Print

Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Juicy chicken thighs coated in a glossy, sweet, spicy, and tangy sauce made with sweet chili, soy, and honey. This quick, flavorful dish caramelizes beautifully and pairs perfectly with rice or vegetables.

Ingredients

  • 6 chicken thighs (boneless or bone-in, skin-on or skinless)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced or grated
  • 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar or 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or 1 tsp chili paste (optional, for extra heat)
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken thighs dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs on both sides until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Stir and simmer until slightly thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
  5. Return chicken to the skillet, coating each piece with sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook 10–15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. For baked version: transfer to a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven and bake 15–20 minutes until cooked through and sticky.
  7. Remove the lid (or from oven) and simmer uncovered a few extra minutes to thicken the glaze.
  8. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

  • Adjust spice level by adding more or less chili flakes or paste.
  • Use chicken breasts or wings as alternatives, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
  • For a crispier version, bake at 425°F and glaze in the last 5 minutes.
  • Grilling option: grill chicken first, then toss in sauce before serving.
  • The sauce thickens further as it cools—perfect for sticky glazing.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/sticky-sweet-chili-chicken-thighs-2/