Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs Recipe – Easy 40-Minute Bake

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a weeknight dinner that’s both incredibly flavorful and doesn’t take all day to make. Well, look no further! These Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs are a total game-changer. They’re sweet, spicy, a little bit sticky (obviously!), and ready in under an hour. I first made these when I was craving something a little different, and they’ve been a family favorite ever since.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honestly, what’s not to love? This recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The glaze is seriously addictive, the chicken is fall-off-the-bone tender, and the aroma while it’s baking? Divine! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce a little bit of Asian-inspired flavor into your regular rotation. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this deliciousness:

• 8 chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ cup toasted peanuts
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha
• 6-8 garlic cloves
• 1 inch piece of ginger
• 1 lemon

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can really elevate this dish.

Chicken Thighs: Choosing the Right Cut

Chicken thighs are the way to go here. They stay incredibly moist and flavorful, even with a longer bake. I prefer bone-in, skin-on thighs for the best flavor and crispy skin, but boneless, skinless will work in a pinch (reduce baking time slightly).

Sweet Chili Sauce: Brand Recommendations & Heat Levels

I usually reach for Mae Ploy Sweet Chili Sauce – it has a great balance of sweetness and spice. But feel free to experiment! Some brands are milder than others, so adjust the sriracha accordingly.

Fish Sauce: Understanding Regional Variations & Substitutes

Fish sauce adds that umami depth that really makes this glaze sing. Red Boat is a popular choice, but any good quality fish sauce will do. If you’re avoiding fish sauce, you can substitute with a tablespoon of soy sauce mixed with a teaspoon of rice vinegar and a pinch of seaweed flakes.

Sriracha: Adjusting the Spice Level

Sriracha is where you control the heat! Start with 1 tablespoon, and add more to taste. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can even use a milder chili garlic sauce.

Toasted Peanuts: Freshness & Roasting Tips

Freshly toasted peanuts make all the difference. You can toast them yourself in a dry pan for a few minutes, or buy pre-toasted ones. Just make sure they’re nice and crunchy!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, sriracha, minced garlic, minced ginger, and juice from the lemon. This is your glorious sticky glaze!
3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt. This helps the skin get extra crispy.
4. Melt the butter in a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron is perfect!) over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Then, flip and brown the other side for another minute or two.
5. Arrange the seared chicken thighs skin-side up in a foil-lined baking dish.
6. Generously coat the chicken with the prepared sticky glaze, making sure every nook and cranny is covered.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. For extra caramelization, broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
9. Garnish with crushed peanuts and fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Expert Tips

A few little secrets to take this recipe to the next level:

• Achieving Crispy Skin: Patting the chicken dry is key. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan when searing.
• Balancing Sweet, Spicy, and Savory Flavors: Taste the glaze before coating the chicken and adjust the sriracha or lemon juice to your liking.
• Preventing the Glaze from Burning: Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking and especially while broiling. If it starts to get too dark, lower the oven temperature or cover loosely with foil.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Sticky “Chicken” Thighs (Using Tofu or Seitan): Substitute the chicken thighs with firm or extra-firm tofu (pressed to remove excess water) or seitan. Adjust baking time accordingly.
• Gluten-Free Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Spice Level Adjustment: Mild to Extra Hot: Adjust the amount of sriracha to your preference. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also kick things up a notch!
• Festival Adaptation: Lunar New Year Celebration Dish: This dish is a wonderful addition to a Lunar New Year feast, symbolizing good luck and prosperity with its vibrant flavors and colors.

Serving Suggestions

These Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs are amazing with:

• Steamed rice (jasmine or basmati are my go-to’s)
• Stir-fried vegetables (broccoli, snap peas, and carrots are great)
• A fresh cucumber salad
• Noodles

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. The glaze will lose some of its stickiness upon reheating, but it will still be delicious!

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? You can, but thighs are much more forgiving and stay juicier. If using breasts, reduce the baking time to 20-25 minutes.
• How can I make the glaze ahead of time? Absolutely! The glaze can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• What is a good substitute for fish sauce? Soy sauce mixed with a teaspoon of rice vinegar and a pinch of seaweed flakes works well.
• Can I grill these chicken thighs instead of baking? Yes! Grill over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, basting frequently with the glaze.
• How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? Use a meat thermometer! The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• What side dishes pair well with Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken? Steamed rice, stir-fried veggies, and a fresh salad are all fantastic choices.

Enjoy! Let me know in the comments how yours turn out. I love hearing from you all!