Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal that brings the whole family to the table, look no further than my Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts! This dish is not only packed with flavor, but it also offers a delightful crunch from the brussels sprouts and a spicy kick from the chicken. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want something satisfying yet simple, perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings.

What makes this recipe extra special is how easy it is to whip up. You’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in just 30 minutes! Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it a go-to for meal prep or last-minute dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Combinations: The sweet chili sauce paired with spicy ginger creates a taste sensation that will leave you craving more!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the crispy brussels sprouts and tender chicken; it’s a win-win for everyone.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and veggies, this meal is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a larger batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need any fancy ingredients for this recipe—just wholesome staples that are easy to find! Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

For the Vegetables

• 12 oz Brussels Sprouts, stemmed and halved
• 1 Tablespoon (16g) Olive Oil
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1 teaspoon Black Pepper

For the Chicken

• 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, diced
• 1 Tablespoon (16g) Chili Oil
• 2 teaspoons Ground Ginger
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt

For Serving

• 1/4 cup (60g) Sweet Chili Sauce, plus more for serving

Variations

One of the best things about Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless turkey breast or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add other veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrients!
• Make it spicier: If you’re a heat lover, add more chili oil or even some fresh chili peppers.
• Try different sauces: Experiment with teriyaki or hoisin sauce if you want a new flavor profile.

How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Start by cutting off the stems from your brussels sprouts. Halve them and toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. This step is important because seasoning helps bring out their natural flavors while they cook.

Step 2: Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts

Add your seasoned brussels sprouts to an air fryer basket and cook at 400ºF for 10 minutes. The air fryer gives them that crispy texture without needing extra oil, making this dish healthier!

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

While the brussels sprouts are cooking, take your diced chicken breast and coat it in chili oil. Then add ground ginger, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt. Mixing these spices into the chicken ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Brussels Sprouts

Once the brussels sprouts have cooked for 10 minutes, add your seasoned chicken breast to the air fryer basket. Gently stir everything together so that each piece gets nice and crispy while cooking.

Step 5: Final Cook Time

Air fry everything together at 400ºF for another 10-12 minutes until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160ºF to 165ºF. Stir halfway through; this helps ensure even cooking and crispiness!

Step 6: Add Sweet Chili Sauce

Finally, pour in your sweet chili sauce, stirring everything together before air frying or broiling for an additional 1-2 minutes. This step caramelizes the sauce beautifully—perfect for drizzling over rice when serving!

And there you have it—the perfect Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts ready to delight your taste buds! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

Cooking can be a delightful journey, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to restaurant quality!

• Prep ahead: Take the time to prepare your ingredients in advance. Chopping the chicken and brussels sprouts beforehand ensures a smooth cooking process and allows the flavors to meld nicely.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Make sure not to overload the basket when cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and crisping, giving you that perfect texture without any sogginess.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh brussels sprouts and high-quality chili oil can make a significant difference in flavor. The fresher the ingredients, the more vibrant your dish will taste!
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to reduce the amount of chili oil or chili powder. On the other hand, if you love heat, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Let it rest: After cooking, allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting period helps lock in moisture and keeps everything tender.

How to Serve Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

Serving this delightful dish is all about presentation! Here are some ideas that will not only enhance the look but also elevate the dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle some freshly chopped green onions on top for added freshness and a pop of color.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: A light dusting of toasted sesame seeds adds both crunch and an appealing visual element that makes your dish look gourmet.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of acidity that balances out the sweetness of the chili sauce.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice pairs beautifully as it absorbs all those delicious sweet chili flavors while providing a neutral base for the main course.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette offers a crunchy contrast that complements the warmth of the chicken and brussels sprouts.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf is not only colorful but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy side option that rounds out your meal perfectly.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy provide a lovely sweetness that harmonizes well with your spicy chicken dish.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts will be an unforgettable hit at any dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and store it, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down before freezing.
• Portion out the chicken and brussels sprouts into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat in the air fryer at 350ºF for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a microwave until heated to your liking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use different vegetables with Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out brussels sprouts for other vegetables like bell peppers or green beans. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I ensure my chicken is cooked properly in Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts?

Make sure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160ºF to 165ºF. Using a meat thermometer is a great way to check!

What can I serve with Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad. Add lime wedges and additional sweet chili sauce for extra flavor!

Can I use frozen brussels sprouts for Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts?

Yes, you can use frozen brussels sprouts! However, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they crisp up nicely.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts recipe as much as I do! It’s not just flavorful but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Remember to savor each bite and share this delightful dish with your loved ones. Happy cooking!