Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs with a sticky glaze served on white rice, garnished with cucumber slices and herbs.

Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Aneta
  • Total Time: 40 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs are tender, juicy, and glazed in a bold, sticky sauce that’s sweet, savory, and just a little spicy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or to impress guests, this easy recipe comes together in under 45 minutes and pairs beautifully with jasmine rice or fresh veggies!


Ingredients

Scale
  • Chicken Thighs (bone-in or boneless) – 2 lbs (about 6-8 thighs)

  • 2 tbsp avocado oil

  • 1 tsp lemon pepper

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

Sticky Sweet Chili Glaze:

  • ½ cup sweet chili sauce

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

  • 1 tsp sesame oil

Optional Garnishes:

  • Sesame seeds

  • Sliced red chili

  • Chopped fresh cilantro


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven or Air Fryer

    • Preheat your oven or air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Prepare Chicken Thighs

    • Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps crisp the skin.

  3. Season the Chicken

    • In a small bowl, mix avocado oil, lemon pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

    • Rub seasoning all over chicken thighs until evenly coated.

  4. Air Fry or Roast

    • Air Fryer: Place thighs skin side down. Cook at 375°F for 15 minutes.

    • Oven: Line a baking sheet with parchment. Roast skin side down at 400°F for 20 minutes. Flip and roast an additional 10 minutes.

  5. Make the Glaze

    • In a bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, lemon juice, and sesame oil.

  6. Baste with Glaze

    • Brush glaze over chicken multiple times while cooking, at least 3 times.

    • Cook an additional 10 minutes or until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

  7. Broil (Optional)

    • For extra caramelization, broil for 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.

  8. Serve

    • Let chicken rest a few minutes. Serve over jasmine rice or veggies. Garnish as desired. Enjoy!

Notes

Adjust spice by adding sriracha or crushed red pepper to the glaze.
Works well with chicken breasts—just reduce cook time to avoid drying out.
Pat chicken dry for crispy skin magic.
Leftovers keep well for 3 days in the fridge and reheat beautifully in the air fryer.

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 mins
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Oven or Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 390 kcal
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 780 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 130 mg