Pin it This dish showcases tender chicken pieces glazed in sweet chili sauce, served over jasmine rice and topped with crisp cabbage, carrots, and cucumber. It’s finished with a smooth coconut lime drizzle that adds a bright, creamy touch. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro enhance the textures and layers of flavor. Fast to prepare and easy to cook, this bowl captures a balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes for an uplifting meal.
The first time I made this sweet chili chicken, my kitchen smelled like a warm embrace of ginger and lime. My roommate poked her head in, asking what restaurant I ordered from, and looked genuinely shocked when I told her I cooked it myself. Now whenever friends come over, this is the dish they actually request by name.
Last summer, I served this at a small dinner party when I was nervous about cooking for new people. Within minutes of sitting down, the conversation shifted completely to how incredible the sauce was, and I spent the rest of the evening feeling quietly triumphant.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts or thighs: Thighs stay juicier but breasts work beautifully if you prefer leaner meat
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning that lets the bold flavors shine through
- Cornstarch: Creates that gorgeous glossy coating and helps the sauce cling to every piece
- Sweet chili sauce: The backbone of the dish, look for one with good chili heat balance
- Soy sauce: Adds that savory depth that balances the sweetness perfectly
- Rice vinegar: Cuts through the richness with just the right brightness
- Honey: Natural sweetness that helps the sauce caramelize beautifully
- Fresh ginger: Grating it fresh makes such a difference in aroma and flavor
- Garlic: Minced finely so it melts into the sauce without burning
- Coconut milk: Full fat canned coconut milk creates the creamiest drizzle
- Lime juice and zest: Both add different layers of bright, citrusy freshness
- Jasmine rice: Its natural floral perfume pairs perfectly with the coconut lime notes
- Vegetables: Purple cabbage, carrots, and cucumber add crunch and color that makes the bowl sing
- Fresh cilantro and sesame seeds: The finishing touches that make it feel special
Instructions
- Prep the chicken:
- Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels, cut into even bite sized pieces, then season generously with salt and pepper before tossing in cornstarch until coated.
- Sear the chicken:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat until shimmering, add chicken in a single layer, and cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Whisk the glaze:
- Combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic in a small bowl until smooth.
- Glaze the chicken:
- Return chicken to the skillet, pour the sauce over, and toss constantly for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens into that gorgeous sticky coating.
- Make the coconut lime drizzle:
- Whisk together coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, honey, and pinch of salt until completely smooth and creamy.
- Build your bowls:
- Divide warm rice among four bowls, arrange the glazed chicken on top, and scatter cabbage, carrots, and cucumber around generously.
- Finish with flair:
- Drizzle with coconut lime sauce, sprinkle with fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds, and serve with lime wedges for squeezing.
Pin it My sister said this was the best thing I have ever made her, and she is usually my harshest critic. There is something about the combination of sweet, spicy, and creamy that just works magic on people.
Making It Your Own
Swap brown rice or quinoa for jasmine if you want more fiber and nuttiness. Add sliced avocado for creaminess or edamame for extra protein, and adjust sriracha in the drizzle if you love heat.
Perfecting The Sauce
Watch the sauce closely in those final minutes, it goes from perfect to too thick faster than you expect. If it gets too thick, a splash of water or coconut milk brings it back to life.
Serving Suggestions
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness beautifully, or try a light lager if you prefer beer. The dish needs something refreshing to balance the bold flavors.
- Prep all vegetables before starting the chicken for the smoothest workflow
- Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan for 2 minutes to deepen their nutty flavor
- Extra lime wedges on the side let everyone adjust brightness to their taste
Pin it This bowl has become my go to for nights when I want something that feels impressive but comes together easily. Hope it brings as many happy moments to your table as it has to mine.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How can I make the chicken extra tender?
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Pat the chicken dry and coat it evenly with cornstarch before cooking. This helps create a tender outer layer while keeping the inside moist.
- → Can I substitute jasmine rice with other grains?
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Yes, brown rice or quinoa work well as alternatives and add extra fiber and nutrition.
- → What adds the creamy texture in the drizzle?
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The coconut milk combined with lime juice and zest creates a smooth, creamy drizzle that balances the spicy glaze.
- → How do I add extra heat without overpowering the dish?
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Incorporate a small amount of sriracha into the coconut lime drizzle to give a subtle spicy kick without dominating the flavors.
- → What can I add to increase protein content?
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Sliced avocado or edamame are excellent additions that boost protein and add creaminess.
