When I first made this Sweet and Spicy Chicken recipe, I couldn’t believe how quickly it turned into one of my favorite dishes. The combination of sweet soy sauce, tangy lime, and spicy sambal is nothing short of magical. It’s a simple recipe, but the flavor it brings to the table is impressive!
Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe will certainly stand out. If you’re looking for a meal that balances sweet and spicy flavors perfectly, this recipe is for you! After trying it, I knew I had to share it with others – trust me, you’ll love it!
Looking for more inspiration? Try our Best Bourbon Chicken Recipe for another mouthwatering dish!

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
Here are a few personal tips I’ve learned after making this Sweet & Spicy Chicken multiple times. They can really elevate the flavors and take your dish to the next level:
- Use Fresh Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice makes a huge difference compared to bottled lime juice. It enhances the chicken’s flavor and adds a burst of freshness.
- Marinate Longer: If you have time, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, making the chicken even more flavorful.
- Adjust Spiciness to Your Taste: Depending on your spice tolerance, you can tweak the amount of sambal. I love adding a little extra for that bold kick, but feel free to adjust it based on your preferences.
- Grill Over Medium Heat: A medium-high heat ensures the chicken gets that perfect char without burning. It gives you that crispy, caramelized coating, which adds to the overall experience.
- Add Extra Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover like me, don’t hesitate to add an extra clove or two for a more aromatic flavor.
Variations: Customizing Your Sweet & Spicy Chicken
This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences and flavor profiles. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Dairy-Free Option: This recipe is naturally dairy-free. However, if you’re looking for an alternative to sesame oil, you can use any neutral oil like vegetable or sunflower oil.
- Sugar-Free Version: For a sugar-free option, substitute the sugar with a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener. This will give you the same sweetness without the added calories.
- Flavor Enhancers: Add a touch of ginger to the marinade for an extra zing! You can also toss in some chili flakes for additional heat or a splash of vinegar to balance out the sweetness.
You can find your next favorite dinner by exploring our simple and satisfying chicken recipes.
How to Serve Sweet & Spicy Chicken?
Sweet & Spicy Chicken is an incredibly versatile dish and can be paired with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving ideas to help you present this dish like a pro:
- Rice: Serve the chicken with fluffy steamed white rice or jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the delicious marinade, making it the perfect companion.
- Grilled Vegetables: Add some grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus on the side. The smoky flavors from the grill pair perfectly with the chicken’s sweetness and spice.
- Salad: A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the rich, bold flavors of the chicken. You can explore our salad recipes for more ideas.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top your dish with some freshly chopped cilantro or green onions to add a pop of color and freshness. A squeeze of lime can also enhance the flavor and give it a bright finish.

How to Store Sweet & Spicy Chicken?
If you have leftovers, here’s how you can store them to keep them fresh for later:
- Refrigerating: Store any leftover Sweet & Spicy Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When reheating, be sure to warm it evenly to prevent drying out the chicken.
- Freezing: To freeze the chicken, let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Cover and heat until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet & Spicy Chicken Recipe?
Here are a few reasons why this Sweet & Spicy Chicken will quickly become your go-to recipe:
- Quick & Easy Preparation: It doesn’t take long to prepare or cook this dish, making it ideal for a busy weeknight meal.
- Versatile Flavor Profile: The combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors makes this dish loved by many, with something for everyone to enjoy.
- Customizable: You can adjust the spice level and sweetness to fit your preferences. Plus, it works well with various side dishes and sauces.
- Healthy Ingredients: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and can easily be made low-carb or sugar-free with minor adjustments.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish holds up well as leftovers, making it a great option for meal prepping for the week ahead.
Sweet & Spicy Chicken: An Irresistible Dish You Can’t Miss!
Sweet & Spicy Chicken is an absolute crowd-pleaser, with its bold flavors and ease of preparation. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, this dish is easy to execute and delivers amazing results every time.
You’ll love the combination of tender chicken, sweet soy sauce, zesty lime, and spicy sambal. Plus, it’s flexible enough to suit your dietary needs and preferences.

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Start by washing the chicken thoroughly. You want to make sure it’s clean and free from any impurities. After washing, rub the chicken pieces with fresh lime juice and crushed garlic. The lime will help tenderize the meat, while the garlic will infuse a strong flavor. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes to marinate before applying the sauce.
- In a separate bowl, combine the kecap manis (sweet soy sauce), kecap inggris (Worcestershire sauce), sambal (chili sauce), merica (pepper), minyak wijen (sesame oil), and gula (sugar). Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated, ensuring the sugar dissolves. Season with salt and broth powder to taste. This marinade is both sweet and savory, with a spicy kick depending on how much sambal you add.
- Pour the marinade over the prepared chicken, making sure each piece is fully coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to soak in. You can also marinate the chicken for a longer time if you want a deeper flavor profile, ideally in the fridge.
- Heat your grill or grilling pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken pieces onto the grill. Grill the chicken for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking on all sides. The chicken should be golden brown and fully cooked, with a slightly crispy exterior from the caramelized marinade.