Sweet Chili Glazed Grilled Chicken Recipe

There’s something magical about that perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and just a hint of heat—and this Sweet Chili Glazed Grilled Chicken delivers exactly that. Juicy, tender chicken breasts are brushed with a sticky, flavorful glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a dish that’s as mouthwatering as it is easy to make.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a restaurant-worthy dinner without leaving home, this recipe hits the sweet spot—literally.

Why You’ll Love Sweet Chili Glazed Grilled Chicken

• Bold flavor balance—sweet, tangy, savory, and spicy in one bite.
• Quick & easy—perfect for weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
• Versatile—pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or fresh salads.
• Grill or stovetop friendly—no special equipment required.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavor deep into the meat.
• Brush the glaze on during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent burning.
• Use a meat thermometer—cook to 165°F (74°C) for perfectly juicy chicken.
• For more heat, add extra chili flakes or a splash of sriracha to the glaze.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
3. Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Sweet Chili Glaze:
4. 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
5. 2 tablespoons soy sauce
6. 1 tablespoon honey
7. 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
8. 2 cloves garlic, minced
9. 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
10. 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry and rub with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
3. Marinate: Place chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour in half of the glaze, reserving the rest for basting. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge).
4. Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Place chicken on the grill and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Glaze & Finish: During the last 2–3 minutes of grilling, brush the reserved glaze over the chicken, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
6. Serve: Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra glaze if desired.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The glaze thickens and clings to the chicken as it cooks, creating a glossy, slightly sticky coating that bursts with flavor in every bite. The sweet chili sauce brings a fruity heat, the honey adds richness, and the soy sauce ties it all together with savory depth.

How to Serve Sweet Chili Glazed Grilled Chicken

• Over steamed jasmine rice with a sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds.
• Alongside grilled vegetables for a light, summery plate.
• Sliced thin in lettuce wraps with fresh herbs.
• Chopped into a Thai-style noodle salad.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Dice and add to fried rice for a quick next-day lunch.
• Shred and toss with extra glaze for sliders.
• Slice and use as a topping for flatbreads or pizza.

Additional Tips

• For extra caramelization, sear chicken over high heat for the last minute on each side.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a covered skillet to keep the chicken moist.

Make It a Showstopper (Presentation Ideas)

Serve the chicken whole on a wooden cutting board, brushed with a final layer of glaze and garnished with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and chili slices for a pop of color.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use chicken thighs? Yes, boneless thighs work great and stay juicy.
2. Can I bake it instead of grilling? Absolutely—bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, glazing halfway through.
3. Is sweet chili sauce spicy? It’s mild with a sweet heat—add more chili for extra spice.
4. Can I make it ahead of time? Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor.
5. How do I keep it from sticking to the grill? Oil the grates well before cooking.
6. Can I use jarred garlic and ginger? Yes, though fresh will give a brighter flavor.
7. What side dishes go best? Rice, stir-fried veggies, or Asian-style salads.
8. Can I freeze it? Yes—freeze after cooking for up to 2 months.
9. How do I thicken the glaze? Simmer it in a small saucepan for a few minutes until syrupy.
10. Can I make it sugar-free? Yes—use a sugar-free sweet chili sauce and omit honey.

Conclusion

Sweet Chili Glazed Grilled Chicken is the ultimate blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy, wrapped up in a juicy, perfectly grilled bite. It’s quick to make, endlessly versatile, and guaranteed to be a crowd favorite—whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout or a cozy weeknight dinner.

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