Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
If you’re searching for a dish that fuses vibrant flavor, irresistible crispiness, and easy weeknight convenience, Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts will absolutely steal the show at your table. Juicy, bite-sized chicken and caramelized Brussels sprouts get that golden air-fried finish, then they’re tossed in a sticky, sweet, tangy glaze that clings to every corner. This is the kind of recipe you’ll make “just to try it” and then find yourself craving again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the building blocks of flavor for Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts couldn’t be simpler, but every ingredient really shines. Each element brings just the right pop of color, punch of seasoning, and perfect balance between savory and vibrant.
- Chicken Thighs: Boneless and skinless pieces stay juicy and soak up all the flavor—cut them into bite-sized chunks for faster, more even cooking.
- Brussels Sprouts: Halved Brussels get crispy edges and a sweet-and-nutty flavor after air frying—choose fresh, firm sprouts for best results.
- Olive Oil: Just enough to help everything crisp up without becoming greasy.
- Salt: Brings out the natural flavors in both chicken and veggies.
- Black Pepper: Gives a mellow kick and balances the sweetness of the sauce.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: The star ingredient for a glossy, sticky, and perfectly sweet glaze with mild heat.
- Soy Sauce: Adds a punch of umami and a salty depth to the sauce.
- Rice Vinegar: Brightens everything up with a subtle tang.
- Fresh Ginger: Adds warmth and zing—just a teaspoon makes a big difference.
- Garlic: Minced for a savory edge that’s absolutely essential in the sauce.
- Sesame Seeds: A classic garnish that brings tiny pops of nutty crunch.
- Green Onions: Sliced for a fresh bite and cheerful color to finish the dish.
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Brussels Sprouts
Start by cutting your chicken thighs into even, bite-sized pieces, and halve your Brussels sprouts for maximum crispness. Toss them together in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, and black pepper—make sure everything gets a nice, even coating, as this is the foundation of flavor and helps both the chicken and sprouts roast up beautifully in the air fryer.
Step 2: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) so the food goes into a hot basket—that’s the key to instant crispiness. Lay the chicken and Brussels sprouts in a single layer, working in batches if your fryer’s not huge. Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, giving the basket a good shake halfway through, until everything is golden, the chicken is fully cooked, and the sprouts are browned with irresistible crisp edges.
Step 3: Simmer the Sweet Chili Sauce
While your air fryer works its magic, whip up the easiest, most fragrant sauce on the stovetop. Combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic in a small saucepan. Warm gently over medium heat for about two minutes—to let all those flavors meld and become glossy and aromatic. Don’t let it boil—just a gentle heat to blend everything together.
Step 4: Toss Everything Together
Once the chicken and Brussels sprouts are cooked and crispy, transfer them to a big mixing bowl. Pour the warm sweet chili sauce over the top and toss everything thoroughly—so every piece is deliciously coated and shiny. This is the secret that turns a quick weeknight dinner into something you’ll want to show off.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts with a sprinkling of sesame seeds and bright green onion slices. These garnishes aren’t just pretty—they add wonderful flavor and crunch to every bite.
How to Serve Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts
Garnishes
A generous shower of sesame seeds and a flurry of sliced green onions are a must for Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts. You can also add a little extra chopped cilantro or a drizzle of sriracha if you’re feeling bold. The finishing touches lift the whole flavor profile and give it a beautiful, restaurant-worthy look.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs effortlessly with fluffy steamed jasmine rice, nutty brown rice, or even a tangle of soba noodles. If you want to amp up the veggie quotient, quickly sautéed snap peas or a bright cucumber salad will keep things light and fresh. Don’t forget—this chicken and Brussels recipe is bold enough to stand on its own too!
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts in shallow bowls over a bed of greens for a hearty salad, or wrap it up in lettuce leaves for stunning Asian-inspired lettuce cups. Pile it up inside a grain bowl or top it with a fried egg for brunch. The sweet chili glaze adapts to almost any fun presentation you can dream up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (good luck with that!), pop them into an airtight container and refrigerate. Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts stay delicious for up to three days, making them perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches. The sweet chili flavor melds even more overnight.
Freezing
Freezing is a breeze: simply transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label and freeze for up to two months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating for best texture—the sauce helps keep the chicken tender and the Brussels sprouts surprisingly tasty.
Reheating
To revive their crispness, pop leftovers back in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes, or reheat gently in the microwave if you’re short on time. Just keep an eye out to avoid overcooking; a splash of extra sweet chili sauce never hurts if things look dry.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely, though chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness. If you use chicken breast, cut it into uniform pieces and watch closely so it doesn’t overcook in the air fryer. Either option works beautifully with the sweet chili glaze!
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No air fryer, no problem! Simply roast the chicken and Brussels sprouts on a sheet pan in a hot oven (425°F) for about 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway. You’ll still get golden edges and plenty of flavor, though the air fryer provides a bit more crisp.
Is Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts gluten free?
It can be! Just swap the regular soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Always check your sweet chili sauce label to confirm it’s gluten free if you have sensitivities.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For extra heat, stir a teaspoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce into the glaze, or sprinkle a few chili flakes over the finished dish. The sweetness of the chili sauce is even better with a little kick!
What other vegetables can I use?
The sweet chili sauce pairs well with so much more than Brussels sprouts. Try this with broccoli, snap peas, red bell peppers, or even cauliflower for fun variations—just keep the veggie pieces bite-sized for quick, even air frying.
Final Thoughts
You truly can’t go wrong with the ease and bold flavors of Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts. It’s the kind of meal that tastes like you tried way harder than you did—perfect for busy nights or impressing guests. Give it a try, get creative with your garnishes and sides, and watch how fast it disappears from your table!
Print
Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts recipe is a delightful Asian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken pieces and crispy Brussels sprouts coated in a sweet and savory chili sauce. Cooked to perfection in the air fryer, this dish is a flavorful and healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sweet Chili Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- Prepare Chicken and Brussels Sprouts: In a large bowl, toss the chicken and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Air Fry: Arrange the chicken and Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Combine: Transfer the cooked chicken and Brussels sprouts to a bowl, pour the sauce over, and toss to coat.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Notes
- For extra heat, stir in a teaspoon of sriracha to the sauce.
- Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 16 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
