Transform your chicken into a delicious, quick, and flavorful meal with this magic sauce. Baked Sweet Chili Chicken Bites combine sweet and spicy flavors with a hint of heat, making them perfect for any occasion. Inspired by Asian cuisine with a Western twist, these bites are healthier than fried alternatives and packed with flavor. Ideal for parties, family dinners, or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1.5 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Cooked noodles or rice, for serving
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions or sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Chili Sauce
- In a medium bowl, combine rice vinegar, honey, warm water, cornstarch, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, Sriracha (if using), and salt. Whisk until smooth.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Place the bite-sized chicken pieces in a baking dish. Pour the sweet chili sauce over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. For an extra crispy finish, broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the baked sweet chili chicken bites over cooked noodles or rice. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these Baked Sweet Chili Chicken Bites in various ways:
- As an Appetizer: Pair with creamy coleslaw or cucumber salad to balance the sweet and spicy flavors.
- As a Main Dish: Serve with steamed jasmine rice or light barley to soak up the delicious sauce.
- With Vegetables: Add a colorful side of stir-fried vegetables for a healthy and vibrant meal.
Tips and Variations
- Add Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers or snap peas into the baking dish for added nutrition and crunch.
- Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of red pepper flakes and Sriracha to control the heat level.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is not only delicious but also:
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy: A baked alternative to fried chicken bites.
- Versatile: Great for appetizers or main courses.
With these Baked Sweet Chili Chicken Bites, you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe is a must-try.
