There’s something magical about the crunch of perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts mingling with tender chicken in a sweet-spicy glaze. My journey into making Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken with Brussels Sprouts was born from a simple desire: to create a quick dinner that feels like a restaurant-quality meal on a busy weeknight. This high-protein, low-carb dish is not only easy to whip up in just 30 minutes, but it’s also a delightful crowd-pleaser sure to impress both family and friends. Imagine biting into the crispiness of those Brussels sprouts while savoring the flavor-packed chicken—it’s a culinary harmony that makes healthy eating enjoyable. Are you ready to transform your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive in!
Why is this recipe a weeknight favorite?
Quick, effortless prep: With just 30 minutes required, this dish is perfect for those hectic evenings when time is of the essence.
High-protein goodness: Packed with tender chicken and nutritious Brussels sprouts, it makes for a satisfying meal that fits seamlessly into your healthy lifestyle.
Flavor explosion: The delightful combination of sweet chili sauce with savory spices dances on your palate, ensuring you won’t miss takeout.
Versatile delight: Pair it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist or serve alongside a fresh sesame cucumber salad for that extra crunch. For more easy, flavorful options, check out my recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken or enjoy some Maple Brussels Sprouts on the side!
Crispy perfection: Air frying brings that desirable crunch without the extra oil, making every bite a crispy delight!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a friendly gathering, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken Brussels Sprouts
Dive into the deliciousness of this recipe with these essential ingredients!
For the Brussels Sprouts
• Brussels Sprouts – Freshness and crunch are key; use pre-trimmed for convenience, or frozen sprouts can be microwaved before halving.
• Olive Oil – Coats vegetables and enhances flavor; you can use chili oil for added spiciness if you like it hot.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavors perfectly; feel free to substitute with sea salt in equal amounts.
• Black Pepper – Adds depth; freshly ground black pepper is preferred for a better flavor profile.
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast – Primary protein source that keeps things light; cube into 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
• Chili Oil – Adds a spicy kick; if you’re out, olive oil with crushed red pepper makes a great substitute.
For the Seasoning
• Ground Ginger – Provides warmth and spice; fresh ginger can be used for a stronger, zestier flavor.
• Garlic Powder – Aromatic flavor enhancer; fresh minced garlic works well as a substitute at a 1:1 ratio.
• Chili Powder – Introduces heat and color; adjust the quantity to suit your taste preferences.
For the Glaze
• Sweet Chili Sauce – Final glaze that brings an irresistible sweetness; keep extra on hand for serving alongside this Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken Brussels Sprouts!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Prep Brussels Sprouts
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. While it’s heating, take fresh Brussels sprouts, wash, and halve them. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Once preheated, arrange the seasoned sprouts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer. Air fry for 10 minutes until they are golden and crispy at the edges.
Step 2: Season Chicken
While the Brussels sprouts are crisping up, take a medium bowl and combine diced boneless skinless chicken breast with chili oil, ground ginger, garlic powder, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to ensure each piece of chicken is coated with the flavorful seasoning. This step enhances the chicken for your Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken, adding a delightful kick.
Step 3: Combine & Cook
Once the Brussels sprouts are done, remove them from the air fryer and set aside. Add the seasoned chicken to the air fryer along with the crispy Brussels sprouts. Stir gently to combine the ingredients, then air fry at 400°F for an additional 12-14 minutes, stirring halfway through. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160-165°F for perfect doneness.
Step 4: Glaze & Finish
To bring everything together, drizzle sweet chili sauce over the chicken and Brussels sprouts mixture. Stir to ensure the glaze coats all the ingredients evenly. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting the glaze caramelize slightly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning and achieve a beautiful, sticky finish for your Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken Brussels Sprouts.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken Brussels Sprouts
There’s nothing like the harmony of flavors and textures that elevate your dinner experience and create lasting memories.
- Coconut Jasmine Rice: This adds a touch of creaminess that complements the sweet-spicy chicken beautifully; perfect for soaking up all that delicious glaze.
- Sesame Cucumber Salad: A refreshing crunch paired with the warm chicken, this salad provides a bright contrast, balancing the richness of the main dish.
- Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy, low-carb alternative that mirrors the smoothness of mashed potatoes while contrasting the crispy Brussels sprouts.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty and fluffy, quinoa brings unique texture and protein, enhancing the meal’s nutritional profile without overwhelming the dish.
- Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Sweet tangy pineapple offers a tropical flair that plays wonderfully against the heat of the chili sauce and deepens the flavor journey.
