These sweet chili glazed Thai boneless chicken thighs are a tasty treat! The chicken is juicy and coated in a sticky, sweet sauce that gives it a nice kick. Perfect for any dinner!
Whenever I make these, my family can’t wait to dig in. I love serving them with rice to soak up all that yummy sauce. It really makes for a fun meal! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Chicken Thighs: These are great for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender when grilled. If you’re looking for a lighter option, skinless chicken breasts work too, but they might require careful grilling to avoid drying out.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is the star that adds sweetness and spice. If you want a homemade version, mix 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of vinegar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a healthier option, look for low-sugar varieties or use honey mixed with a little hot sauce.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds saltiness, but low-sodium soy sauce is a better choice if you’re watching your salt intake. You can also use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos as a soy-free alternative.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh is best! They bring a unique flavor that powdered versions can’t match. If you’re in a pinch, use pre-minced jars. But I personally prefer the fresher taste from using whole cloves.
Lime Juice: This brightens up the dish beautifully. If you don’t have fresh limes, bottled juice works in a pinch. Just be mindful of the acidity; start with a little and adjust to taste.
How Do You Get Chicken Thighs Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling can be tricky, especially when it comes to chicken thighs. The key is to cook them over medium-high heat to get that nice char while keeping them juicy inside. Here’s how:
- Before grilling, make sure to marinate the chicken to infuse flavor. A minimum of 30 minutes works, but soaking it for a few hours really helps.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan. You want it hot so that the chicken sears without sticking.
- When placing the chicken on the grill, let it be! Resist the urge to move it around too much—it forms a better crust that way.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 165°F (75°C) is safe and ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling to help retain moisture. Resting for 5-10 minutes seals in the juiciness.
Sweet Chili Glazed Thai Boneless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
- Cucumber slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. Grilling will take another 15 minutes. So in total, you’ll need around 55 minutes to enjoy these tasty chicken thighs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, add the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended and smooth. This will be your flavorful marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your boneless chicken thighs and place them in the marinade. Make sure to coat each piece well with the sauce. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit longer will give you even better flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, take the chicken thighs out of the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have a lovely glaze and char!
4. Let It Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps to lock in the juices. Once rested, slice the chicken thighs and serve them over a bed of warm cooked jasmine rice. Finish off your dish with some refreshing cucumber slices on the side. Enjoy your Sweet Chili Glazed Thai Boneless Chicken Thighs!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs! Just keep in mind that chicken breasts are leaner and may dry out more quickly, so reduce grilling time to about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Consider marinating for a shorter time since breasts can absorb flavors differently.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you’d like to adjust the spice level, you can easily modify the sweet chili sauce by choosing a spicy version or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. If you prefer it milder, mix some honey with regular sweet chili sauce to soften the heat.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Sweet Chili Sauce?
No sweet chili sauce? You can make a quick substitute! Mix equal parts honey and ketchup, then stir in a bit of rice vinegar and chili flakes to taste. This will create a sweet and tangy sauce that works well in the recipe.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, heat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Enjoy it over fresh rice or in a salad for a delightful twist!
