Oh my goodness, have I got a treat for you! Sweet chili chicken and Brussels sprouts is one of those dishes that makes my heart sing. The first time I made it, I was blown away by how the tender chicken melds perfectly with those crispy Brussels sprouts, all coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that just dances on your taste buds. Seriously, it’s like a flavor explosion! It’s so easy to whip up on a busy weeknight, but fancy enough to impress your friends at a dinner party. Plus, it’s gluten-free, which is always a win in my book! Trust me, once you try this combo, it’ll become a regular in your kitchen too. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get this deliciousness going!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare *Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts*
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial because you want everything to cook evenly and get that lovely caramelization on the Brussels sprouts. While that’s warming up, grab a large bowl and toss in your bite-sized chicken pieces. Now, add the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Here’s where the magic happens—mix everything together until the chicken is well-coated in that vibrant sauce. It’s like a flavor hug for your chicken!
Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring those Brussels sprouts into the party! Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the bowl with your chicken mixture. Don’t be shy—use your hands or a spatula to toss everything together until the sprouts are coated in that delicious sauce too. You want every piece of chicken and every sprout to have a bit of that sweet and spicy goodness, so really give it a good mix. It’s all about that even coating!
Bake the Dish
Next, grab a baking sheet and spread the chicken and Brussels sprouts mixture out evenly. Make sure it’s in a single layer for the best roasting. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top—this adds a nice richness and helps everything crisp up beautifully. Now, pop that baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and the Brussels sprouts are tender and just starting to get that lovely golden color. If you want an extra crunch, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes, but keep an eye on it—nobody wants burnt Brussels! Serve hot and enjoy the symphony of flavors!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible flavor balance: The sweet chili sauce perfectly complements the savory chicken and earthy Brussels sprouts, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
- Quick and easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Gluten-free goodness: This dish caters to those with dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste or texture.
- Healthy and satisfying: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the Brussels sprouts, it’s a nutritious meal that’ll keep you feeling full.
- One-pan wonder: Everything cooks together on a single baking sheet, making for easy clean-up—who doesn’t love that?
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or spice level of the chili sauce to suit your taste, making it versatile for everyone.
- Impress your guests: Serve this up at your next gathering, and watch as your friends rave about how delicious it is!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your sweet chili chicken and Brussels sprouts turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips that I’ve gathered through my kitchen adventures:
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh Brussels sprouts will really elevate the dish. Look for ones that are bright green and firm. If you can, avoid any that look wilted or yellowing.
- Adjust the Sauce: If you like it spicier, feel free to add a little more sweet chili sauce or even a splash of sriracha for an extra kick. On the flip side, if you prefer it milder, just dial back the sauce a bit. It’s all about what tastes good to you!
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Make sure the chicken and Brussels sprouts are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. This helps them roast rather than steam, giving you that beautiful caramelization and crunch.
- Flip Halfway: About halfway through baking, give everything a gentle stir or flip. This ensures even cooking and browning on all sides, making every bite equally delicious.
- Check for Doneness: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer if you have one—it’s a game changer! And those Brussels sprouts should be tender with a hint of crispiness.
- Let It Rest: After pulling the dish from the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together even more and keeps things juicy!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to a fantastic meal that everyone will be raving about. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Before you dig in, let’s talk nutrition! Keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. But here’s a general breakdown for a serving of sweet chili chicken and Brussels sprouts, so you can feel good about what you’re eating:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
With a solid amount of protein and fiber, this dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also keeps you feeling full and energized. Enjoy every bite knowing it’s as good for you as it is delicious!
FAQ Section
Can I use other vegetables besides Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! While Brussels sprouts are a star in this dish, you can easily swap them out for other veggies like broccoli, green beans, or even bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you choose softer vegetables.
What if I don’t have sweet chili sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing together some honey or maple syrup with a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes. It’ll give you that sweet and spicy kick we love without sweet chili sauce!
How should I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which I doubt, because it’s so good!), let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for about 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for the best results.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Sweet chili chicken and Brussels sprouts are perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch, portion it out, and have delicious lunches or dinners ready to go for the week. Just remember to store the sauce separately if you want to keep things fresh!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your sweet chili chicken and Brussels sprouts ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside this flavor-packed dish! I love to keep things simple yet delicious so that the main event really shines. Here are a few of my favorite accompaniments:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light, fluffy texture of jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up that sweet chili sauce. It’s a classic pairing that complements the dish beautifully!
- Quinoa: If you’re looking for something a bit different, try serving it with quinoa. It adds a nice nutty flavor and extra protein, plus it’s super nutritious!
- Simple Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
- Garlic Noodles: These are a great option if you’re craving something a bit heartier. Toss some noodles with garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of sesame oil for a delightful side!
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken and adds a lovely pop of color to your plate.
- Pickled Vegetables: A side of pickled veggies can add a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness, providing a delightful balance of flavors!
Feel free to mix and match these sides to create a meal that’s perfect for you. No matter what you choose, I promise it’ll be a hit! Enjoy your meal and the happy faces around the table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious sweet chili chicken and Brussels sprouts, and now you have some leftovers (if you’re lucky enough!). Let’s talk about how to store them properly so you can enjoy that incredible flavor again later!
First, let the dish cool down to room temperature. This is important because putting hot food straight into the fridge can raise the overall temperature and lead to food safety issues. Once it’s cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. Make sure to seal it tightly to keep that sweet and spicy goodness inside!
In the fridge, your leftovers will be happy for about 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It’s best to label the container with the date, so you know when you made it. Frozen sweet chili chicken and Brussels sprouts can last for up to 2 months.
Now, when you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, here’s how to reheat them to keep everything tasting fresh and delicious. If you’re reheating from the fridge, simply pop them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. You can also use the oven—just preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and spread the leftovers on a baking sheet, heating for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain that lovely crispiness of the Brussels sprouts!
If you’re reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw them overnight in the fridge first. Then follow the same reheating instructions above. Trust me, taking a little extra time to reheat properly makes all the difference in enjoying a fantastic meal again!
Happy storing and reheating, my friend! You’re going to love reliving those flavors all over again!
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Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts: 7 Flavorful Tips
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Sweet chili chicken and Brussels sprouts is a flavorful dish combining tender chicken with crispy Brussels sprouts, coated in a sweet and spicy sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the chicken, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add the Brussels sprouts to the bowl and toss everything together.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and Brussels sprouts are tender.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust the level of sweet chili sauce to your preference.
- For added crunch, broil for the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: sweet chili chicken, Brussels sprouts, easy chicken recipe