If you’re craving a dinner that hits all the right notes—crispy, tender, sweet, and just a little bit spicy—then you absolutely need to try this Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe. It’s one of those magical combinations where juicy chicken and perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts come together with a luscious sweet chili glaze, creating a flavor party that’s quick to make and so satisfying. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become a fast favorite for weeknights and any time you want something both healthy and comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; each ingredient is a superstar that brings essential flavors and textures to the table, making the final dish vibrant and exciting. From aromatic seasonings to the perfectly tangy sweet chili sauce, every element plays a key role in making this recipe a standout.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender protein base that crisps beautifully in the air fryer while staying juicy inside.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps lock in moisture and promotes that perfect golden finish on both chicken and Brussels sprouts.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory depth without overwhelming the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic with subtle sweetness and complexity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate every bite.
- 1/2 pound Brussels sprouts, halved: Roasts up crispy on the edges, providing a wonderful crunch and earthy flavor.
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce: The star of the show for that perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds umami richness and depth to the sauce mix.
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional): A natural sweetness boost that mellows the chili kick gracefully.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional): For a delightful nutty crunch and visual appeal.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional): Brightens up the dish with a fresh herbal note.
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken and Brussels sprouts cook evenly and develop that gorgeous golden exterior. A preheated air fryer means less waiting and a more crisp result.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Take your chicken breasts and rub them generously with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This simple seasoning blend enhances the natural flavor of the chicken while setting the foundation for that delectable sweet chili glaze to shine.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the air fryer basket, making sure they have space to cook evenly. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. This flipping step helps both sides achieve a beautifully golden crust without drying out the tender meat inside.
Step 4: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
While the chicken is air frying, trim the ends off your Brussels sprouts and slice them in half. Toss them lightly with olive oil, salt, and pepper—this simple prep allows the sprouts to crisp up nicely and develop a lovely roasted flavor once in the air fryer.
Step 5: Add Brussels Sprouts and Continue Cooking
After the chicken has cooked for 10 minutes, arrange the prepared Brussels sprouts around the chicken inside the air fryer basket. Continue cooking everything for another 10 to 12 minutes. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), signaling that it’s perfectly cooked, and the Brussels sprouts to be nicely crispy with a tender middle.
Step 6: Mix the Sweet Chili Glaze
While the chicken and sprouts finish cooking, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and honey (if you’re using it) in a small bowl. This sauce will add a gorgeous, sticky, sweet, and slightly spicy coating that brings the whole dish to life.
Step 7: Drizzle and Garnish
Once the cooking is finished, transfer the chicken and Brussels sprouts to a serving plate. Generously drizzle your homemade sweet chili glaze over everything. If you like, sprinkle with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro for an extra pop of flavor and a beautiful presentation.
How to Serve Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro is a fantastic way to boost both flavor and presentation. The sesame seeds add a subtle nuttiness and crunch, while the cilantro injects a burst of fresh brightness that perfectly complements the sweet chili sauce.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines on its own, but you can round it out with fluffy jasmine rice or a simple quinoa salad to soak up every bit of the sweet chili sauce. Light cucumber salad or steamed jasmine rice make excellent companions, balancing the bold flavors here.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the chicken sliced and fanned out beside the Brussels sprouts for an elegant touch. Alternatively, chop everything and toss it all together for a colorful, saucy bowl that’s perfect for an easy lunch or casual dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The chicken and Brussels sprouts maintain their flavor well and can be quickly reheated without losing that tender-crisp texture.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, place the cooked chicken and Brussels sprouts in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. To freeze, it’s best to drizzle the sweet chili sauce just before serving rather than freezing the dish with sauce already applied.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the air fryer or oven to restore crispness, heating at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving for reheating as it can make the Brussels sprouts soggy and the chicken less appetizing.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs tend to need a bit longer to cook through—about 12-15 minutes total at 375°F should do it.
Do I need to flip the Brussels sprouts while cooking?
Flipping is not necessary if you arrange them evenly and allow space for air to circulate in the fryer. However, if you want extra even crisping, giving them a quick shake halfway through works great.
Is this recipe spicy?
The heat level is mild and balanced with sweetness thanks to the sweet chili sauce and honey. If you prefer it more spicy, try adding a dash of red pepper flakes or using a spicy chili sauce variant.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, swap chicken for firm tofu or cauliflower florets, and replace honey with maple syrup. The cooking times may vary slightly, but the flavors will still be delightful.
What’s the best way to check chicken doneness?
Use an instant-read thermometer and look for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is safely cooked but still juicy.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe is one of those dishes that just feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s flavorful, quick, and packed with textures you’ll love. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and discover just how easy it is to create something truly special with your air fryer. Trust me, it will become your go-to meal before you know it!
Print
Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A quick and flavorful Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken paired with crispy Brussels sprouts, tossed in a tangy sweet chili sauce. This easy recipe offers a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory notes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner for two.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables
- 1/2 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce and Garnishes
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking.
- Season the chicken: Coat the chicken breasts evenly with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over them for well-balanced flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Place chicken breasts into the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts: While the chicken cooks, trim the ends, halve the Brussels sprouts, and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Add Brussels sprouts to the air fryer: After 10 minutes, carefully arrange the Brussels sprouts around the chicken in the air fryer basket. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken registers 165°F (74°C) internally and the Brussels sprouts are crisp and caramelized.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and honey if using, stirring well to blend flavors.
- Finish and serve: Remove the chicken and Brussels sprouts from the air fryer. Drizzle generously with the sweet chili sauce mixture. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro if desired, and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute Brussels sprouts with other vegetables like broccoli or green beans if preferred.
- Honey is optional and can be omitted for a less sweet sauce or substituted with a sugar alternative for a diabetic-friendly version.
- Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- For extra crispiness, you can give the Brussels sprouts an additional 2-3 minutes in the air fryer.
- If your air fryer is small, you might need to cook the Brussels sprouts separately to avoid overcrowding.
