This Easy Sweet Chili Chicken Marinade adds a flavorful kick to your chicken! With just sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and a hint of garlic, it’s super simple to whip up.
I love how quick it is to prepare! Just mix everything, let the chicken soak, and you’ll have a tasty dish ready in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are my favorite because they stay juicy during cooking. You could use breasts if you prefer, but they may be less tender.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This sauce is essential for that sweet and spicy flavor. If you can’t find it, homemade sauce with sugar, vinegar, and chili flakes could work as a substitute!
Soy Sauce: It adds a nice salty depth. For a gluten-free option, you can use tamari or coconut aminos. Both provide a similar flavor.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the marinade. If you don’t have lime, lemon juice can work as a substitute. Just keep an eye on the tartness.
Garlic and Ginger: These aromatics bring a lovely flavor to the marinade. If you don’t have fresh ginger, ground ginger can be used (half the amount should suffice!).
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Is Tender and Flavorful?
To ensure your chicken is tender and fully flavored, marinating is key! Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best.
- After mixing your marinade, place it in a bag or dish with the chicken, making sure it coats it well.
- Seal or cover it tightly to lock in those flavors.
- During cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting. This keeps it juicy!
Easy Sweet Chili Chicken Marinade
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime slices (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This marinade is quick to prepare! You’ll need about 10 minutes to mix up the marinade and prepare the chicken. After that, let it marinate for at least 30 minutes—ideally 2-4 hours or overnight for the best flavor. Cooking it on the grill usually takes around 12-16 minutes. So, plan for a total of at least 1 hour for marinating and cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Create the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, freshly squeezed lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger (if you’re using it), olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well until it’s nicely combined!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, though 2-4 hours or even overnight is best to soak up all that flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to keep the chicken from sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade (and toss the leftover marinade) and place the chicken on the grill.
4. Cooking Time:
Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice charred marks. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Garnish with fresh lime slices for a bright touch, and serve it hot alongside grilled corn or your favorite sides.
Enjoy this juicy, tangy, and slightly sweet grilled chicken! It’s perfect for summer cookouts or easy weeknight dinners! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Sweet Chili Chicken Marinade
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but keep in mind they may cook faster than thighs. Just monitor them closely to avoid dryness. Marinating helps keep them tender and juicy!
What Can I Substitute for Sweet Chili Sauce?
If you can’t find sweet chili sauce, you can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts of honey and hot sauce, or combine some soy sauce with a bit of sugar and chili flakes for a similar flavor profile.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 24 hours. If marinating overnight, remember to keep it in the refrigerator to ensure food safety.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with sides like grilled corn, jasmine rice, or a fresh salad. You can even serve it as a filling in wraps or tacos for a delicious twist!
