Food 31/03/2025 00:26

Sweet Chili Chicken & Veggie Stir-Fry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Quick & Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep and cleanup.
  2. Flavor Explosion : The sweet chili sauce adds a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and spice.
  3. Packed with Veggies : Loaded with colorful, nutrient-rich vegetables for a healthy boost.
  4. Customizable : Swap proteins, veggies, or sauces to suit your taste.
  5. One-Pan Wonder : Everything cooks in one skillet for easy cleanup.
 

Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves 4

 

For the Stir-Fry:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs , thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
  • 1 red bell pepper , sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper , sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 medium carrot , julienned or thinly sliced
  • 1 cup snap peas (or snow peas)
  • 3 cloves garlic , minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger , grated
 

For the Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
  • 1 tsp sriracha (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (to thicken the sauce)
 

Optional Garnishes:

  • Sesame seeds
  • Green onions , sliced
  • Fresh cilantro , chopped
 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Ingredients

  1. Slice the chicken into thin strips and set aside.
  2. Chop all the vegetables and mince the garlic and ginger.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha (if using), and cornstarch slurry. Set aside.
 

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes , stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
 

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

  1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
  2. Add the broccoli, carrots, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes , until slightly tender but still crisp.
  3. Add the bell peppers, garlic, and ginger. Cook for another 2–3 minutes , until the vegetables are tender-crisp and fragrant.
 

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
  2. Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for 1–2 minutes , until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.
 

Step 5: Serve

  1. Transfer the stir-fry to plates or bowls. Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or fresh cilantro if desired.
  2. Serve hot with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal.
 

Why This Recipe Works

  • Sweet Chili Sauce Magic : Adds a sticky, tangy, slightly spicy flavor that ties everything together.
  • Quick Cooking : High heat ensures the chicken stays tender and the veggies remain crisp.
  • Versatile Ingredients : Use whatever vegetables or protein you have on hand—it’s hard to go wrong!
 

Variations to Try

  • Switch Proteins : Use shrimp, tofu, beef, or pork instead of chicken.
  • Add Spice : Increase the sriracha or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
  • Gluten-Free Option : Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your sweet chili sauce is GF-friendly.
  • Low-Carb Version : Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice.
  • Extra Veggies : Add mushrooms, zucchini, bok choy, or baby corn for even more nutrition.
 

Tips for Success

  • Prep Ahead : Chop all ingredients before you start cooking—stir-fries cook quickly, so you’ll want everything ready to go.
  • Don’t Overcook the Veggies : Keep them crisp-tender for the best texture and flavor.
  • Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or skillet.
 

Serving Suggestions

  • Romantic Touch : Plate with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh herbs for elegance.
  • Brunch Staple : Serve alongside scrambled eggs or omelets for a hearty brunch.
  • Party Platter : Arrange with dumplings, spring rolls, or potstickers for variety.
 

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Chili Chicken & Veggie Stir-Fry is a celebration of bold flavors and vibrant colors, offering a dish that feels indulgent yet healthy. With its sticky-sweet sauce, tender chicken, and crisp veggies, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual dinner, or simply craving something satisfying.

Your turn! Have you ever made a stir-fry before? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. ๐Ÿฒ

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