Chamli Nawod 
Ingredients for Sweet Chili Lime Chicken
This recipe uses simple ingredients that combine to create complex flavors. The sweet chili sauce provides sweetness with a hint of heat, while the lime juice adds brightness that cuts through the richness. The soy sauce brings depth and umami that ties everything together.
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if preferred)
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, finely minced (optional)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sesame seeds
- Lime wedges
- Sliced green onions
Essential Kitchen Tools
Having the right tools makes preparing this Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Recipe much easier and ensures perfect results every time. Here are the five essential tools I recommend:
Non-Stick Skillet
A quality non-stick skillet prevents the sweet chili lime sauce from burning and makes cleanup a breeze. The 12-inch size provides enough space to cook chicken without overcrowding.
Glass Mixing Bowls
Glass mixing bowls are perfect for marinating the chicken and mixing the sweet chili lime sauce. They won’t absorb flavors or stains from the sauce ingredients.
Microplane Zester
A good zester is essential for extracting the flavorful oils from lime zest, which adds incredible depth to the sweet chili lime sauce without any bitterness.
Instant-Read Thermometer
Never overcook your chicken again! This thermometer ensures your chili lime chicken reaches the perfect 165°F internal temperature for juicy, safe results every time.
Silicone-Tipped Tongs
These tongs make it easy to flip the chicken without piercing it, keeping all those flavorful juices inside. The silicone tips won’t scratch your non-stick cookware.
How to Make Sweet Chili Lime Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, lime zest, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, ginger (if using), red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until well combined. The marinade should have a smooth consistency with a beautiful reddish-orange color.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish and pour about ¾ of the marinade over them, reserving the remaining ¼ for glazing later. Make sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor penetration.
Pro Tip: For maximum flavor, score the chicken breasts with shallow cuts before marinating. This allows the sweet chili lime marinade to penetrate deeper into the meat.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Add the chicken to the hot pan and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts.
Step 4: Glaze and Finish
During the last 2 minutes of cooking, pour the reserved marinade over the chicken and turn to coat, allowing it to reduce into a thick, glossy glaze. Be careful not to burn the sauce as the sugar content can caramelize quickly.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Transfer the cooked Sweet Chili Lime Chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring maximum juiciness. Slice against the grain and drizzle with any remaining pan sauce.
Recipe Variations
This Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to adapt it to your preferences:
Grilled Version
For a smoky flavor, grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Brush with the reserved sauce during the last few minutes of grilling.
Baked Version
Preheat oven to 425°F. Place marinated chicken in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through. Brush with reserved sauce during the last 5 minutes of baking for a delicious glaze.
Chicken Thighs Option
Substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for breasts. They’re more forgiving when cooking and stay juicier. Adjust cooking time to about 6-7 minutes per side until they reach 165°F internally.
Spicy Version
Double the red pepper flakes and add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha to the marinade for an extra kick. You can also add thinly sliced fresh jalapeños as a garnish for those who enjoy more heat.
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet Chili Lime Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Here are some perfect accompaniments:
Rice Options
- Jasmine rice
- Coconut rice
- Cilantro lime rice
- Brown rice for a healthier option
Vegetable Sides
- Steamed broccoli
- Asian slaw
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Cucumber salad with rice vinegar
Creative Uses
- Slice for tacos with avocado
- Add to rice bowls with vegetables
- Chop for Asian-inspired salads
- Use in lettuce wraps with fresh herbs
Perfect Your Sweet Chili Lime Chicken
Want to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked every time? A reliable instant-read thermometer is the secret to juicy, safe chicken that’s never dry or undercooked.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
This Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Recipe is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store and reheat it for maximum flavor and food safety:
Refrigerating
Store cooled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually continue to develop, making leftovers even more delicious!
Freezing
Freeze cooked chicken in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Gently reheat in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave at 70% power with a damp paper towel covering the chicken to maintain moisture.
Meal Prep Ideas
Cook a double batch and portion with rice and vegetables in meal prep containers for quick lunches throughout the week. The sweet chili lime flavor profile holds up well for several days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?
While fresh lime juice provides the best flavor for this Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Recipe, bottled lime juice can work in a pinch. However, you won’t get the aromatic oils from the lime zest, which adds significant depth to the dish. If using bottled juice, consider adding a bit of lime zest if available or a small splash of rice vinegar for brightness.
What brand of sweet chili sauce do you recommend?
Mae Ploy and Thai Kitchen are excellent commercial brands that offer authentic flavor. Look for them in the international aisle of your grocery store. For a lower-sugar option, there are several “lite” versions available as well.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Recipe gluten-free, simply substitute tamari or coconut aminos for the soy sauce. Also check that your sweet chili sauce is gluten-free, as some brands may contain wheat-based ingredients.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 380°F. Cook the marinated chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Brush with the reserved sauce during the last 2 minutes of cooking. The air fryer creates a wonderful caramelization on the sweet chili lime glaze.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Recipe
This Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen for good reason. It strikes the perfect balance between convenience and impressive flavor. The sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy profile appeals to almost everyone, making it ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests. Plus, the versatility means you can serve it multiple ways throughout the week without getting bored.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The caramelized glaze creates a beautiful presentation that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen, when in reality it comes together in just 30 minutes. Give this Sweet Chili Lime Chicken a try – I’m confident it will earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection!
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