Sweet Chili Chicken Bowls: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Dinner

Sweet Chili Chicken Bowls are a delightful fusion of flavors that bring a burst of excitement to your dining table. This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a luscious sweet chili sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. Originating from Southeast Asian cuisine, sweet chili sauce has become a beloved staple in many households around the world, celebrated for its perfect balance of sweetness and heat. I absolutely adore how Sweet Chili Chicken Bowls offer a convenient yet satisfying meal option, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. The combination of juicy chicken and crisp veggies creates a delightful texture that keeps everyone coming back for more. Trust me, once you try these Sweet Chili Chicken Bowls, they will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas
• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce better. 2. In a medium bowl, combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Whisk them together until well blended. 3. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss them in the sauce mixture. Make sure every piece is coated well. I usually let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you’re short on time, even 10 minutes will do the trick.

Cooking the Chicken

4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet. 5. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C). 6. Once the chicken is cooked, pour any remaining marinade into the skillet. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This will enhance the flavor and give the chicken a nice glaze.

Preparing the Vegetables

7. While the chicken is cooking, prepare your vegetables. I like to wash and slice the red and yellow bell peppers into thin strips. 8. In a separate pot, bring a small amount of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and snap peas, and steam them for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright and tender-crisp. 9. Drain the vegetables and set them aside. You can toss them with a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor if you like.

Assembling the Bowls

10. Now it’s time to assemble your sweet chili chicken bowls! Start by placing a generous scoop of cooked jasmine rice at the bottom of each bowl. 11. Next, add a portion of the sweet chili chicken on top of the rice. Make sure to drizzle some of that delicious sauce over the chicken for extra flavor. 12. Then, arrange the steamed broccoli, snap peas, and sliced bell peppers around the chicken. I like to make it colorful, so I try to distribute the veggies evenly. 13. Finally, sprinkle the chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top for a nice finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions

14. Serve the sweet chili chicken bowls warm. You can also offer extra sweet chili sauce on the side for those who like a little more heat. 15. If you want to add a bit of crunch, consider serving with some crispy wonton strips or fried onions on top.

Storage Tips

16. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 17. To reheat, simply microwave the bowl for a couple of minutes until heated through. You can add a splash of water to the rice to keep it from drying out.

Variations

18. Feel free to customize your sweet chili chicken bowls! You can swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp if you prefer. 19. Add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or even corn for a different flavor profile. 20. For a spicy kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the sauce mixture. Enjoy your delicious sweet chili chicken bowls! They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the vibrant colors of the vegetables, makes this dish not only tasty but also visually appealing. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

In summary, these Sweet Chili Chicken Bowls are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a burst of flavor and a touch of sweetness. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and that irresistible sweet chili sauce creates a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp, or even add in your favorite seasonal veggies to make it your own. I highly recommend serving these bowls over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal that will leave you feeling satisfied. For an extra kick, consider garnishing with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! I’d love to hear how your Sweet Chili Chicken Bowls turn out, so don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you add. Happy cooking! Print

June 5, 2025 by Melissa