Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that packs a punch of flavor, then this Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts is just what you need! This dish has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of tender chicken coated in a sweet and spicy sauce with crispy Brussels sprouts makes it a delightful option for busy weeknights or even family gatherings. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping ahead of time!

This recipe is all about ease and flavor, so you can whip it up without spending hours in the kitchen. I love how the air fryer makes everything so crispy without needing extra oil. Let’s dive into why this dish will quickly become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• High-Protein Goodness: Each serving is packed with 38 grams of protein, making it perfect for post-workout meals or whenever you need that extra boost.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweet chili sauce hits all the right notes, appealing to both kids and adults alike!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Cook once and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. It’s great for lunches or dinners on-the-go!
• Crispy Perfection: The air fryer gives the Brussels sprouts an irresistible crunch that complements the juicy chicken beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. You might already have some of them in your pantry!

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)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Brussels Sprouts

• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs or turkey instead of breasts for a different texture.
• Add more veggies: Toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition.
• Change up the sauce: Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or barbecue if you’re craving something new.
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade if you want more heat!

How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

First things first—preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that perfect crispy finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, ground ginger, and honey (if you’re using it). This flavorful marinade will give your chicken that delicious sweet and spicy kick!

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Next, coat them thoroughly with the sweet chili mixture. Make sure every inch is covered; this will help lock in moisture during cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Place the coated 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’re perfectly cooked.

Step 5: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

While the chicken cooks, season your halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Once your chicken is halfway done cooking, add these beautiful little greens to the air fryer basket. They’ll get delightfully crispy while soaking up some of those yummy flavors!

Step 6: Let It Rest

When your chicken is done cooking, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy!

Step 7: Serve It Up

Serve those juicy slices of chicken alongside crispy Brussels sprouts. If you like a little extra flavor, drizzle any remaining sweet chili sauce from the air fryer over everything. Enjoy every bite!

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

Cooking in the air fryer can be a breeze, but a few tips can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the sweet chili mixture for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) enhances the flavor profile and tenderness of the meat.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For optimal cooking, ensure there’s enough space in the air fryer basket. This allows hot air to circulate freely, resulting in crispy Brussels sprouts and perfectly cooked chicken.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger can significantly boost the flavor of your sauce. If you have them on hand, consider grating your own instead of using powders.
• Check Doneness with a Thermometer: Invest in a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• Experiment with Sauce Variations: Feel free to mix in other sauces or spices according to your taste preferences! Adding a dash of sesame oil or Sriracha can bring an exciting twist.

How to Serve Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

Presenting your dish beautifully can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas on how to plate and serve this delightful meal!

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions over the top for a burst of freshness and color.
• Sesame Seeds: A light sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the sweet and spicy chicken.
• Garlic Rice: Fluffy rice sautéed with garlic makes for a comforting side that soaks up any leftover sauce on your plate.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also provides extra nutrients to balance out your meal.
• Coconut Rice: Sweet coconut rice pairs beautifully with the flavors of the dish, giving it an exotic twist that will impress your family or guests.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to enjoy a deliciously flavorful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the components ahead of time, making it a convenient, healthy option for busy weekdays.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftovers to cool down to room temperature.
• Transfer chicken and Brussels sprouts to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Place chicken and Brussels sprouts in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, consider dividing into single-serving portions.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, use a microwave, but note that this may soften the Brussels sprouts.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the Brussels sprouts with other vegetables like broccoli or green beans. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the vegetable you choose.

How do I spice up my Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts?

To add more heat, you could include some crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce to your sweet chili mixture. This will give it an extra kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness!

Can I make Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts without soy sauce?

Yes! You can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative. The flavor will still be delicious!

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

The total cooking time is about 15 minutes: chicken typically takes around 12-15 minutes, while Brussels sprouts need around 8-10 minutes depending on their size.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try this Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts recipe! It’s not just easy to make; it’s packed with flavors that dance on your palate. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight meal or meal prep, this dish is sure to delight. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your experience!