Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
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If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfectly balanced in both taste and nutrition, then this Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. Tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a tangy-sweet chili glaze paired with crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts cooked to perfection in the air fryer make this dish a weeknight winner you’ll want to revisit again and again. It’s a simple recipe that delivers impressive results, bringing a delightful combination of textures and bold flavors to your plate with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe plays an essential role, from building layers of flavor to adding crunchy textures and gorgeous color. These simple pantry staples come together to create a dish that feels special yet is incredibly straightforward to make.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that cooks quickly and stays tender inside the air fryer.
- Olive oil: Helps season the chicken and Brussels sprouts while promoting crispy edges.
- Garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory depth that complements the sweet chili sauce beautifully.
- Onion powder: A subtle layer of sweetness and richness to enhance the seasoning.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing all the flavors and bringing out the natural tastes.
- Brussels sprouts: The star vegetable here—when halved and air fried, they become perfectly crispy yet tender inside.
- Sweet chili sauce: The key to that irresistible sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy glaze coating the chicken and veggies.
- Soy sauce: Adds umami and a slight saltiness that rounds out the sauce.
- Honey (optional): A touch of natural sweetness to elevate the sauce to a perfect balance.
- Sesame seeds (optional): Provides a lovely nutty crunch and visual flair as a finishing touch.
- Fresh cilantro (optional): Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes and color garnish.
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 the chicken cooks evenly and the Brussels sprouts get that nice crispy texture you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Rub the chicken breasts generously with olive oil, then sprinkle them with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. These seasonings help build a savory foundation for the sweet chili glaze to shine later on.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket and let them cook for 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even browning. The air fryer’s heat seals in the juices, resulting in tender, juicy chicken every time.
Step 4: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
While the chicken is cooking, trim off the ends of the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance their natural flavors and ensure they crisp nicely when air fried.
Step 5: Add Brussels Sprouts to the Air Fryer
After the initial 10 minutes, nestle the Brussels sprouts around the chicken in the basket. Continue cooking everything together for an additional 10 to 12 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sprouts have turned beautifully golden and crispy.
Step 6: Whip Up the Sweet Chili Sauce Mixture
While the chicken and Brussels sprouts finish cooking, mix the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and honey in a small bowl. This sauce brings the perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and savory, creating that addictive glaze for your dish.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Once everything is cooked, remove the chicken and Brussels sprouts from the air fryer and place them on a serving plate. Drizzle the sweet chili sauce mixture generously over the top, letting it cling to every bite.
Step 8: Garnish with Extras
For an extra pop of flavor and texture, sprinkle sesame seeds and scatter some fresh cilantro over the dish as a final flourish. These little details elevate the presentation and add layers of taste that’s truly satisfying.
How to Serve Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches like a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro leaves not only add beautiful color but also contribute a fragrant and nutty contrast that complements the bold sweet chili glaze perfectly.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple steamed jasmine rice or fragrant quinoa, helping to soak up any extra sauce. For a low-carb alternative, serve alongside cauliflower rice or a crisp green salad. These sides keep the meal fresh and balanced without overpowering the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating the chicken sliced over a bed of the Brussels sprouts to showcase the crispy edges and juicy interior. Drizzling extra sauce artistically around the plate or serving the sauce on the side for dipping makes the experience even more interactive and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken and Brussels sprouts store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it easy to enjoy this delicious dish again without investing time in a full cooking session.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe longer, freeze cooked portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that Brussels sprouts may lose some texture after freezing and reheating.
Reheating
The best way to reheat leftovers is by using the air fryer or oven to retain crispiness, heating at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving directly as it can make the Brussels sprouts soggy and chicken dry.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but be sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly before tossing with oil and seasoning to avoid excess moisture that prevents crisping in the air fryer.
Is this recipe spicy?
The sweet chili sauce gives a gentle kick of heat balanced by sweetness. You can adjust the spice level by choosing a milder or hotter chili sauce depending on your taste.
Can I substitute chicken breasts with thighs?
Definitely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay juicy. Just monitor the cooking time as thighs might take slightly longer to reach the safe internal temperature.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can replicate this dish in the oven at 400°F (200°C), roasting chicken and Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and flipping halfway through, though the texture won’t be quite as crisp as with an air fryer.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the sweet chili sauce mixture in advance is a great idea! Store it in the fridge and drizzle it freshly over the cooked chicken and sprouts for maximum flavor and freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe is such a vibrant and satisfying meal that never fails to impress whether for a cozy dinner or a casual weeknight feast. It combines ease with mouthwatering bold flavors and textures so well, you’ll wonder why it isn’t already a regular in your recipe rotation. Give it a go — your taste buds will thank you!
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Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
A quick and flavorful Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts recipe that combines crispy chicken breasts and roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in a sweet chili sauce for a deliciously spicy and sweet meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
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
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
Garnish (Optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Season the chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season both sides evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to build flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning on both sides.
- Prepare Brussels sprouts: While the chicken is cooking, trim the ends and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper to season.
- Air fry Brussels sprouts with chicken: After the initial 10 minutes, add the Brussels sprouts around the chicken in the air fryer basket. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the Brussels sprouts are crispy and tender.
- Make the sweet chili sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and honey (if using) until well combined.
- Combine and serve: Remove the chicken and Brussels sprouts from the air fryer, drizzle with the sweet chili sauce mixture, then garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
- Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by omitting or adding more honey according to taste.
- For extra crispiness, air fry the Brussels sprouts separately after the chicken is done.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, this recipe can be adapted for baking at 400°F (204°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Fresh cilantro and sesame seeds add a nice visual and flavor contrast but are optional.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
