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Crispy Sweet Chili Chicken

A plate of crispy sweet chili chicken garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

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Enjoy this crispy chicken coated in a sticky sweet chili glaze, perfect for a weeknight meal. This recipe uses cornstarch for maximum crispiness and a simple sauce that clings to the chicken.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (cornstarch slurry)
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish
  • Chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1/4 cup cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the coated chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the thickened sauce.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Notes

  • For extra crispy chicken, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. A temperature of 350°F (175°C) is ideal for shallow frying.
  • You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but thighs tend to stay more moist.
  • Adjust the sweetness and spice of the sauce by using different brands of sweet chili sauce or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • This dish is great served over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

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