If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful dinner that’s both quick and packed with texture, the Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe is a total game changer. This dish perfectly balances the crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts with tender chicken tossed in a luscious sweet chili sauce. It’s a delightful mix of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet that’ll have your taste buds singing and your kitchen smelling irresistible in under 30 minutes. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become one of your go-to meals when you want something comforting but exciting all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the right ingredients together for this recipe is a breeze, but every single one plays an important role in creating those bold flavors and satisfying textures. From crisp Brussels sprouts to aromatic spices and the magic of sweet chili sauce, these essentials come together to form an unforgettable dish.
- 12 oz Brussels sprouts, stemmed and halved: The star veggie that crisps up beautifully in the air fryer for that irresistible bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the Brussels sprouts brown perfectly while adding a smooth richness.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors just right without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a subtle kick that complements the sweetness.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced: Tender, lean protein that soaks up the spices and sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon chili oil: Delivers warmth and a slightly smoky depth to the chicken.
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger: Adds a fragrant, zesty note that lifts the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings savory undertones that melt into every bite.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Ramps up the heat, balancing the sauce’s sweetness perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Keeps the chicken seasoned just right for maximum flavor.
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, plus more for serving: The star sauce that ties it all together with its perfect blend of sweet and spicy.
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Start by trimming off the tough ends of your Brussels sprouts, then slice them in half. This ensures they cook evenly and develop those crispy, caramelized edges we love. Taking a few seconds here sets the stage for that perfect crunch later.
Step 2: Season the Brussels Sprouts
Toss your halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. This simple seasoning enhances their natural earthiness and helps create a golden, flavorful crust when air fried.
Step 3: Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts
Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Pop the Brussels sprouts in the basket and let them air fry for 10 minutes. You’ll notice how they transform—going crisp on the outside while staying tender inside.
Step 4: Season the Chicken
While the Brussels sprouts are crisping up, coat your diced chicken breast with chili oil to infuse a spicy undertone. Next, sprinkle on the ground ginger, garlic powder, chili powder, and kosher salt, mixing everything thoroughly to ensure each piece bursts with flavor.
Step 5: Cook Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Together
After your initial Brussels sprout cooking, add the seasoned chicken pieces right into the air fryer basket with the sprouts. Let them cook together for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring halfway through. This step allows their flavors to mingle, and the chicken to reach a safe, juicy temperature between 160 and 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 6: Add Sweet Chili Sauce
Drizzle in the sweet chili sauce and give everything a good stir to coat evenly. Pop the basket back in the air fryer or under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes. This quick step caramelizes the sauce, deepening its flavor and lending a glossy, irresistible finish to your dish.
Step 7: Serve Up and Enjoy
Once out of the air fryer, your dish is ready to shine at the table! Serve it hot, allowing the sticky sauce and crispy textures to take center stage. Grab a fork and get ready for a delightful bite.
How to Serve Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a few fresh lime wedges brings a beautiful contrast and extra flavor dimension. The nuttiness of sesame seeds pairs perfectly with the sweet chili glaze, while a squeeze of lime adds that zesty brightness that makes every bite sing.
Side Dishes
This recipe stands wonderfully on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of fluffy jasmine rice or even some lightly buttered noodles. Rice will soak up the sauce beautifully, making every mouthful satisfyingly saucy. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice to keep things light and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this vibrant dish in colorful bowls or square plates for an appealing presentation. Adding a few sprigs of fresh cilantro or scallions on top adds a pop of color and an herbaceous finish. You could even turn it into a vibrant lettuce wrap, scooping the chicken and Brussels sprouts into crisp butter lettuce leaves for a fun handheld twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from your Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that Brussels sprouts may lose some crispness but will remain flavorful and delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but make sure it has cooled completely first. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the air fryer or oven to maintain that lovely crispness. Set the air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and warm for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring halfway through. Avoid the microwave when possible to keep the Brussels sprouts from turning soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts work best for crispness, you can use frozen. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry really well before air frying to reduce excess moisture and ensure they crisp up nicely.
Is chicken breast the only cut of chicken that works?
Chicken breast is ideal for this recipe due to its lean and tender qualities. However, diced chicken thighs could add juiciness and a richer flavor if you prefer them—just adjust cooking time as needed.
How spicy is the Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe?
The dish has a gentle kick thanks to chili oil and chili powder balanced by the sweetness of the sauce. If you want more heat, add extra chili powder or drizzle more chili oil before serving.
Can I substitute the sweet chili sauce?
You can try a mix of honey, garlic, and a splash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce if you don’t have sweet chili sauce on hand. That said, the unique sweet and spicy combo of traditional sweet chili sauce really makes this recipe sing.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I make this in the oven?
Definitely! Roast the Brussels sprouts and chicken on a baking sheet at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through. Finish under the broiler briefly to caramelize the sauce just like the air fryer step.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about the harmonious flavors and textures in the Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe. It’s a quick, fuss-free meal that feels a little special, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining friends. Dive in and enjoy this deliciously bold, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to brighten your dinner table and keep you coming back for more.
Print
Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American Fusion
Description
This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts recipe is a quick and flavorful meal that combines tender, spiced chicken with crispy Brussels sprouts. Tossed in a sweet and tangy chili sauce, this dish is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner with minimal prep and cook time using the air fryer.
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts
- 12 oz Brussels sprouts, stemmed and halved
- 1 tablespoon (16g) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1 tablespoon (16g) chili oil
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Sauce
- ¼ cup (60g) sweet chili sauce, plus more for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Trim the stems off the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture in the air fryer.
- Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings: In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat to ensure the Brussels sprouts begin crisping immediately.
- Air Fry 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.
- Season the Chicken: While the Brussels sprouts cook, coat the diced chicken breast with chili oil, then sprinkle and mix in ground ginger, garlic powder, chili powder, and kosher salt to combine all the spices thoroughly.
- Add Chicken to Air Fryer: After the initial 10 minutes of Brussels sprout cooking, add the seasoned chicken pieces directly into the air fryer basket with the Brussels sprouts, stirring gently to mix.
- Cook Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Together: Continue air frying at 400°F for another 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F to 165°F and the Brussels sprouts are tender and crisp.
- Stir in Sweet Chili Sauce: Remove the basket and drizzle the ¼ cup sweet chili sauce evenly over the chicken and Brussels sprouts, stirring gently to coat all pieces.
- Caramelize the Sauce: Return the basket to the air fryer or switch to broil mode and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and caramelized, enhancing the flavors.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the sweet chili chicken and Brussels sprouts hot, accompanied by rice if desired, with optional garnishes such as sesame seeds, lime wedges, and extra sweet chili sauce on the side for more flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a hotter chili oil.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer for safety.
- For crispier Brussels sprouts, do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
