© Original recipe by The Spoon Studio ©
🔥Sweet Chili Chicken with Crispy Brussels Sprouts in the Air Fryer🧑🍳
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a flavorful, sticky, and downright addictive dish, look no further than Sweet Chili Chicken. This dish combines tender, juicy pieces of chicken coated in a luscious sweet chili sauce, finished with a crispy exterior from the air fryer. Paired with roasted Brussels sprouts, this easy dinner brings the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. Not only is it super satisfying, but it’s also quick to make using your favorite kitchen gadgets. Whether you’re cooking for weeknights or impressing guests, this recipe checks all the boxes.
2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 30 minutes: Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and crispy: Uses the air fryer for that crispy texture without excess oil.
- Flavorful & aromatic: The sweet chili sauce adds a spicy-sweet kick that elevates ordinary chicken.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable for different spice levels or ingredient substitutions.
3. Ingredient Notes
For this Sweet Chili Chicken recipe, quality ingredients matter. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for maximum juiciness — they stay tender even after air frying. The sweet chili sauce is the star, so opt for a good-quality brand with a balanced sweetness and enough heat. You can find excellent options at your local grocery or explore handmade versions for extra flavor. Fresh Brussels sprouts should be firm and vibrant green; roasting them intensifies their nutty flavor and crispy edges. When choosing oil, a high-heat oil like avocado or vegetable oil ensures a perfect crisp without smoking.
4. Kitchen Tools You Need
To make this dish, your kitchen arsenal will be put to good use. The Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer makes achieving crispy chicken and roasted Brussels sprouts a breeze, thanks to its versatile settings and even heat distribution. Cooking with an air fryer reduces oil use but still delivers that satisfying crunch. For prepping ingredients efficiently, the Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master can chop, slice, and dice vegetables in seconds, saving you time and effort. Investing in quality cookware, like the T-fal 14-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set, ensures even heating and durability for future recipes.
5. How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken with Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Toss the chicken in a cornstarch or arrowroot powder for an extra crispy finish. When placing in the air fryer, arrange the pieces in a single layer—crowding the basket can prevent crisping. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through. You’ll know the chicken is ready when it turns golden and crispy, with an aromatic smell filling your kitchen.
Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
While the chicken cooks, halve the Brussels sprouts and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly in the air fryer or on a baking tray. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes until they develop crispy edges and a tender core. The sprouts will emit a nutty aroma, adding depth to your dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Sweet Chili Sauce
Heat your favorite sweet chili sauce in a small saucepan or microwave. If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer it for a few minutes until slightly reduced. Mix the cooked chicken with the sauce thoroughly, ensuring every piece is coated in that glossy, spicy-sweet goodness.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Serve the glazed sweet chili chicken over the crispy Brussels sprouts. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for extra crunch and flavor. Pair with steamed jasmine rice or noodles to make this a complete, satisfying meal.
6. Expert Tips for Success
- Ensure your chicken pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning and cornstarch for maximum crispness.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket—this prevents steaming and promotes even cooking.
- If you like hisp instead of sweet, add a splash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of lime for brightness.
- Use a digital thermometer to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and juiciness.
- For an extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts or toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.
7. Variations & Substitutions
If you’re seeking alternatives, consider swapping the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood twist. For a lower-sugar version, select a sugar-free sweet chili sauce or make your own at home using honey, chili flakes, and vinegar. To keep things paleo or keto, serve with cauliflower rice and substitute the sweet chili sauce with a spicy sriracha glaze.
8. Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and Brussels sprouts in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until crispy and heated through. Reheating in the air fryer maintains crispiness better than the microwave, ensuring your meal stays flavorful and satisfying.
9. FAQ
Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts?
Yes, but chicken breasts tend to be leaner and can dry out if overcooked. To keep them moist, marinate briefly and reduce cooking time slightly.
How spicy is sweet chili sauce?
The heat level varies by brand; choose a mild or hot version based on your spice preference. You can also add extra chili flakes for more heat.
Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be, if you select a gluten-free sweet chili sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. Always check labels!
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry them before roasting to achieve a crispy texture. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed.
10. Conclusion
This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken with Brussels Sprouts is a flavorful, crispy, spice-kissed meal perfect for a quick supper. It combines the best of crunchy vegetables and tender, coated chicken in a sweet chili glaze. The air fryer simplifies the process and ensures everything is perfectly cooked and crisp. Give this recipe a try tonight and enjoy an easy dinner that’s full of flavor and healthy goodness!
Print
Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken with Brussels Sprouts
A flavorful and healthy dinner combining crispy sweet chili chicken with roasted Brussels sprouts, cooked effortlessly in an air fryer.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into strips
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, toss chicken strips with half of the sweet chili sauce.
- Arrange Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Add Brussels sprouts to the basket and cook for an additional 10 minutes until chicken is crispy and sprouts are roasted.
- Toss cooked chicken with remaining sweet chili sauce, garnish with herbs, and serve hot.
Notes
- Ensure chicken pieces are evenly coated for optimal crispiness.
- Adjust cooking time for thicker chicken cuts.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Air frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Low Carb
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 350 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg