Sweet Chili Chicken with Crispy Brussels Sprouts in Air Fryer

© Original Recipe By Whisk & Wander ©

🌶️🍗 Sweet Chili Chicken with Crispy Brussels Sprouts in Air Fryer — The Perfect Easy Dinner Recipe! 🥦🔥

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a dish that balances sweet, spicy, and savory flavors with a satisfyingly crispy texture, then look no further than this air fryer sweet chili chicken with golden, crunchy Brussels sprouts. Perfectly seasoned chicken coated in a glossy, mildly spicy sweet chili sauce is elevated by the crispy Brussels sprout halves that add a delightful crunch in every bite. This dish embodies simple comfort with a modern, healthy twist, thanks to the magic of the air fryer.

Imagine biting into tender chicken glazed with a sticky, sweet chili sauce complemented by crispy Brussels sprouts that have been roasted to golden perfection—all cooked effortlessly in your air fryer. The result? A flavorful, eye-catching dish that’s ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 30 minutes: This quick and easy dinner recipe saves you time without sacrificing flavor.
• Healthy & Crispy: Achieves crispy texture using just a light coating and hot circulating air, reducing the need for oil.
• Flavorful & Versatile: Combines the spicy-sweet chili sauce with crispy greens—can be customized for spice levels.
• Minimal cleanup: The air fryer is a one-pot solution, making cleanup a breeze.

3. Ingredient Notes

To make this dish truly exceptional, sourcing high-quality ingredients makes a difference. Choose fresh, free-range chicken breasts for tender bites that absorb the flavorful sauce beautifully. When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for firm, compact heads—opt for organic if possible for the best flavor. The sweet chili sauce can be store-bought for convenience, but feel free to make your own in advance for added freshness and custom spice levels. Opt for a good-quality honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetness that balances the heat.

Spices like garlic powder, ginger, and a dash of rice vinegar add depth. Using fresh garlic and ginger enhances the aroma and overall taste—don’t skimp on these flavorful ingredients!

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

For the best results, having the right tools is essential. I recommend the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics — it’s perfect for evenly crisping your Brussels sprouts and cooking the chicken to perfection. Its digital controls simplify timing and temperature adjustments for consistent results.

The T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set makes sautéing and coating your chicken easy, and a good silicone brush can help evenly apply your sauce. Don’t forget a quality chef’s knife for precise cutting of the vegetables!

5. How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken with Crispy Brussels Sprouts in Air Fryer

Preparation

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, combine some cornstarch or arrowroot powder for a crispy coating—just enough to create a crunchy exterior.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, toss your chicken pieces gently in the coating, ensuring each piece is evenly covered. Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for about 12-15 minutes, tossing halfway through. Look for a golden, crispy exterior and aromatic smell.

Cooking the Brussels Sprouts

While the chicken cooks, halve the Brussels sprouts and toss them in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. When the chicken is nearly done, add the sprouts to the air fryer, arranging them around or beside the chicken. Roast for an additional 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway to ensure even crispiness. The sprouts should be tender inside and crispy on the edges, with a rich caramelized scent filling your kitchen.

Making the Sweet Chili Sauce

While both proteins and vegetables cook, whisk together your sweet chili sauce using store-bought or homemade. A simple mix of honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes simmered briefly creates a glossy, spicy-sweet glaze. Toss your cooked chicken in the sauce, just enough to coat, then serve with crispy Brussels sprouts on the side.

6. Expert Tips for Success

• Even Coating: Use cornstarch for a light but crisp coating on chicken—don’t skip it!
• Batch Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure crispy results. Cook in smaller batches if needed.
• Balance the sauce: Add the sauce gradually, tossing to coat evenly and prevent sogginess.
• Stay vigilant: Air fryers vary in cooking times—start checking at 10 minutes for the sprouts and 12 for the chicken to prevent burning.

7. Variations & Substitutions

Looking for variations? Replace chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein. Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version. For a milder dish, reduce the chili sauce or include a dollop of yogurt on top when serving. Roasted cauliflower or sweet potatoes can be a fantastic alternative to Brussels sprouts, keeping the dish vegan-friendly.

8. Storage & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place your chicken and sprouts back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. For best texture, avoid microwave reheating, which can make the sprouts soggy.

9. FAQ

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sweet chili sauce for extra heat.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, by ensuring your sweet chili sauce has no added sugars and using cauliflower rice or other low-carb sides, this dish can fit into a keto diet.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Fresh Brussels sprouts give the best crispiness, but if using frozen, thaw and pat dry thoroughly to help achieve that crispy exterior in the air fryer.

10. Conclusion

This air fryer sweet chili chicken with crispy Brussels sprouts combines the allure of sweet, spicy, and crispy textures effortlessly. It’s a no-fuss recipe that promises maximum flavor with minimal cleanup—and is guaranteed to become a weekly favorite. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Give this dish a try and enjoy a delicious, healthy meal in under 30 minutes!

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