Ultimate Sweet Chili Chicken Rice for Flavorful Dinner

Name: Ultimate Sweet Chili Chicken Rice for Flavorful Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; ½ cup sweet chili sauce; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp garlic, minced; 1 tsp ginger, minced; 1 cup jasmine rice; 1½ cups water; Pinch of salt; 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or red); 1 large carrot, julienned; 2 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp soy sauce; 1 tsp honey; 1 tbsp sesame seeds; 1 cucumber, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp sugar; ½ tsp salt

by basmer

26 de November de 2025

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Sweet Chili Chicken Rice bowls deliver an explosion of Asian-inspired flavors in every colorful, textured bite. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. The savory chicken thighs paired with sweet chili sauce create the perfect harmony of sweet and spicy, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a meal prep option. With a medley of fresh vegetables, jasmine rice, and a quick-pickled cucumber topping, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. Let’s dive into how to make this fantastic dish!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Chili Chicken Rice

This Sweet Chili Chicken Rice is not only easy to prepare but incredibly satisfying. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Deliciously sweet and spicy flavor combination.
Quick cooking time – ready in about 50 minutes.
Versatile for meal prepping or family dinners.
Healthy option packed with protein and vegetables.
Can be made gluten-free easily.
Offers a great way to use leftover chicken.
It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings.
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or grains.

Ingredients for Sweet Chili Chicken Rice

Gather these items:

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
½ cup sweet chili sauce
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger, minced
1 cup jasmine rice
1½ cups water
Pinch of salt
2 cups shredded cabbage (green or red)
1 large carrot, julienned
2 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp honey
1 tbsp sesame seeds
1 cucumber, thinly sliced
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
½ tsp salt

How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken Rice Step-by-Step

Step 1: Marinate the chicken by combining sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Add chicken thighs, coat thoroughly, and let sit for at least 15 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine with 1½ cups water and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until tender. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Step 3: Prepare the quick-pickled cucumbers by mixing thinly sliced cucumber with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl. Press them gently with the back of a spoon to help them release moisture and absorb the pickling liquid faster. Set aside for at least 10 minutes.
Step 4: Make the sesame slaw by whisking together sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey in a large bowl. Add shredded cabbage, julienned carrot, and sesame seeds, then toss until everything is well coated. The slaw improves if it sits for 5-10 minutes while you cook the chicken.
Step 5: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve the liquid) and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until caramelized and cooked through to 165°F. Transfer to a cutting board.
Step 6: Pour the reserved marinade into the same skillet and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Let it bubble for 2-3 minutes until it reduces to a thick, glossy sauce.
Step 7: Slice the chicken thighs into strips and return to the skillet, tossing to coat in the reduced sauce.
Step 8: Assemble the bowls by dividing rice among serving dishes, topping with glazed chicken, sesame slaw, and pickled cucumbers. Drizzle with any remaining sauce from the pan and sprinkle with additional sesame seeds for extra crunch.

Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Chili Chicken Rice

Keep these in mind:

For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken for better caramelization.
Use fresh vegetables for added crunch and flavor.
Feel free to substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if desired.
Don’t skip the quick-pickled cucumbers; they add a refreshing contrast!

Best Ways to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken Rice

This delicious dish can be served in various ways:

As a Sweet Chili Chicken Rice Bowl with all toppings neatly arranged.
Pair with a side salad for a light meal.
Serve alongside steamed vegetables for a healthy option.

How to Store and Reheat Sweet Chili Chicken Rice

To store, place any leftover Sweet Chili Chicken Rice in an airtight container in the fridge. This dish is perfect for meal prep; it stays fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave until heated through. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Chili Chicken Rice

What’s the secret to perfect Sweet Chili Chicken Rice?

The secret lies in marinating the chicken long enough to absorb the flavors of the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and spices. This ensures a deliciously juicy chicken that pairs perfectly with the rice!

Can I make Sweet Chili Chicken Rice ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and rice in advance. Store them separately and assemble the bowls just before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sweet Chili Chicken Rice?

Avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking the chicken to ensure even cooking and proper caramelization. Also, don’t skip the resting period after cooking the rice for a fluffier texture.

Variations of Sweet Chili Chicken Rice You Can Try

There are many ways to customize this dish:

Add more vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for a colorful twist.
Try using quinoa instead of jasmine rice for a healthier grain option.
For a spicy kick, add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
Make it vegetarian by substituting chicken with tofu or tempeh.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Korean BBQ Meatballs for a flavorful twist. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, don’t miss our Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze.

For more information on the health benefits of chicken, you can visit Healthline.