There’s something special about the way Asian Chilli Chicken comes together in the kitchen. The moment the garlic hits the sizzling sesame oil, you’re transported—perhaps to a bustling street market in Bangkok, where spicy aromas drift from open woks, or maybe to your own kitchen table, where the familiar scent signals dinner is about to become something extraordinary.
For me, this dish brings back memories of impromptu weeknight dinners where comfort was craved but time was short. My family always appreciated meals that carried bold flavor without complicated prep—and this one fits that bill perfectly. Inspired by classic Asian flavors but tailored for modern home cooks, Asian Chilli Chicken is the ultimate blend of spicy, sweet, and tangy.
Traditionally, dishes like this were made to awaken the palate, relying on balance—where heat from the chili is mellowed by honey, and soy sauce adds depth without overpowering. It’s a technique rooted in generations of home cooking across many cultures in East and Southeast Asia. Over time, this style of quick-cooked protein with sauce became a favorite fusion classic in Western kitchens as well, thanks to its irresistible mix of textures and flavors.
Served over jasmine rice, wrapped in lettuce cups, or paired with stir-fried greens, Asian Chilli Chicken adapts to seasons and occasions. In winter, it warms the soul with its chili heat. In summer, it dazzles served cold in noodle salads. No matter when or how, it’s always the star.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 13 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
- Restaurant Flavor at Home: That crave-worthy glaze rivals your favorite takeout.
- Customizable Heat: Make it as spicy or mild as you like without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Great with rice, noodles, or low-carb sides like steamed veggies.
- A Family Favorite: Even picky eaters enjoy the sweet and savory notes.
Asian Chilli Chicken
Description
There’s something special about the way Asian Chilli Chicken comes together in the kitchen. The moment the garlic hits the sizzling sesame oil, you’re transported—perhaps to a bustling street market in Bangkok, where spicy aromas drift from open woks, or maybe to your own kitchen table, where the familiar scent signals dinner is about to become something extraordinary.
For me, this dish brings back memories of impromptu weeknight dinners where comfort was craved but time was short. My family always appreciated meals that carried bold flavor without complicated prep—and this one fits that bill perfectly. Inspired by classic Asian flavors but tailored for modern home cooks, Asian Chilli Chicken is the ultimate blend of spicy, sweet, and tangy.
Traditionally, dishes like this were made to awaken the palate, relying on balance—where heat from the chili is mellowed by honey, and soy sauce adds depth without overpowering. It’s a technique rooted in generations of home cooking across many cultures in East and Southeast Asia. Over time, this style of quick-cooked protein with sauce became a favorite fusion classic in Western kitchens as well, thanks to its irresistible mix of textures and flavors.
Served over jasmine rice, wrapped in lettuce cups, or paired with stir-fried greens, Asian Chilli Chicken adapts to seasons and occasions. In winter, it warms the soul with its chili heat. In summer, it dazzles served cold in noodle salads. No matter when or how, it’s always the star.
Ingredients
- 500 g boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs or tenderloins)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1½ Tbsp rice flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1½ Tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp ginger, freshly grated
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup water
- 3 Tbsp sriracha
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce (light or all-purpose)
- ¼ cup honey (or brown sugar)
- 3 Tbsp lime juice (or 2 Tbsp rice vinegar)
- Garnishes: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, chopped fresh chili, lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by slicing your chicken breasts horizontally so they cook evenly and quickly. You’ll have four thinner fillets. Pat them dry, season with salt and pepper, and dust them lightly with rice flour. This creates a light crust that grips the sauce later.
Step 2: Sear Until Golden
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once shimmering, lay the chicken pieces in the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes per side. This searing locks in the juices and gives you that beautiful golden edge. Once cooked through, remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Build the Flavors
Lower the heat to medium. Add sesame oil to the pan, then toss in the garlic and ginger. Stir quickly—this part is fragrant and fast! After 15 seconds, add the chili flakes. Breathe in that warmth.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the water, sriracha, soy sauce, and honey. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens into a syrupy glaze. Stir in the lime juice to brighten everything.
Step 5: Glaze the Chicken
Return the chicken to the skillet, turning it in the sauce until fully coated. Let it sit in the glaze for another minute to absorb the flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Sprinkle with green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh chili. Serve over fluffy rice or alongside stir-fried greens with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
-
Substitute lime juice with rice vinegar if desired.
