Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal that gives you a warm hug from the inside, then this Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts is just what you need! This dish is not only packed with flavor but also high in protein, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something nutritious yet easy to whip up. I love how the sweet and spicy chili sauce clings to the chicken, while the Brussels sprouts turn crispy and golden, creating a delightful contrast in textures. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a meal prep option for the week ahead, this recipe has a special place in my heart.

What makes this dish even more appealing is its versatility. You can serve it on its own, pair it with rice, or toss in some extra veggies. It’s truly an all-around winner that your family will adore!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Flavors: The sweet chili sauce makes this dish appealing to both adults and kids alike!
• Healthy Protein Boost: Each serving is high in protein, perfect for those looking to fuel their day healthily.
• Crispy Goodness: Cooking in the air fryer gives the Brussels sprouts a delightful crunch without all the oil.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is great for batch cooking – enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! This recipe uses everyday items that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb/450g)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)

For the Brussels Sprouts

• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix it up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If chicken isn’t your thing, try using diced tofu or turkey breast instead for a different spin.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or broccoli florets with your Brussels sprouts for added nutrients.
• Change up the sauce: Use teriyaki sauce instead of sweet chili for a different flavor profile that’s just as delicious!
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to kick up the heat if you’re feeling adventurous!

How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice crispy outer layer we all love.

Step 2: Mix Your Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, ground ginger, and honey (if using). This marinade is key—it infuses flavor into the chicken while helping keep it moist during cooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before coating them with the sweet chili mixture. Make sure every inch of chicken is covered; this will maximize flavor as they cook.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket. Cook them for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are perfectly cooked.

Step 5: Prepare Your Brussels Sprouts

While your chicken cooks away happily, season those beautiful Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place them in the air fryer basket too—let’s make everything crispy together! Cook them for about 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Once your chicken is done cooking, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it up. This helps retain moisture so each bite is juicy!

Step 7: Serve It Up

Serve sliced chicken alongside those crispy Brussels sprouts. Drizzle any remaining sweet chili sauce from your air fryer basket over everything for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy every bite!

Now you’re ready to savor this deliciously easy Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts whenever hunger strikes!

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

Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these simple yet effective tips for a delicious Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts dish!

• Marinate Ahead: If time allows, marinate the chicken in the sweet chili sauce mixture for at least 30 minutes or even overnight. This extra time helps the flavors penetrate deeply into the chicken, making each bite more flavorful.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Make sure to leave some space between the chicken and Brussels sprouts in the air fryer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy textures, so it’s better to cook in batches if needed.
• Adjust Cooking Times: Depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts, cooking times may vary slightly. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger can enhance the flavor profile of this dish significantly. If you have them on hand, consider using freshly minced garlic and grated ginger instead of powdered forms.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to mix up your veggies! Other veggies like broccoli or green beans can be added alongside Brussels sprouts for variety and added nutrients.

How to Serve Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

Serving this dish is all about presentation! A colorful plate will not only look appealing but also enhance your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle some fresh green onions on top for a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the sweetness of the chili sauce.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, elevating both the presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the sweet chili flavors while adding extra protein.
• Steamed Rice: Fluffy steamed rice is always a classic side that absorbs any extra sauce, making every bite satisfying.
• Cucumber Slaw: A refreshing cucumber slaw with rice vinegar offers a crunchy contrast to the warm chicken and Brussels sprouts, adding brightness to your meal.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy bring an earthy sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the dish’s flavors while adding fiber and nutrients.

Enjoy crafting this delightful meal that’s sure to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken and Brussels sprouts to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure that the dish is completely cooled.
• Divide the chicken and Brussels sprouts into portions and place them in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but be aware that this may not maintain the crispiness of the Brussels sprouts.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for the Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a few extra minutes to reach 165°F (74°C).

What can I substitute for sweet chili sauce in this Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts recipe?

If you’re looking for a substitute, you can mix your own by combining honey with sriracha or another hot sauce. Adjust proportions to taste based on your desired spice level!

How long does it take to cook Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts?

Cooking this dish takes about 25 minutes total: 12-15 minutes for the chicken and around 8-10 minutes for the Brussels sprouts when cooked together.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts! It’s not only simple but also packed with flavor that makes every bite enjoyable. Whether you’re prepping meals for a busy week or just treating yourself to a quick dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences with me!