken and add more color and nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw the chicken before preparation for the best texture and flavor.
2. Is there a substitute for sweet chili sauce?
You can make a simple mix of honey and hot sauce as a substitute.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure that your sweet chili sauce is gluten-free.
Sweet Chili Chicken Bites
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup cornstarch for coating
- ¼ cup avocado oil or neutral oil for frying
For the Sauce
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- ¼ cup rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Garnish
- sesame seeds
- green onion
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss in cornstarch and coat every piece evenly.
Make the Glaze
- In a bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and vegetarian oyster sauce. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken in a single layer for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan. Remove and set aside.
Thicken the Glaze
- In the same pan, pour in the sauce mixture and simmer until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
Combine and Serve
- Add the chicken back into the pan and toss until fully coated and glossy. Serve immediately and garnish with sesame seeds and green onion.