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Delicious glazed sweet chili chicken served on a plate with garnish

Sweet Chili Chicken

A delightful dish featuring savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors, perfect for family meals and gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Thai
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the chicken
  • 12 oz skinless boneless chicken breast or thigh Opting for chicken breast gives a tender, juicy outcome.
  • 1 tablespoon oil (for deep-frying) Essential for achieving a crispy exterior.
  • 1 egg white egg white Helps bind the batter and adds crunch after frying.
For the batter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Provides the base for a crispy coating.
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch Helps achieve extra crunchiness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder Makes the batter light and airy.
  • 1/2 cup water (ice cold) Ice-cold water ensures extra crispy fried chicken.
  • 1 pinch salt Enhances the flavor of the batter.
For flavoring
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced) Adds aromatic warmth.
  • 4 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce Provides the sweet and spicy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice Balances sweetness with refreshing acidity.
  • 1 pinch salt Elevates the overall flavors.
  • 1/2 teaspoon white sesame Fantastic garnish adding texture.
  • 1/2 tablespoon chopped cilantro leaves Adds freshness.
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil Needed for stir-frying after the chicken is fried.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a bowl, mix all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, egg white, a pinch of salt, and ice-cold water. Stir until a smooth batter forms.
  2. Cut the chicken into small pieces and coat them with the batter.
Frying
  1. Heat about two inches of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Test the oil by dropping a small bit of batter; if it sizzles, it's ready.
  3. Carefully add the battered chicken to the hot oil in batches. Fry until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per batch, then transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
Finishing Touches
  1. In the same wok, add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil and sauté the minced garlic until aromatic.
  2. Add the fried chicken, Thai sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to coat.
  3. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with white sesame seeds and cilantro. Serve immediately.

Notes

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in sweet chili sauce and lime juice for 30 minutes ahead of time. Maintain oil temperature to avoid greasy chicken, and add vegetables for extra nutrition.