Here’s a detailed guide for making Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs, a savory and sweet dish with a deliciously sticky glaze that will leave your taste buds craving more!

Introduction

Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs are the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory. The chicken thighs become tender and juicy, coated in a thick, sticky glaze made from sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, and a hint of garlic. It’s an easy yet flavorful dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. The sweetness of the chili sauce combined with the heat and savory notes makes this dish irresistible.

The History of Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs

Sweet chili sauce, a key ingredient in this recipe, originates from Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand. The sauce is typically made with a combination of chili peppers, sugar, vinegar, garlic, and sometimes fish sauce, giving it a distinctive sweet and spicy flavor profile. In the Western world, sweet chili sauce has become popular in various Asian-inspired dishes, including wings, noodles, and grilled meats.

Chicken thighs, known for their rich flavor and tenderness, are often used in this type of recipe due to their ability to absorb flavors well and stay juicy during cooking. This dish blends the classic Asian-inspired sweet chili sauce with chicken to create a delicious sticky glaze.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you’ll need for these delicious Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs:

For the Chicken:

Chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless) – Bone-in chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness, but boneless can also be used.
Olive oil or vegetable oil – For searing the chicken.
Salt and pepper – For seasoning the chicken before cooking.

For the Sticky Sweet Chili Glaze:

Sweet chili sauce – The base of the glaze, providing sweetness and heat.
Soy sauce – Adds saltiness and umami to balance the sweetness.
Honey – Enhances the sweetness and thickens the sauce.
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds a savory depth.
Ginger (optional) – Adds a fragrant and slightly spicy element.
Rice vinegar – Provides acidity to balance the richness of the sauce.
Cornstarch (optional) – Helps thicken the sauce further for a stickier glaze.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them get a crispy, golden skin when seared.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
Sear the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs, skin-side down if using bone-in thighs. Sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.
- Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes on the other side, or until the chicken is nearly cooked through. If using boneless thighs, they will cook faster, around 4-5 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sweet Chili Glaze:
- In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic (and ginger if using) over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- In a small bowl, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry (optional, for a thicker sauce). Add this mixture to the glaze and stir. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken for 3-5 minutes.
Coat the Chicken:
- Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up. Spoon the sticky sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated.
- Continue to simmer the chicken in the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure the glaze sticks to the chicken and becomes thick and glossy.
Serve:
- Once the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C), remove it from the skillet.
- Serve the sticky chicken thighs with a drizzle of the sauce from the pan. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs

Don’t Skip the Searing Step: Searing the chicken gives it a crispy exterior and locks in juices, making the chicken even more flavorful.
Use Fresh Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger will give the sauce a depth of flavor that pre-made garlic or powdered ginger can’t match.
Control the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of sweet chili sauce or use a mild version. If you like it spicier, add some chili flakes or a chopped fresh chili to the sauce.
Thicken the Sauce: If you want a thicker glaze, make sure to add the cornstarch slurry. The thicker the sauce, the stickier it will be on the chicken.
Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to help it retain its juices.

Variations and Customizations

Spicy Option: Add sliced fresh chilies or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicier kick.
Grilled Sticky Chicken Thighs: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken thighs and then coat them with the sticky sweet chili glaze, brushing it on during the last few minutes of grilling.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can use tofu or cauliflower “steaks” as the base and coat them with the sweet chili glaze.
Add Vegetables: Stir-fry some bell peppers, onions, or broccoli in the skillet before adding the glaze to make it a more complete meal.
Crockpot Version: You can cook the chicken thighs in a crockpot with the sauce for 4-6 hours on low for an easy, hands-off version. The result will be fall-apart tender chicken.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs are flavorful but can be rich in calories and sodium. Here are some health considerations:

Calories and Fat: The chicken thighs provide protein and flavor, but they’re higher in fat than lean cuts like chicken breasts. The sauce contains sugar and honey, adding to the calorie count. If you’re watching your calorie intake, consider using skinless chicken thighs or reducing the amount of honey.
Sodium: Soy sauce and sweet chili sauce are both high in sodium. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re concerned about salt intake.
Balance with Sides: Pair the dish with healthier sides like steamed vegetables or a light salad to balance the richness of the chicken.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on skinless boneless thighs):

Calories: 350-450
Protein: 30-35g
Fat: 20-25g
Carbs: 20-25g
Sugar: 15-20g

FAQ

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
- Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs are preferred due to their juiciness and ability to hold up to the sticky glaze. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but for best results, cook the chicken fresh. The sauce can be stored in the fridge for a few days and reheated when ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of sauce?
- While sweet chili sauce is key for the signature flavor, you could experiment with other sauces like teriyaki or hoisin for a different twist.
How can I make this dish healthier?
- Use skinless, boneless chicken thighs or chicken breasts, reduce the amount of honey, and use a lower-sodium soy sauce to make the dish a bit lighter.
Can I freeze Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs?
- Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken thighs with the sauce. Let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven or on the stovetop.

Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs are a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to make a quick weeknight dinner or impress guests at a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Ingredients

6 bone-in chicken thighs
1 tbsp avocado oil
1 tsp lemon pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
Sticky Glaze
1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
3 tbsp of soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil

Instructions

tep 1: Preparing the Chicken Thighs (oven or air fryer)
Start by preheating your oven or air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to ensure a crispy chicken skin.
Step 2: Season the chicken
In a small bowl, mix the avocado oil, lemon pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this flavorful seasoning mix all over the chicken thighs, ensuring an even coating.
Step 3: Air fry or Roast the chicken
Air fry: Air fry the chicken skin side down at 375 degrees for 15 minutes.
Oven: Line the baking tray with parchment paper. Roast the chicken skin side down for 20 minutes at 400 degrees. Flip and roast for 10 minutes until the skin is crispy.
Step 4: Sticky Sauce
While the chicken is air fryer or roasting, prepare the sticky sauce.
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce.
Step 5: Applying the Sticky Glaze
Baste the chicken a few times with the sticky sauce while roasting or air frying. You want the chicken to be caramelized. I basted the chicken at least 4 times to get a nice coat of the glaze.
Add more 10 minutes of cooking time to the chicken or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Broiling for Extra Crispiness (Optional – highly recommended)
For an extra crispy finish, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning and ensure that the chicken skin becomes beautifully caramelized.
Step 7: Serving
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve your Sticky Sweet Chilli Chicken Thighs over a bed of jasmine rice or with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

- For a crispy chicken: Make sure the chicken is patted dry with paper towel.

Caramelized chicken: Broil for an extra 2 minutes at the end to get the chicken extra sticky and caramelized.

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