Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken

If you are searching for a super satisfying meal that takes no time but feels extra special, Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts delivers every single time. You get juicy, tender pieces of chicken with a glossy sweet chili glaze and crispy Brussels sprouts that honestly could convert even picky eaters. Prep is a breeze, so dinner gets on the table fast, with flavors that make it taste like you put in a whole lot more work than you actually did. This dish quickly became a go-to for those nights when I want something nourishing but do not want to be stuck at the stove for hours.

I first made this on a chaotic weeknight when everyone was hungry and cranky. Now it is a meal we look forward to for its flavor and how stress free it is to make.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose ones that are plump and firm to the touch for best results
• Olive oil: Adds a bit of richness and helps everything crisp up in the air fryer
• Soy sauce: Brings salty umami flavor opt for low sodium if you want the dish less salty
• Sweet chili sauce: Coats the chicken with sweet sticky heat look for brands without tons of additives
• Rice vinegar: Adds tang and balances the sweetness clear and bright vinegar works best
• Garlic powder: Gives the glaze depth and warmth make sure it smells fresh not musty
• Ground ginger: Brings subtle spice and aroma fresh ginger powder gives better flavor
• Honey: Optional but a nice touch if you like your sauce extra sticky with a hint of sweetness
• Brussels sprouts: Choose small firm sprouts trim and halve for even roasting
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning taste before adding extra since soy sauce is salty

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Get your air fryer warming to three seventy five degrees Fahrenheit so it is ready when you are done prepping This helps everything start crisping straight away

Make the Sauce:

Combine olive oil soy sauce sweet chili sauce rice vinegar garlic powder ground ginger and honey in a small bowl Whisk until blended and smooth This is your main flavor builder

Marinate the Chicken:

Season your chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper Dip them into the prepared sauce ensuring each piece is fully coated This step adds flavor inside and out

Cook the Chicken:

Lay the chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket Set the timer for twelve to fifteen minutes Flip each piece halfway through Look for caramelized edges and a juicy texture Use a thermometer to check for one sixty five degrees Fahrenheit inside

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:

While the chicken cooks toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil salt and pepper Coat evenly to encourage crisping but do not soak with oil

Air Fry the Sprouts:

When the chicken is almost finished add the Brussels sprouts to the air fryer basket Cook for eight to ten minutes shaking the basket once to brown all sides Well cooked sprouts will be golden and slightly crispy

Rest and Serve:

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing Arrange with Brussels sprouts and spoon any extra sauce from the basket over the top for max flavor

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I always look forward to those crispy caramelized bits of Brussels sprouts and love seeing my family reach for seconds even those who once claimed to hate them This dish has turned many curious skeptics into full time Brussels sprout fans in my house

Storage Tips

Let everything cool completely before transferring leftovers to airtight containers Store chicken and sprouts separately for best texture Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to revive crispiness Avoid microwaving if you want to keep things from turning soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken thighs are perfect if you want a richer flavor and even juicier meat Tofu cubes are great for a plant based version making sure to press out moisture first You can swap honey for maple syrup and use tamari for a gluten free alternative to soy sauce

Serving Suggestions

This dish feels complete on its own but sometimes I serve it over steamed rice or quinoa to make it extra filling If you have extra sweet chili sauce add it at the table so everyone can drizzle to taste A sprinkle of chopped scallions or sesame seeds on top adds a pop of freshness

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Cultural Notes

Sweet chili sauce is a Southeast Asian staple that brings brightness and a gentle heat You will find it on street food and in home kitchens across Thailand and Vietnam Pairing it with crispy Brussels sprouts is my bit of fusion fun making this dish a delicious bridge between classic comfort and bold international flavor

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I keep the chicken breasts juicy?

Coat the chicken thoroughly in the marinade to seal in moisture, and cook just until it reaches 165°F (74°C) for best results.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well and offer extra juiciness and flavor. Adjust cooking time as needed for thickness.

→ How do I make the Brussels sprouts extra crispy?

Toss the Brussels sprouts in olive oil and spread them in a single layer. Shake the basket midway for even browning.

→ Can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a squirt of sriracha to the chili sauce for more heat without overpowering sweetness.

→ Are there alternative proteins I can try?

Pork tenderloin or tofu are excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking times based on your chosen protein for the best outcome.

→ Do I need to pre-cook Brussels sprouts?

No, simply halve and toss them in oil. The air fryer will cook them quickly, making them tender and crispy at the edges.