Creamy Sweet Chili Chicken: A Flavorful Twist on Comfort Food

Name: Creamy Sweet Chili Chicken: A Flavorful Twist on Comfort Food
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon garlic, minced; 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional for extra tang); 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness); 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish); 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Author: rodrigo Stone

Published: August 27, 2025

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When you want to indulge in a dish that’s both sweet and savory, Creamy Sweet Chili Chicken is the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings. The creamy sauce, made from a combination of sweet chili sauce, cream, and a few simple ingredients, coats the tender chicken breasts in an irresistible glaze. The result is a dish that’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor.

This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: the mild heat of sweet chili sauce with the velvety texture of a creamy sauce. It’s the ideal weeknight dinner when you’re in the mood for something simple but packed with flavor. Serve it with rice, veggies, or mashed potatoes, and you’ve got yourself a full meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe is quick, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Sweet and Savory: The combination of sweet chili sauce and cream creates a perfect balance of flavors that’s both comforting and delicious.
Versatile: Serve it with a side of rice, pasta, or even fresh greens. The creamy sauce pairs well with nearly anything.
Simple Ingredients: With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes like it’s from a restaurant.

Ready to dive into the recipe? Here’s how you can make this delightful dish in your own kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (optional but adds great flavor)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)

For the Sweet Chili Cream Sauce:

1/2 cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free version)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (adds a tangy balance)
1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for depth of flavor)
1 tablespoon honey (for added sweetness and balance)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken the sauce)
1/4 cup water (if using cornstarch, to make a slurry)

For Garnish:

Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Sliced green onions (optional)
Red chili flakes (optional, for extra spice)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the Chicken: Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If needed, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and set them aside to rest. This will help keep the chicken juicy.

Step 2: Make the Sweet Chili Cream Sauce

Sauté Garlic and Ginger: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add a little more oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add Sweet Chili Sauce and Cream: Pour in the sweet chili sauce and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the rice vinegar, sesame oil (if using), and honey, stirring to mix well.
Thicken the Sauce (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in 1/4 cup of water to make a slurry. Add it to the simmering sauce, and cook for 2-3 more minutes until the sauce thickens.
Adjust the Flavor: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more honey for sweetness or vinegar for tanginess depending on your preference.

Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Return the Chicken to the Pan: Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top to coat the chicken.
Simmer Together: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 3-4 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavor and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and red chili flakes for extra flavor and color.
Serve: Serve the creamy sweet chili chicken with your favorite sides, such as steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or mashed potatoes.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Sweet Chili Chicken

1. Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor

If you prefer more flavor and juiciness, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts or thighs. The bones add richness to the sauce as they cook.

2. Customize the Heat Level

Adjust the heat level by adding more or less sweet chili sauce. For extra spice, you can include a sliced red chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce.

3. Make It Dairy-Free

To make this dish dairy-free, swap the heavy cream with coconut cream. It will still provide a rich, creamy texture, and the coconut flavor complements the sweetness of the chili sauce.

4. Add Vegetables

For a complete meal, feel free to add some vegetables to the skillet when making the sauce. Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach work wonderfully and add a pop of color and nutrition.

5. Serve with Sides

Pair this dish with a side of jasmine rice, basmati rice, or even a side salad. The creamy sauce is perfect for dipping or drizzling over your sides.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make-Ahead:

You can prepare the sweet chili cream sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove before serving, and add the chicken at the last minute to keep it fresh.

Storing Leftovers:

Leftover Creamy Sweet Chili Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little water or broth to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick.

Freezing:

You can freeze the cooked chicken with the sauce for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm on the stovetop until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great choice! They’re more flavorful and tender, and they work really well in this creamy sauce.

Can I use a store-bought sweet chili sauce?

Absolutely! While homemade sweet chili sauce is great, store-bought versions work just as well and save you time.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, you can add sliced fresh chilies, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or more chili flakes to increase the heat. Adjust according to your tolerance.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sweet Chili Chicken

This dish is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers deep, rich flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or planning a special meal, Creamy Sweet Chili Chicken will never disappoint. The combination of the tender chicken, the luscious sauce, and the perfect balance of heat and sweetness creates a mouthwatering meal every time.