If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and savory flavors with a satisfying crunch, this Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe is an absolute must-try. Juicy chicken thighs get a flavorful boost from a simple soy and garlic marinade while tender Brussels sprouts crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. The final toss in sweet chili sauce adds that irresistible glaze that will have you reaching for seconds. It is a fast, wholesome, and vibrant meal ideal for busy weeknights or whenever you want a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on straightforward, fresh ingredients that ensure every bite is packed with flavor and texture. Each element is carefully selected to enhance the dish’s balance between savory meatiness and bright, crispy greens.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and juicy tenderness.
- Soy sauce: Adds depth and salty umami that is the backbone of the marinade.
- Garlic powder: Provides aromatic warmth without overpowering the dish.
- Black pepper: A subtle kick that complements the sweet chili sauce perfectly.
- Olive oil: Helps to crisp the Brussels sprouts beautifully in the air fryer.
- Brussels sprouts: Trimmed and halved for even cooking and delightful crunch.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables and chicken.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who want an extra touch of heat.
- Sweet chili sauce: The star ingredient that ties the dish together with its sweet and tangy glaze.
- Chopped green onions and sesame seeds (optional): Perfect for garnish and adding a fresh, nutty finish.
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by tossing the boneless chicken thighs with soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Letting this simple marinade sit for just 10 minutes allows the chicken to soak in those umami-rich flavors, setting the foundation for a juicy, tasty main.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
While the chicken is marinating, trim and halve your Brussels sprouts, then toss them with olive oil and salt. This little step ensures they get perfectly crisp without losing any of their natural, slightly nutty flavor during air frying.
Step 3: Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts
Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3 minutes. Then add the Brussels sprouts to the basket and cook for 10 minutes, giving the basket a good shake halfway through. This first round of cooking helps them start crisping up before the chicken joins the party.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Finish Cooking
Once the Brussels sprouts have a head start, add the marinated chicken pieces directly into the air fryer basket with the sprouts. Continue cooking for another 10 to 12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the Brussels sprouts have reached that golden, crispy perfection we all love.
Step 5: Toss with Sweet Chili Sauce
Transfer the cooked chicken and sprouts to a large mixing bowl and toss everything with the sweet chili sauce. This coating provides a glossy, sticky layer of flavor that is both sweet and mildly spicy, beautifully uniting the entire dish.
How to Serve Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the look and flavor, sprinkle chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top just before serving. These garnishes add a fresh pop of color and an irresistible crunch that complements the tender chicken and sprouts.
Side Dishes
This dish stands well on its own, but pairing it with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa creates a hearty, satisfying meal that mops up every bit of the sweet chili sauce wonderfully. For lighter options, a crisp cucumber salad or simple edamame beans add refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties or family meals, serve this recipe over a bed of noodles or cauliflower rice and drizzle extra sweet chili sauce on top. You can also serve in individual bowls layered with crunchy slaw or shredded carrots for an added colorful, textural touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld together even more after resting, making for delicious next-day meals or quick reheats.
Freezing
This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe can be frozen, although the Brussels sprouts may lose some crispness. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the air fryer or oven at a low temperature to help restore some of the original crispiness without drying out the chicken. Alternatively, a quick stir-fry in a hot pan can revive the dish beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work fine, but keep an eye on cooking time since they can dry out faster. Adjust accordingly to keep them tender and juicy.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least 10 minutes allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the soy sauce and spices, resulting in a more flavorful dish. If short on time, tossing right before cooking still works but won’t be as intense.
What can I substitute for sweet chili sauce?
If you don’t have sweet chili sauce on hand, a mix of honey, chili flakes, and a splash of rice vinegar can mimic the sweet and tangy profile nicely.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots add beautiful color and extra crunch. Just adjust cooking times to ensure everything cooks evenly in the air fryer.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce, this dish is safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Check labels to be sure.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with a balance of textures and tastes that really satisfy. I hope you give it a try and make it one of your favorite go-to dinners because it’s truly that good.
Print
Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts recipe is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner that’s both healthy and satisfying. Tender chicken thighs are marinated in a savory soy and garlic mixture, then air fried to perfection alongside crispy Brussels sprouts. Tossed in a tangy sweet chili sauce and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, this Asian-inspired dish offers a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors with minimal prep and cook time.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Sauce and Garnish
- 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken thigh pieces with soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated and set aside to marinate for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: In a separate bowl, toss the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil and salt until well coated. Optionally, add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes to ensure even cooking and optimal crisping of the vegetables and chicken.
- Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts: Place the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning and crispiness.
- Add the Chicken: After 10 minutes, add the marinated chicken pieces to the basket alongside the Brussels sprouts. Continue air frying for an additional 10 to 12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the Brussels sprouts are golden and crispy.
- Toss with Sweet Chili Sauce: Transfer the cooked chicken and Brussels sprouts to a large bowl. Pour the sweet chili sauce over the top and toss gently until all pieces are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired, and serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by choosing a milder or spicier sweet chili sauce according to your preference.
- Chicken breasts can be substituted for thighs; just be sure to monitor cooking time closely to avoid drying out the meat.
- Add colorful vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and nutritional value.
