Sweet Chili Chicken Stir Fry (2024)

Published: Nov 27, 2024 by Caitlin Rule · This post may contain affiliate links

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

This Sweet Chili Chicken Stir Fry is a quick, flavourful 25-minute dinner for busy weeknights. Tender chicken and crisp veggies with a deliciously sweet-spicy sauce over rice.

When life gets busy, cooking a delicious and nutritious meal can be a challenge. Enter this Sweet Chili Chicken Stir Fry—your go-to solution for quick, flavorful weeknight dinners (or any night, really).

Tender chicken pieces are coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory sauce and tossed with colourful vegetables, it’s for a dish that’s both delicious and nutritious. Serve it over jasmine or basmati rice, and you have a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. What makes this dish even better? Its versatility! Use whatever veggies you have on hand. Today’s version features snow peas, spring onions, bell peppers, and bean sprouts, but mushrooms, broccoli, or any of your favorites work beautifully. Customize it to suit your taste and pantry for a dinner that’s always a winner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make my sweet chili chicken stir fry recipe you’ll need a mix of fresh produce and a few pantry staples.

Chicken: Thinly sliced chicken breast cooks quickly, has a mild flavour, and keeps the dish healthy and light.
Veggies: Capsicum (bell peppers), shallots, and snow peas add crunch and natural sweetness.
Broth: Use chicken, vegetable, or even bone broth for the base.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce prevents the dish from becoming too salty. For a gluten-free option, swap it with tamari or coconut aminos.
Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds a perfect balance of sweetness and heat. Choose a brand with your desired spice level or make your own for extra control.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a robust, aromatic flavour. In a pinch, you can substitute with ½ a teaspoon of garlic powder.
Rice Vinegar: Provides a mild acidity to brighten the dish.
Arrowroot Flour: Thickens the sauce for a glossy finish. Swap it with tapioca flour or cornstarch if needed.
Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle on top for a nutty, crunchy garnish.

Complete list of ingredients and amounts is located on the recipe card below.

How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken Stir Fry

Slice the chicken: Use kitchen scissors or a sharp knife to cut the chicken breasts into thin strips.

Make the stir fry sauce: In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the broth, soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and arrowroot starch until smooth.

Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat with a drizzle of avocado oil. Once hot, add the chicken strips in a single layer. Cook for 1 minute on each side until lightly golden.

Add the vegetables: Toss in the snow peas, bell peppers, and shallots. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until the veggies are slightly tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Add the sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well, letting it simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything beautifully.

Serve: Spoon the stir fry over freshly cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds for a final touch, and dig in!

Recipe Variations and Tips

Low Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or use lettuce cups as a base for a lighter option.
Different Veggies: Add variety with green beans, broccoli, baby corn, water chestnuts, or bell peppers.
Swap the Protein: Replace chicken with sliced beef, pork tenderloin, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Even Veggie Sizes: Chop vegetables uniformly to ensure they cook evenly.
Avoid Overcooking: Cook chicken just until done to keep it tender and juicy.
Boost the Flavour: Add fresh ginger, or a dash of toasted sesame oil to enhance the sauce.

How to Store

Store leftover sweet Chili chicken stir fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave. Freezing is not recommended.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this stir-fry. Add them directly to the pan and cook until heated through.

What can I use instead of sweet chili sauce?

Try mixing honey, sriracha, and a splash of soy sauce for a homemade sweet and spicy alternative.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes! Chop the veggies and marinate the chicken ahead of time for a quicker cook when you’re ready.

What’s the best way to cut the chicken?

Slice the chicken into thin strips using kitchen scissors or a sharp knife. For easier slicing, partially freeze the chicken first.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Swap the chicken for tofu or your favourite plant-based protein.

More Stir Fry Recipes

Ground Turkey Teriyaki Stir Fry

15-Minute Peanut Chickpea Stir Fry

Pineapple Tofu Stir Fry

Ground Chicken Stir Fry

If you try thisSweet Chili Chicken Stir Fry recipeor have a question, please let me know! Leave a comment and rate it below. I love to hear what you think, or any changes you make.