-
Use tofu or shrimp as alternate proteins—reduce cooking time accordingly.
-
Store leftovers for delicious wraps or rice bowls the next day.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
- 500 g boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs or tenderloins)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1½ Tbsp rice flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1½ Tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp ginger, freshly grated
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup water
- 3 Tbsp sriracha
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce (light or all-purpose)
- ¼ cup honey (or brown sugar)
- 3 Tbsp lime juice (or 2 Tbsp rice vinegar)
- Garnishes: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, chopped fresh chili, lime wedges
How to Make Asian Chilli Chicken
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by slicing your chicken breasts horizontally so they cook evenly and quickly. You’ll have four thinner fillets. Pat them dry, season with salt and pepper, and dust them lightly with rice flour. This creates a light crust that grips the sauce later.
Step 2: Sear Until Golden
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Once shimmering, lay the chicken pieces in the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes per side. This searing locks in the juices and gives you that beautiful golden edge. Once cooked through, remove the chicken and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Build the Flavors
Lower the heat to medium. Add sesame oil to the pan, then toss in the garlic and ginger. Stir quickly—this part is fragrant and fast! After 15 seconds, add the chili flakes. Breathe in that warmth.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the water, sriracha, soy sauce, and honey. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens into a syrupy glaze. Stir in the lime juice to brighten everything.
Step 5: Glaze the Chicken
Return the chicken to the skillet, turning it in the sauce until fully coated. Let it sit in the glaze for another minute to absorb the flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Sprinkle with green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh chili. Serve over fluffy rice or alongside stir-fried greens with lime wedges on the side.
Helpful Tips
- Make it mild: Swap half the sriracha for tomato ketchup or use less chili flakes for a gentler heat.
- Crispier texture: Use chicken thighs for juicier meat with a crispier edge.
- Sauce lover? Double the sauce ingredients to have extra for drizzling on rice or veggies.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan Sear
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
- Diet: Gluten-friendly (use gluten-free soy sauce)
Notes
- Substitute lime juice with rice vinegar if desired.
- Use tofu or shrimp as alternate proteins—reduce cooking time accordingly.
- Store leftovers for delicious wraps or rice bowls the next day.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: ~287 kcal
- Protein: 27 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fats: 11 g
- Sugar: 16 g
- Fiber: 1 g
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Asian chili chicken?
Asian chili chicken is a flavorful dish made with boneless chicken breasts cooked in a sweet and spicy sauce. The sauce typically includes honey and crushed chili flakes, creating a sticky glaze that’s both savory and satisfying. It’s often made in one pan on the stovetop for a quick and easy meal.
What is Chilli Chicken?
Chilli Chicken is a popular Indo-Chinese dish featuring crispy fried chicken pieces tossed in a tangy, spicy sauce with onions and bell peppers. It can be served dry as an appetizer or with gravy for pairing with rice or noodles. The balance of heat and sweetness makes it a crowd favorite.
Is Chinese Chilli Chicken Spicy?
Yes, Chinese Chilli Chicken is mildly spicy, but the heat is usually balanced with sweet ingredients like honey or sugar. You can adjust the spice level by adding or reducing chili flakes or sauce, making it perfect for those who enjoy bold, customizable flavors.
How to make Asian Chilli Chicken?
To make Asian Chilli Chicken, coat chicken pieces in flour or a flour-cornstarch mix, then fry until crispy. Prepare a thick sauce with ingredients like garlic, soy sauce, honey, and chili flakes. Toss the crispy chicken in the sauce until well coated and serve hot.
Storage Instructions
Store cooled Asian Chilli Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or microwave gently, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
Related Recipes
If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:
- Lime Chilli Coconut Chicken
- Crispy Chilli Beef: A Flavorful Takeaway Classic at Home
- A Taste of Home: The Story Behind Garlic Black Pepper Chicken
- A Cozy Bowl of Asian Chilli Chicken to Warm the Soul
Conclusion
Asian Chilli Chicken is more than a quick dinner—it’s a celebration of bold flavors, simple techniques, and shared meals. It’s the kind of dish you can whip up on a busy Tuesday and still feel like you’re eating something truly special. Whether it’s served at a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this spicy-sweet chicken never fails to impress. Keep this recipe close—it’s destined to become a household favorite.