Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs are the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, creating a dish that’s both bold and irresistible. With crispy, caramelized skin and a sticky, flavorful glaze, these chicken thighs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort.
What makes this recipe truly stand out is the balance of flavors. The sweetness from honey and brown sugar complements the slight heat of the chili sauce, while garlic and soy sauce add a savory depth. The result? Juicy, tender chicken thighs coated in a glossy, finger-licking glaze. Plus, this dish is incredibly easy to make—all you need are a few simple ingredients and a hot oven or skillet to bring everything together.
Why You’ll Love This Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs
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Incredible Flavor – The perfect mix of sweet, spicy, and savory in every bite.
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Crispy Yet Juicy – The thighs stay tender on the inside while developing a caramelized, crispy exterior.
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Quick and Easy – Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and under an hour from start to finish.
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Versatile – Works great as a main dish with rice, veggies, or in wraps.
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Meal Prep Friendly – Stores and reheats well, making it ideal for make-ahead meals.
Preparation Time and Yield
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 40 minutes
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Total time: 50 minutes
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Yield: 4 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 410
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Carbohydrates: 35g
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Protein: 28g
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Fat: 18g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 22g
Ingredients for Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs
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6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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⅓ cup sweet chili sauce
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2 tablespoons honey
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon grated ginger
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
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1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
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2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Sear the Chicken for Crispy Skin
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for about 5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and sear the other side for another 2 minutes.
3. Make the Sweet Chili Glaze
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sweet chili sauce, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute until the sauce becomes glossy and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Bake the Chicken
Brush the seared chicken thighs generously with the sweet chili glaze. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, basting with more sauce halfway through.
5. Broil for Extra Caramelization
For a more caramelized finish, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
6. Rest and Garnish
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
Ingredient Background
Chicken thighs are the perfect protein choice for this dish because they remain juicy and flavorful even after cooking. Unlike chicken breasts, which can dry out easily, thighs have a higher fat content that keeps them tender. Bone-in, skin-on thighs are ideal for a crispy texture, but boneless thighs work well too if you prefer a quicker cooking time.
Sweet chili sauce is the star ingredient, providing a balance of sweetness and mild heat. This sauce, popular in Asian cuisine, is made from red chili peppers, vinegar, garlic, and sugar, creating a sticky glaze that clings beautifully to the chicken. If you prefer a homemade version, you can mix honey, garlic, chili flakes, and vinegar for a similar effect.
Soy sauce and rice vinegar add an umami depth to the glaze. Soy sauce enhances the savoriness, while rice vinegar provides a slight tanginess that balances the sweetness. Using low-sodium soy sauce helps control the saltiness, and for a gluten-free option, tamari or coconut aminos work as great substitutes.
Technique Tips for Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs
To achieve crispy skin, always pat the chicken thighs dry before seasoning. Excess moisture prevents proper browning, so using paper towels to remove any surface water ensures that the skin crisps up beautifully when seared.
For the best caramelization, sear the chicken in a hot pan before baking. This locks in juices and adds a golden-brown crust that enhances the overall flavor. If using boneless thighs, reduce the searing time slightly to avoid overcooking.
Basting the chicken with the glaze during baking creates a deeper flavor. By brushing on extra sauce halfway through cooking, you allow the chicken to absorb more of the sweet and spicy glaze, resulting in a richer, stickier coating. If you want an even thicker glaze, simmer the sauce for a few more minutes to concentrate the flavors before applying it to the chicken.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
For an elegant dinner, serve the chicken thighs over a bed of coconut rice with a side of steamed bok choy or roasted asparagus. The sweetness of the rice complements the spicy glaze, making it a balanced meal.
If you’re making this for a casual gathering, turn it into a finger-food dish by serving the glazed chicken thighs with lettuce wraps. The crisp, cool lettuce contrasts with the warm, sticky chicken, creating a fun, hands-on meal that’s perfect for parties.
For a fusion-style approach, shred the chicken and use it as a filling for tacos or rice bowls. Add sliced cucumbers, pickled carrots, and a drizzle of extra sauce for a fresh and vibrant dish. Garnishing with crushed peanuts or crispy fried shallots adds even more texture and flavor.
Freezing and Storing Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs
If storing leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave it in 30-second intervals until heated through.
For freezing, let the cooked chicken cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes to restore its crispy texture.
If preparing the chicken thighs in advance, marinate them in the sauce overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor. This helps infuse the chicken with the sweet and spicy glaze before cooking, making it even more flavorful.
Healthier Twist Ideas
To make a lighter version, use skinless chicken thighs or even chicken breasts. The dish will still be flavorful, but with less fat. Boneless thighs cook faster and absorb the sauce more quickly, making them a great alternative.
Instead of using store-bought sweet chili sauce, make a homemade version using honey, fresh chili flakes, minced garlic, and lime juice. This reduces added sugars and allows you to control the spice level.
For a lower-sodium option, replace soy sauce with coconut aminos or low-sodium tamari. Pairing the dish with a light cucumber salad or steamed vegetables instead of rice helps balance out the meal, keeping it healthy yet satisfying.
Serving Suggestions for Events
For a weeknight dinner, pair the chicken thighs with jasmine rice and stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots. The mild sweetness of the sauce pairs well with the natural crunch of the veggies, making for a complete and balanced meal.
At a barbecue or outdoor gathering, serve the chicken thighs straight from the grill with grilled pineapple and a side of coleslaw. The smoky char from the grill enhances the sweet chili glaze, creating a tropical-inspired dish that’s both flavorful and refreshing.
For a special dinner party, plate the chicken thighs on a large serving platter and garnish with extra sesame seeds, green onions, and a drizzle of sauce. Serve alongside roasted sweet potatoes or an Asian-inspired quinoa salad to impress your guests with a colorful and vibrant meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well and cook faster. Reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes.
2. What can I use instead of sweet chili sauce?
You can make a homemade version by mixing honey, chili flakes, vinegar, garlic, and a pinch of salt.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes, Sriracha, or chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauce for more heat.
4. Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Absolutely! Grill over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, basting with the sauce as it cooks.
5. What sides go best with this dish?
It pairs well with rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad for contrast.
6. How do I get a thicker glaze?
Let the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes before adding the cornstarch slurry to make it thicker.
7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight in the sauce for more flavor and bake it the next day.
8. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
9. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but they may dry out more easily. Reduce the baking time and check for doneness earlier.
10. How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for deeper flavor.
Conclusion
Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs are a mouthwatering combination of bold flavors, crispy skin, and a sticky, caramelized glaze that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a quick dinner, a backyard barbecue, or a dinner party, they’re guaranteed to impress.
What makes this dish so special is its versatility. You can serve it over rice, in wraps, or even as a topping for salads. Plus, it’s easy to customize the spice level and ingredients to suit your personal taste.
If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful chicken recipe that will become a family favorite, this Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs dish is the perfect choice. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a go-to meal in your kitchen!
Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ⅓ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for about 5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and sear the other side for another 2 minutes.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sweet chili sauce, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute until the sauce becomes glossy and coats the back of a spoon.
Brush the seared chicken thighs generously with the sweet chili glaze. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, basting with more sauce halfway through.
For a more caramelized finish, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 22g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
Welcome to Cozy dishes! I’m Louise, and this is your warm, welcoming kitchen corner filled with feel-good recipes that bring comfort to everyday moments. Whether you’re making a simple dinner or baking something sweet, you’ll find cozy, approachable dishes made with heart.
