If you’re craving a dinner that’s both bold and comforting, Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts is your new weeknight hero. This dish brings together juicy chicken thighs, crispy roasted Brussels sprouts, and a sticky-sweet chili glaze that clings to every bite. It’s a recipe that celebrates vibrant color, texture, and flavor, all while being a breeze to throw together thanks to the air fryer. Whether you’re a meal prep pro or just need something speedy and satisfying, Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts is about to become a staple on your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts is that the ingredient list is short, but each item packs a punch. Every addition has a role: the chicken soaks up the sauce, the Brussels sprouts crisp to perfection, and the glaze ties everything together with a sweet and tangy finish.
- Chicken thighs: Juicy, flavorful, and perfect for air frying since they stay tender—cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Brussels sprouts: Halved and trimmed, these little cabbages crisp up beautifully and offer a satisfying crunch.
- Olive oil: Helps everything roast up golden and keeps the chicken and sprouts moist.
- Garlic powder: Adds a gentle, savory backbone without overpowering the other flavors.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out the natural sweetness in the sprouts and enhancing the chicken.
- Black pepper: Lends subtle heat and depth, balancing the sweet and tangy glaze.
- Sweet chili sauce: The star of the show—sticky, sweet, and just a little spicy for that irresistible finish.
- Soy sauce: Brings salty, umami depth that rounds out the sauce.
- Rice vinegar: A splash of acidity brightens the glaze and keeps it from being too sweet.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love extra heat, a pinch goes a long way.
- Chopped green onions and sesame seeds: The final touch—crisp, fresh, and nutty for the perfect finish.
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F. While it’s heating up, grab a large bowl and toss your chicken pieces and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This quick marinade ensures every bite is full of flavor and gives the chicken and veggies a head start on browning.
Step 2: Arrange in the Air Fryer
Spread the chicken and Brussels sprouts in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd; you want that hot air to reach every surface for maximum crispiness. Depending on your air fryer’s size, you might need to work in batches, but trust me—it’s worth the extra few minutes.
Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection
Let the air fryer work its magic for 15 to 18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. You’re looking for chicken that’s cooked through and sprouts with caramelized, crispy edges. The aroma alone will have you counting down the seconds!
Step 4: Warm the Sweet Chili Glaze
While the chicken and sprouts are cooking, stir together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy!) in a small saucepan. Warm gently over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes, just until everything melds together and the sauce is glossy and fragrant.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Once the air fryer beeps, transfer the hot chicken and Brussels sprouts to a big bowl. Pour the warm sweet chili glaze over the top and toss everything together until the sauce coats each piece. Serve right away, topped with a sprinkle of chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a restaurant-worthy finish.
How to Serve Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts
Garnishes
Don’t skip the final flourish! A generous sprinkle of green onions adds freshness and color, while sesame seeds bring a gentle crunch and nutty aroma. For even more texture, try scattering chopped peanuts on top right before serving—your taste buds will thank you.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with fluffy steamed rice or nutty quinoa to soak up the extra sauce. If you’re after something lighter, try serving it alongside a crisp cucumber salad or a simple slaw for a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, pile the Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts into lettuce cups for a handheld appetizer, or serve them over a bed of greens for a warm, saucy salad. You can even tuck leftovers into a wrap with a smear of sriracha mayo for an easy lunch the next day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, making leftovers surprisingly craveable!
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, let the chicken and Brussels sprouts cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to two months. For best results, store the sauce separately and toss everything together after reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the chicken and sprouts back into the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F until warmed through and crispy again. Alternatively, a quick sauté in a hot skillet works well. Drizzle with extra sweet chili sauce to bring back that glossy finish.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works well if you prefer a leaner option, but keep in mind that thighs stay juicier and are less likely to dry out during air frying.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Just swap the soy sauce for a certified gluten-free version or use tamari. Always double-check your sweet chili sauce label to be sure.
How do I keep the Brussels sprouts from getting mushy?
The key is to halve and dry them thoroughly before tossing in oil, and make sure they’re not crowded in the air fryer basket. This ensures they roast and crisp instead of steam.
Can I make Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts ahead?
Yes, you can prep everything in advance and store the sauce separately. When ready to serve, just reheat and toss with the glaze for fresh flavor and texture.
What other veggies can I add to this dish?
Feel free to mix in bell peppers, snap peas, or thinly sliced carrots for extra color and crunch. Just cut them to a similar size as the chicken and Brussels sprouts so everything cooks evenly.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the irresistible combo of sweet, spicy, and savory you get with Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts. It’s a dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort—and once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again. Gather your ingredients, fire up the air fryer, and get ready for a dinner that’s as fun to share as it is to eat!
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Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts recipe is a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy chicken thighs and crispy Brussels sprouts are tossed in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy chili sauce, all cooked conveniently in the air fryer for a delicious Asian-inspired dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
Seasonings and Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F to ensure it’s hot and ready for cooking, which helps achieve crispy Brussels sprouts and juicy chicken.
- Toss Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly to ensure everything is well coated with the seasonings and oil.
- Air Fry the Chicken and Brussels Sprouts: Arrange the coated chicken and Brussels sprouts in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. If needed, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. Air fry them for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even cooking and browning. The chicken should be cooked through and the Brussels sprouts crispy.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken and sprouts cook, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
- Toss with Sauce and Serve: After cooking, transfer the chicken and Brussels sprouts to a large bowl and pour the warm sauce over them. Toss until everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- Chicken breast can be used instead of thighs, but thighs remain juicier and more flavorful.
- For extra crunch and texture, sprinkle chopped peanuts over the dish before serving.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce to keep the recipe gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
