
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep and cleanup.
- Flavor Explosion : The sweet chili sauce adds a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and spice.
- Packed with Veggies : Loaded with colorful, nutrient-rich vegetables for a healthy boost.
- Customizable : Swap proteins, veggies, or sauces to suit your taste.
- 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
- Slice the chicken into thin strips and set aside.
- Chop all the vegetables and mince the garlic and ginger.
- 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
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- 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
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Add the broccoli, carrots, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes , until slightly tender but still crisp.
- 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
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
- 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
- Transfer the stir-fry to plates or bowls. Garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or fresh cilantro if desired.
- 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. ๐ฒ