The scent of sweet chili sauce mingling with crispy chicken wafting through your kitchen is like a warm hug on a busy weeknight. This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels recipe is turning heads for good reasonit’s a quick, flavor-packed meal that feels indulgent without the guilt.
Enjoy this flavorful Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts recipe that delivers a healthy air fryer dinner packed with sweet and spicy notes. This Sweet Chili Chicken Brussels Sprouts dish is perfect for meal prep or a quick, protein-rich meal any day of the week.
Combine olive oil, soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, ground ginger, and honey in a bowl.
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper then thoroughly coat them with the sauce mixture.
Arrange the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning them once midway, until they reach 165°F (74°C) internally.
Meanwhile, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper; add them to the air fryer basket and air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking once halfway through, until crisp and golden.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing.
Serve the sliced chicken alongside the crispy Brussels sprouts and drizzle any leftover sweet chili sauce over the top if you like.
Notes
Try making extra sweet chili sauce to spoon over the finished dish for more flavor. This recipe can be adapted using chicken thighs or pork tenderloin in place of breasts. Adjust the sweetness and heat by modifying the amount of sweet chili sauce or honey as preferred.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutesperfect for busy weeknights!
Flavorful Fusion: The sweet chili sauce adds a deliciously zesty kick to the chicken, which pairs beautifully with crispy Brussels sprouts.
Healthy and Nourishing: High in protein and packed with veggies, this meal makes for an ideal healthy air fryer dinner.
Family Approved: Kids and adults alike will savor every bitewho doesn’t love a colorful plate filled with deliciousness?
Key Ingredients & Tools
Before we dive into the cooking magic, here’s what you’ll need:
Prep Your Ingredients: Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Mix the marinade in your bowl.
Coat Your Chicken: Season and coat chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they’re well covered.
Air Fry Time: Place chicken in the air fryer and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Brussels Sprouts Magic: Add your Brussels sprouts to the air fryer for the last 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway for that perfect crisp.
Let it Rest: Once everything is done, let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Helpful Tips & Troubleshooting
If you run into any hiccups while making your Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels, here are some tips to smooth things over:
Chicken Doneness: Always check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Brussels Sprout Texture: If you prefer them extra crispy, give them a bit more time in the fryer, but keep an eye on them!
Sweetness Level: Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sweet chili sauce or honey based on your taste. You can also amp up the spice with additional garlic or ginger!
Tweaks & Customizations
This recipe is fantastic as it is, but sometimes it’s fun to mix things up. Here are a few ideas:
Swap Proteins: Try using chicken thighs for a juicier option or even pork tenderloin if you’re feeling adventurous.
Add Veggies: Toss in additional veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for an even more colorful dish.
Extra Sauce: Make extra sweet chili sauce to drizzle over your plated dish for that added flavor punch!
Storage Tips
Type
Storage Method
Duration
Cooked Chicken
Store in an airtight container in the fridge
4-5 days
Brussels Sprouts
Store in the same container or separately in the fridge
3-4 days
Reheating Tips
Use air fryer or oven to reheat for best texture
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Serving Suggestions
Your Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels is perfect as is, but here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:
Serve with Rice or Quinoa: A scoop of fluffy rice or hearty quinoa makes this dish filling and satisfying.
Garnish: A sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions can provide a fresh, lovely finish.
Family Style: Serve it on a big platter for family-style diningeveryone will love digging in!
Expert Says
Using an air fryer for sweet chili chicken and Brussels sprouts not only enhances flavor but also reduces excess fat compared to traditional frying. The hot circulating air achieves a crispy texture while retaining moisture in the chicken, making it a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
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The Path to Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels
After several attempts at perfecting my Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels, each batch brought laughter and a few less-than-tasty moments. I remember one time when I accidentally switched the sugar with salt, leading to a surprise reaction at dinner. Now, this dish is a cherished family favorite, bursting with flavor and crispy goodness.
FAQs ( Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels )
What is the best way to cook Brussels sprouts in an air fryer?
The best way to cook Brussels sprouts in an air fryer is to halve them, toss with a bit of oil and seasoning, and arrange them in a single layer. Cook at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. This method ensures they turn out crispy and flavorful.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
You can use frozen chicken; however, it’s recommended to thaw it first for more even cooking and better flavor absorption. If you’re pressed for time, you can cook it straight from frozen, but increase the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
How long do I cook the chicken?
The chicken should be cooked in the air fryer for about 18-22 minutes at 380°F, depending on the thickness of the pieces. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer for safety; it’s perfect when it registers 165°F.
What sauces pair well with sweet chili chicken?
Sauces like soy sauce, teriyaki, or a garlic chili sauce pair exceptionally well with sweet chili chicken. For a unique twist, consider drizzling some sesame oil on top for extra flavor after cooking. Updating the sauce can enhance the dish and make it versatile for different tastes.
Can I make this a meal prep option?
Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep. Store cooled portions in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat in the microwave or in the air fryer for a few minutes before serving to bring back the crispness.
Conclusion
Your Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors ready in just 25 minutes! With that irresistible aroma and satisfying crunch, you’ll be delighted by how delicious and comforting it feels at home.
Feel free to get creative! Add some bell peppers for color or a drizzle more of sweet chili sauce for a flavor boost. And remember, leftovers reheat beautifully in the air fryer for that crispy magic! A trick I learned from my aunt’s kitchen is to serve it family-style, which makes for such a joyful meal.
I’d love to hear how your family enjoys this dish. Did you grow up with something similar? Snap a pic and share your memories! Save this recipe to share with loved ones because it’s too good to keep to yourselfhappy cooking!