- Classic Coleslaw: Crisp and tangy coleslaw can cut through the richness and offers a delightful crunch alongside the main dish, making every bite exciting.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink option that cleanses the palate, allowing the sweet and spicy flavors of the dish to shine through with every bite.
- Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich chocolate mousse; its smooth texture and sweetness provide a delightful contrast to the savory chicken.
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken Brussels Sprouts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on hectic weeknights! You can prep the Brussels sprouts and chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wash and halve the Brussels sprouts, toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the chicken, season it with chili oil, ginger, garlic powder, and chili powder and keep it covered in the fridge as well. When you’re ready to serve, air fry the prepped ingredients as usual, ensuring everything reaches the proper temperature for a just-as-delicious finish! This way, you can enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken Brussels Sprouts Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful dish for even more enjoyable meals!
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Low-Carb Delight: Substitute jasmine rice with cauliflower rice for a light and healthful option that still fills you up.
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Refreshingly Crisp: Pair your meal with a sesame cucumber salad for a crunchy contrast that balances the sweetness of the dish.
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Protein Boost: Add steamed edamame to the mix for an extra protein punch, ensuring that you maximize nutrients and flavor in each bite.
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Quinoa Base: Use quinoa as a base instead of starchier options for a well-rounded, nutrient-dense meal.
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Spice It Up: Experiment with chili garlic sauce or sriracha for a bolder heat level that intensifies the sweet-spicy experience.
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Herb Infusion: Add freshly chopped cilantro or basil before serving to brighten up the flavors and add a fresh herbal note.
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Creative Glazes: Try using a hoisin sauce drizzle instead of sweet chili sauce for a uniquely savory-sweet twist that’ll wow your taste buds.
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Veggie Medley: Include sweet peppers or snap peas to the air fryer for a colorful, vibrant addition that diversifies the texture and flavor palate.
Feeling inspired? For another quick and flavorful dinner option, check out my recipe for Butter Chicken Easily or those delightful Thai Coconut Chicken skewers!
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken
- Crispiness, Guaranteed: For the best crispy Brussels sprouts, air fry them separately before adding the chicken. This ensures they maintain their delightful crunch.
- Consistent Cooking: Cut chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking. Larger pieces can remain undercooked while smaller ones overcook.
- Perfect Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160-165°F for safe eating.
- Personal Touch: Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference. A little more can crank up the spicy flavor in this Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken Brussels Sprouts dish!
- Leftovers with Love: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes to reclaim that crispy texture.
Storage Tips for Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken Brussels Sprouts
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Reheat when ready to enjoy!
Freezer: Freeze leftovers in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months. For best quality, ensure they are cooled completely before freezing.
Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the dish soggy.
Serving Suggestions: When reheating, consider adding a drizzle of additional sweet chili sauce for an extra burst of flavor when enjoying your Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken Brussels Sprouts!
Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! Choose Brussels sprouts that are firm, bright green, and free of dark spots. Smaller sprouts tend to be sweeter and more tender, making them a better choice for this recipe. If using frozen Brussels sprouts, microwave them for a few minutes to help them cook evenly.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh and flavorful. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! For freezing, allow the dish to cool completely and then transfer it to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just be sure to label it with the date, so you don’t forget!
What if my chicken is undercooked?
If you find that your chicken isn’t cooked through, simply return it to the air fryer. Cook it at 400°F for another 3-5 minutes, checking the temperature with an instant-read thermometer to ensure it reaches 160-165°F.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Very much so! This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken Brussels Sprouts is gluten-free, high in protein, and low in carbs, making it a great option for various dietary needs. However, check the sweet chili sauce for any allergens, as some brands may include gluten or other allergens.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To bring back that delightful crunch, I recommend reheating in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3-5 minutes. This method keeps the Brussels sprouts crispy and the chicken tender. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make them soggy. Enjoy!
Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken Brussels Sprouts for Easy Dinner Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Wash and halve the Brussels sprouts, then toss with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper until coated. Air fry for 10 minutes until golden and crispy.
- In a medium bowl, combine diced chicken breast with chili oil, ground ginger, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt. Mix well to coat chicken evenly.
- Remove the Brussels sprouts from the air fryer and add the seasoned chicken. Stir gently, then air fry for an additional 12-14 minutes, stirring halfway through, until chicken reaches 160-165°F.
- Drizzle sweet chili sauce over the mixture and stir to coat evenly. Air fry for another 1-2 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
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