Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, perfectly balanced between savory and a touch of sweetness, and comes together in a flash, the Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe is destined to become your new favorite. Crispy Brussels sprouts paired with tender, spicy-sweet chicken create a mouthwatering pairing that’s as wholesome as it is delicious. Thanks to the magic of the air fryer, this meal cooks up quickly with minimal fuss but maximum payoff, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something impressive yet easy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in the Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe plays a crucial role in delivering vibrant colors, fresh textures, and layered flavors. From the slightly bitter snap of Brussels sprouts to the zesty sweetness of chili sauce, these simple components come together beautifully in your air fryer basket.
- 12 oz Brussels sprouts, stemmed and halved: These little green gems add a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon (16g) olive oil: Olive oil ensures that the Brussels sprouts crisp up nicely without drying out.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances flavors and enhances the natural taste of the ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the dish.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced: The lean protein that soaks up all those aromatic spices and sauces.
- 1 tablespoon (16g) chili oil: Gives the chicken a rich, spicy kick before cooking.
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger: Offers a warm, slightly peppery note that complements the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Builds savory dimensions without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Brings an extra layer of smokiness and heat to the dish.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Used to season the chicken for perfect balance.
- ¼ cup (60g) sweet chili sauce, plus more for serving: The star of the show—a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy flavors that glaze the chicken and Brussels sprouts beautifully.
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Begin by trimming off the tough stem ends of the Brussels sprouts and cutting each in half. This helps them cook evenly and get beautifully crispy edges in the air fryer.
Step 2: Toss Brussels Sprouts with Olive Oil and Seasoning
Drizzle olive oil over the halved Brussels sprouts, then sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper. Toss until every piece is well-coated, setting the stage for golden, flavorful veggies.
Step 3: Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it’s nice and hot. Place the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket and cook for about 10 minutes. This initial cooking gets them crisp and tender.
Step 4: Season the Chicken
While the Brussels sprouts are sizzling away, toss the diced chicken with chili oil. Sprinkle in ground ginger, garlic powder, chili powder, and kosher salt. Mix everything thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly with those vibrant spices.
Step 5: Add Chicken to the Air Fryer
After the Brussels sprouts have crisped for 10 minutes, add the seasoned chicken directly into the air fryer basket. Toss the sprouts and chicken gently if needed to spread everything out for even cooking.
Step 6: Cook Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Together
Air fry both ingredients together at 400°F for another 10 to 12 minutes. Be sure to stir halfway through cooking to promote even browning and ensure the chicken reaches a safe 160°F-165°F internally.
Step 7: Add Sweet Chili Sauce and Caramelize
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, stir in ¼ cup of sweet chili sauce to the mix. Then return it to the air fryer or pop everything under a broiler for 1 to 2 minutes to let the sauce caramelize slightly, creating a gloriously sticky, flavorful coating.
Step 8: Serve
Serve this irresistible combo piping hot, pairing it with your choice of rice and any extra sweet chili sauce you like for dipping. Now you’re ready to dig into the vibrant goodness you just created!
How to Serve Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the dish for a nutty crunch and a touch of visual appeal. Squeezing fresh lime wedges right onto the chicken and sprouts adds a burst of zesty brightness that cuts through the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with fluffy jasmine rice or steamed brown rice, which soak up that amazing sweet chili sauce. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice or a simple mixed green salad create a fresh, crisp counterpoint.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the chicken and Brussels sprouts over a bed of lightly fried rice noodles, topped with fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil. Alternatively, stuff the mixture into warm pita pockets or lettuce wraps for an easy, handheld delight that’s perfect for casual meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making second-day meals even more satisfying.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, portion the cooked chicken and Brussels sprouts into freezer-safe containers or bags. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes to bring back crispness, or gently warm in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that lovely texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Fresh Brussels sprouts work best here for maximum crunch, but if you only have frozen, thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before cooking to minimize sogginess.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level is mild to moderate thanks to the chili oil and chili powder with a sweet balance from the sweet chili sauce, making it approachable even if you’re sensitive to heat.
Can I substitute chicken breast with other proteins?
Absolutely! Diced chicken thighs, shrimp, or even tofu can be great alternative proteins and will work beautifully with the seasoning and cooking method.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can roast the Brussels sprouts and chicken in a preheated oven at 425°F, adjusting cooking times as needed until everything is cooked through and caramelized.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Ensure your sweet chili sauce is gluten-free—many brands offer this option—and double-check all other spices to avoid hidden gluten ingredients.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe is a superstar for anyone craving a fast, flavorful meal that feels special without a fuss. Once you try this dish, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without the beautiful combo of crispy Brussels sprouts and sweet, spicy chicken. Give it a go and watch how quickly it becomes a staple in your dinner lineup!
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Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts recipe offers a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Crispy Brussels sprouts and tender chicken breast are tossed in a spicy and sweet chili sauce, all cooked conveniently in the air fryer for a deliciously caramelized finish.
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
Optional Garnishes
- Cooked rice
- Sesame seeds
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts for even cooking and better texture.
- Toss Brussels Sprouts: In a bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper to season evenly.
- Air Fry Brussels Sprouts: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes until they start to crisp and brown.
- Season the Chicken: While the Brussels sprouts are cooking, coat the diced chicken breast with chili oil. Sprinkle ground ginger, garlic powder, chili powder, and kosher salt over the chicken. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly seasoned.
- Add Chicken to Air Fryer: After the Brussels sprouts have cooked for 10 minutes, add the seasoned chicken to the basket alongside the Brussels sprouts.
- Cook Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Together: Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F-165°F and sprouts are tender and crisp.
- Add Sweet Chili Sauce: Stir in ¼ cup sweet chili sauce into the air fryer basket, mixing well to coat the chicken and Brussels sprouts.
- Caramelize the Sauce: Air fry or use the broil setting for 1-2 minutes to caramelize the sauce, giving the dish a glossy finish and enhanced flavor.
- Serve: Serve the sweet chili chicken and Brussels sprouts hot alongside rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and lime wedges, and offer extra sweet chili sauce if desired.
Notes
- Ensure Brussels sprouts are trimmed and halved evenly for uniform cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- If your air fryer basket is small, cook the chicken and Brussels sprouts in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Adjust chili powder and sweet chili sauce amounts according to your preferred spice level.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Fusion, American
