Introduction

This Slow Cooker Sweet Chili Chicken recipe is a deliciously simple way to enjoy tender, flavorful chicken with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy. Ideal for busy days, it requires minimal prep and cooks while you go about your routine. Serve it over rice for a comforting meal the whole family will love.

A white bowl filled with a colorful stir-fry featuring several layers: bright green broccoli florets and red bell pepper strips are mixed with golden-brown pieces of chicken, all coated in a glossy, rich brown sauce. Thin slices of translucent cooked onions are mixed throughout, adding texture. The dish is topped with small green onion rings and white sesame seeds scattered on top. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

1 cup sweet chili sauce

1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ginger, grated or minced

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)

1 onion, sliced

1 cup broccoli florets (optional)

Cooked rice, for serving

Chopped green onions, for garnish

Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Lay the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes until well combined.

Step 3: Pour the sauce over the chicken. Add the sliced bell pepper, onion, and broccoli florets (if using) on top of the chicken.

Step 4: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce and vegetables.

Serve the sweet chili chicken over cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha to the sauce.

Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result.

Feel free to swap broccoli for other vegetables like snap peas or carrots depending on your preference.

Use gluten-free soy sauce to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, but you can use frozen chicken if you increase the cooking time and ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?

Yes, you can simmer the sauce and chicken in a covered pan over low heat for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked and tender, stirring occasionally.