Quick and Simple Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs Recipe

If there’s one dish that checks all the boxes—sweet, spicy, savory, sticky, and satisfying—it’s Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs. Bursting with flavor and requiring minimal prep, this easy chicken recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious but don’t have the energy for a complicated meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and easy – Ready in under 35 minutes

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• One pan – Minimal cleanup

• Balanced flavor – Sweet, tangy, and spicy

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• Juicy chicken thighs – Rich, flavorful, and hard to overcook

• Pan-sear or oven-bake – Flexible cooking methods

This dish is perfect served over jasmine rice, noodles, or even shredded into lettuce wraps. And the sticky glaze? It’s so good you’ll want to drizzle it on everything.

Ingredient Notes

• Chicken thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are quick to cook and stay juicy. You can use bone-in thighs or chicken breasts, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

• Sweet chili sauce: Found in the Asian aisle of most grocery stores; it’s sweet with a gentle heat. You can also make your own.

• Soy sauce: Adds umami and salt. Tamari or coconut aminos can be substituted for gluten-free versions.

• Honey: Balances acidity and enhances the sticky texture.

How to Make Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

• Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and ground ginger.

• Let them rest at room temperature while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Sweet chili sauce

• Soy sauce

• Rice vinegar or lime juice

• Honey

• Minced garlic

• Sesame oil (if using)

• Red pepper flakes (if you like heat)

Taste and adjust: Want it sweeter? Add more honey. Need more tang? Add another splash of lime juice.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Option A: Pan-Seared (Quickest method)

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Once hot, add the chicken thighs smooth-side down.

3. Sear for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

4. Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour the sauce into the pan, turning the chicken to coat.

5. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, spooning the sauce over the chicken as it thickens and becomes sticky.

Option B: Oven-Baked (Less hands-on)

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Place seasoned chicken thighs in a lightly greased baking dish.

3. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until cooked through.

4. In the last 10 minutes of baking, brush or pour the sauce over the chicken and return to the oven.

5. Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a caramelized finish.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (If Needed)

If your sauce is too thin, stir 1 teaspoon cornstarch into 2 tablespoons cold water and add it to the pan. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until thickened and glossy.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with:

• Chopped scallions

• Toasted sesame seeds

• Sliced fresh chili or lime wedges

Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or vegetables.

Serving Ideas

Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs pair beautifully with:

Grains & Noodles

• Jasmine rice

• Coconut rice

• Brown rice or quinoa

• Rice noodles or soba noodles

Vegetables

• Stir-fried bok choy

• Steamed broccoli

• Roasted carrots

• Cucumber salad

Creative Serving Options

• Chop the chicken and stuff it in lettuce cups

• Slice over a rice bowl with pickled veggies

• Use it in wraps or flatbreads for a fusion-style meal

Flavor Variations

This base recipe is super adaptable. Try these ideas:

1. Thai-Inspired Version

• Add a splash of fish sauce and fresh cilantro

• Use Thai basil and lime zest for added fragrance

2. Orange Chili Chicken

• Swap vinegar for orange juice

• Add orange zest for brightness

3. Korean-Inspired Gochujang Glaze

• Mix gochujang with honey and soy instead of sweet chili sauce

• Add grated ginger for extra kick

4. Pineapple Sweet Chili Chicken

• Add pineapple chunks to the sauce for a tropical twist

• Reduce sauce a little longer to thicken with fruit juice

Meal Prep & Storage

Refrigerator:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Freezer:

• Freeze fully cooked chicken in sauce for up to 2 months.

• Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet.

Meal Prep Tip:

• Cook a large batch and portion with rice and veggies for easy lunches all week.

Tips for Perfect Sticky Chicken

• Pat the chicken dry to get a good sear.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed.

• Use a nonstick or cast iron skillet for even cooking and easy cleanup.

• Simmer sauce gently to prevent burning the sugars.

• Deglaze the pan with a splash of water or vinegar if the sauce sticks.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! Chicken breasts will work, but be careful not to overcook them. Slice them thin for faster cooking, or pound them to even thickness.

Can I make it spicier?

Definitely. Add sriracha, more red pepper flakes, or a chopped Thai chili to the sauce.

Is sweet chili sauce very spicy?

Not really. It’s more sweet than spicy, making it great for families. You can always add extra heat if desired.

What brand of sweet chili sauce is best?

Mae Ploy is a popular option for authentic Thai flavor, but any grocery-store brand works well for this recipe.

Can I grill the chicken?

Absolutely! Grill the seasoned thighs, then brush the sauce on during the final few minutes. Great for summer barbecues.

Conclusion

Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs are the perfect mix of simplicity and flavor—ideal for weeknights, meal prep, or casual entertaining. The sticky-sweet glaze, combined with juicy chicken and fresh garnishes, makes every bite feel indulgent without being heavy or complicated.