Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts is a perfect high-protein, low-effort meal that’s packed with flavor! The combination of sweet and spicy chicken paired with crispy Brussels sprouts creates a delightful dish that’s suitable for various occasions. Whether you need a quick dinner after a long day or a satisfying lunch for meal prep, this recipe stands out for its ease of preparation and delicious taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep and cook time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The sweet chili sauce infuses the chicken with a mouthwatering flavor that pairs beautifully with the roasted Brussels sprouts.
• Healthy Option: With lean protein and nutritious veggies, this dish fits perfectly into a balanced diet.
• Versatile Meal Prep: Perfect for making ahead of time, it stores well and reheats beautifully for lunches throughout the week.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To make Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure success in your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This appliance cooks food quickly while giving it a crispy texture without excessive oil.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily and ensures an even coating on the chicken.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps cut the chicken and Brussels sprouts accurately for even cooking.

Ingredients

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

How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your chicken and Brussels sprouts cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix together:
Olive oil
Soy sauce
Sweet chili sauce
Rice vinegar
Garlic powder
Ground ginger
Honey (if using)

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Coat them thoroughly with the sweet chili mixture, ensuring they are evenly covered.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

While the chicken cooks, season the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add them to the air fryer basket after flipping the chicken.

Step 6: Cook the Brussels Sprouts

Cook the Brussels sprouts for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through until they are crispy and golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

Once both components are done cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve sliced chicken alongside crispy Brussels sprouts. Drizzle any remaining sweet chili sauce from the air fryer basket over them if desired.

How to Serve Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

This Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts is not only delicious but also versatile. You can pair it with various sides or enjoy it on its own for a quick meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy rice complements the sweet and spicy flavors beautifully.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad adds protein and texture while keeping it light.

As a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken and Brussels sprouts for a low-carb option.
• Tortilla Wraps: Spread avocado or hummus in a tortilla, then add the chicken and sprouts for a satisfying meal.

Topped with Extras

• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Fresh Cilantro or Green Onions: Add a sprinkle of herbs for freshness that brightens the dish.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

Perfecting this dish is easy with a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your chicken is juicy and your Brussels sprouts are crispy.

• Marinate Longer: Let the chicken marinate in the sweet chili sauce mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking for deeper flavor.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Brussels sprouts will yield better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

Complement your Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts with these delightful side dishes. Each pairing enhances the overall meal, making it even more enjoyable.

1. Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice adds a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the spicy chicken.
2. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas provides crunch and nutrients.
3. Asian Noodle Salad: Cold noodles tossed in sesame dressing bring a refreshing contrast to the hot dish.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side option.
5. Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers dressed in vinegar brighten up your plate with their refreshing taste.
6. Edamame Pods: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt offer protein-packed satisfaction alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts, avoiding common pitfalls can make a significant difference in your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken and Brussels sprouts properly can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper generously before cooking.
• Overcrowding the air fryer: Placing too much food in the air fryer at once can prevent even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary for best results.
• Not preheating the air fryer: Skipping this step may result in unevenly cooked chicken. Preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking from the start.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken or burn the Brussels sprouts. Keep an eye on them and use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Using old ingredients: Using expired or stale ingredients can affect the taste of your dish. Always check your sauces and spices for freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

• Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but they will require additional cooking time. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

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

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. You can also adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of sweet chili sauce used.

What dipping sauces pair well with this dish?

Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or a tangy vinaigrette complement this dish nicely.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it’s high in protein and keeps well in the fridge or freezer.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts is not only delicious but also versatile, making it ideal for various meals throughout the week. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or sauces to suit your taste. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!