Crispy sweet chilli chicken

Crispy Sweet Chilli Chicken features marinated chicken thighs, coated in corn flour and fried until golden, then tossed in a sweet chilli salsa sauce with a refreshing lime squeeze. This dish is perfect as a main course or appetizer, delivering a delightful blend of spicy and sweet flavours.

13 Nov 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 40 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tbsp ginger root
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp black pepper
6 chicken thighs
1/3 cup corn flour
1/2 cup salsa sauce
1 lime

Crispy Sweet Chilli Chicken is a delightful recipe that combines the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served as a main course or as an appetizer. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of preparation, you can create a delicious meal that will impress your family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine the fish sauce, grated ginger root, minced garlic, and black pepper. Stir well to mix all the ingredients.

2. Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands to thoroughly coat the chicken thighs with the marinade.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate for up to 2 hours.

3. Coat the Chicken:
- After the chicken has marinated, take it out of the refrigerator. Put the corn flour in a shallow dish.
- Dredge each chicken thigh in the corn flour, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.

4. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet or non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil suitable for frying (such as vegetable oil or canola oil).
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated chicken thighs into the pan. Fry each side for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken thighs are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Depending on the size of your skillet, you may need to cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

5. Prepare the Sweet Chilli Sauce:
- Pour the sweet chilli salsa sauce into a small saucepan and place it over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook until the sauce is warm and slightly thickened.

6. Combine Chicken with Sauce:
- Once the chicken thighs are cooked and crispy, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Place the crispy chicken thighs in a clean bowl. Pour the warm sweet chilli salsa sauce over the chicken and gently toss to coat each piece evenly.

7. Finish with Lime:
- Squeeze the juice of one lime over the coated chicken for a burst of freshness and tanginess. Toss gently to mix.

8. Serve:
- Serve the crispy sweet chilli chicken hot, garnished with lime wedges for an extra zesty touch. Enjoy as a main dish with steamed rice or a fresh salad.

Crispy Sweet Chilli Chicken is a satisfying dish that brings together the bold flavors of fish sauce, ginger, garlic, and lime with the crunchy texture of corn-flour-coated chicken. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please. Enjoy your delicious creation with a side of rice or fresh vegetables for a complete meal.

Crispy sweet chilli chicken FAQ:

What is the best marinating time for the chicken thighs?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes. However, marinating for up to 2 hours is recommended for maximum tenderness and taste.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken thighs should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. The internal temperature must reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.

Can I use a different type of flour instead of corn flour?

Yes, you can substitute corn flour with all-purpose flour or rice flour for a similar texture. However, the flavor and crispiness may vary slightly.

How should I store leftover crispy sweet chilli chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness rather than a microwave.

What can I serve with crispy sweet chilli chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, fresh salads, or vegetables like stir-fried broccoli or bell peppers for a balanced meal.

Cooking Tips:

- Marinate the chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the fish sauce and spices for at least 30 minutes will enhance the flavor and tenderness.

- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ginger root and garlic cloves will provide a more vibrant and aromatic flavor compared to pre-ground or packaged options.

- Even coating: Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with corn flour for consistent crispiness when fried or baked.

- Heat oil properly: If frying the chicken, make sure the oil is hot enough to create a crispy exterior without overcooking the inside.

- Garnish with lime: A squeeze of fresh lime juice on the finished dish will add a refreshing citrusy note that balances the sweet and spicy flavors.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 400kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 16g
Fiber 1.78g
Sugar 1.74g
Fat 24g

Crispy sweet chilli chicken