Save Bring a bold spark to your dinner table with Spicy Sweet Chicken Diablo, a dish that perfectly balances fiery heat with a luscious honey glaze. This vibrant stir-fry features succulent chicken thighs and a rainbow of crisp vegetables, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate. It is the ideal solution for those craving a restaurant-quality meal without the long wait.
Save Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, this American-style stir-fry uses simple pantry staples to create a sophisticated sauce. Whether you are cooking for family or meal-prepping for the week, the combination of tender chicken and snap-fresh vegetables ensures every bite is satisfyingly crunchy and savory.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces), 1 tbsp cornstarch, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Sauce: 1/3 cup honey, 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free), 2 tbsp sriracha, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp ketchup, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated).
- Vegetables: 1 red bell pepper (sliced), 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced), 1 small red onion (sliced), 1 cup sugar snap peas (trimmed).
- For Cooking & Garnish: 2 tbsp vegetable oil, 2 green onions (sliced), 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional), cooked jasmine rice (for serving).
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a bowl, toss the chicken thighs with cornstarch, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Step 2
- In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, ketchup, garlic, and ginger to make the sauce. Set aside.
- Step 3
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and just cooked through. Remove to a plate.
- Step 4
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the skillet. Add bell peppers, onion, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Step 5
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well and cook for 2–3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and everything is well coated.
- Step 6
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, over jasmine rice.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the most efficient workflow, marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. This dish keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just be sure to reheat it gently to maintain the texture of the chicken and vegetables.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily swap the chicken thighs for chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them to keep the meat tender. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the honey to 1/4 cup, or add extra vegetables like broccoli florets, carrots, or zucchini for more variety.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this Spicy Sweet Chicken Diablo piping hot over a generous bed of fluffy jasmine rice. The rice is essential for soaking up the bold, glossy sauce. Garnish the plate with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and freshly sliced green onions for a pop of color and extra texture.
Save This Spicy Sweet Chicken Diablo is more than just a quick dinner; it is a flavor-packed experience that brings excitement to any weeknight. With its perfect balance of textures and bold sauce, it is bound to become a recurring favorite in your kitchen rotation.
Recipe Guide
- → How spicy is Chicken Diablo?
The heat level is adjustable with sriracha. Using 2 tablespoons provides a medium spice that's approachable for most palates. Reduce to 1 tablespoon for mild heat or increase to 3 tablespoons for those who love extra kick.
- → Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast works well. Cut it into similar bite-sized pieces, but reduce cooking time slightly to prevent drying. Breast meat cooks faster than thighs, so watch closely during the initial sear.
- → What vegetables work best in this dish?
Bell peppers, red onion, and snap peas provide color and crunch. Broccoli florets, carrots, zucchini, or baby corn also work wonderfully. Aim for vegetables that cook quickly and maintain some texture.
- → How do I make this gluten-free?
Substitute tamari for the soy sauce. All other ingredients, including sriracha and cornstarch, are naturally gluten-free. Always check labels to confirm your specific brands meet dietary needs.
- → Can the sauce be made ahead?
Absolutely. Whisk the sauce ingredients together up to 3 days in advance and store in the refrigerator. You can also coat the chicken with cornstarch ahead of time, but cook it within 24 hours for best texture.
- → What rice pairs best with this dish?
Jasmine rice is ideal with its floral aroma and slight sweetness that complements the sauce. Basmati or medium-grain white rice also work well. For whole grain options, brown rice adds nuttiness though it changes the flavor profile slightly.