Hey y'all! Looking to spice up your meal prep routine with something that's incredibly tasty, easy to whip up, and super versatile? This Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe for Meal Prep is about to become your new go-to! With juicy chicken, a sticky-sweet and mildly spicy sauce, and all the meal prep magic you need, it's perfect for busy weeknights, healthy lunches, or anytime you crave bold flavors. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe for Meal Prep
- It's quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes!
- Packed with vibrant sweet and spicy flavors to brighten up your week.
- Perfect for healthy meal prep and busy lifestyles.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or protein swaps.
- Makes delicious leftovers that taste even better the next day.
Ingredients for Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe for Meal Prep
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup sweet chili sauce (What is sweet chili sauce?)
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe for Meal Prep
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken to a plate.
Step 3: Make the Sweet Chili Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Bring to a gentle simmer and stir.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Mix cornstarch with water, then pour into the simmering sauce. Stir well and simmer for 1-2 minutes until thickened and glossy.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing to coat in the sticky sweet chili sauce. Cook for 2-3 more minutes to heat through and meld flavors. Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes for a Perfect Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe for Meal Prep
- Cut chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking and juiciness.
- Not a fan of too much heat? Use a mild sweet chili sauce or add extra honey.
- For more info on safe chicken cooking temperatures, check out FoodSafety.gov.
Variations on Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe for Meal Prep
- Stir-Fry Veggie Add-In: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra crunch and color.
- Baked Version: Arrange chicken in a baking dish, pour sauce over, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Spicy Peanut Twist: Add 2 tablespoons peanut butter to the sauce for a creamy, nutty kick.
Required Equipment for Sweet Chili Chicken Meal Prep
- Large nonstick skillet or wok
- Sharp kitchen knife & cutting board
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Small mixing bowl (for cornstarch slurry)
- Meal prep containers
Storage Instructions for Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe for Meal Prep
Let the chicken cool completely, then portion into airtight meal prep containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot throughout.
Serving Recommendations for Sweet Chili Chicken Meal Prep
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a hearty, balanced meal.
- Pair with roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli, bok choy, or carrots.
- Try it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe for Meal Prep
- Marinate chicken in a bit of the sauce for 30 minutes for extra flavor (marinating tips).
- Use thigh meat for juicier, more flavorful results.
- Double the sauce if you love it sticky and saucy!
FAQ: Sweet Chili Chicken Recipe for Meal Prep
- Can I use frozen chicken?
- Yes, just be sure to thaw completely before cooking for best results.
- Is sweet chili chicken healthy?
- This meal is packed with lean protein and can be made even healthier by using low-sugar sweet chili sauce and serving with veggies. For more on the nutrition of chicken, check out this guide.
- Can I make this dish ahead?
- Absolutely—it’s perfect for meal prep! Pre-cook and portion into containers for grab-and-go lunches all week.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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1In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat.
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2Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
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3Add the sweet chili sauce to the skillet and toss to coat the chicken evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
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4Meanwhile, steam the broccoli florets and red bell pepper slices until just tender, about 4-5 minutes.
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5Divide the cooked rice among 4 meal prep containers. Top each with sweet chili chicken and steamed vegetables. Garnish with sliced green onions.
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6Allow to cool before sealing and refrigerating. Reheat before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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