Description
This bold and flavorful recipe features Sweet Chili Sauce as the star ingredient, combining tender protein and fresh vegetables in a quick, easy dish with a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors. Ideal for weeknight dinners or snacks, it is versatile, quick to prepare, and enjoyable for the whole family with plant-based options included.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 200g firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 green onions, chopped (separate some for garnish)
Sauces and Seasonings
- 1/4 cup Sweet Chili Sauce (natural)
- 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
- 1 tbsp plant-based dairy/cheese (optional, for creaminess)
- Salt, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for sautéing
Instructions
- Prepare the Protein: Cut chicken breasts or tofu into bite-sized pieces. Marinate them in a mixture of Sweet Chili Sauce (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and minced garlic for at least 15 minutes to infuse deep flavor and tenderize the protein.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add sliced bell peppers and most of the green onions. Sauté until slightly tender but still crisp to maintain vibrant color and texture.
- Cook the Protein: Add the marinated chicken or tofu to the pan. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, allowing the Sweet Chili Sauce (natural) to caramelize and form a flavorful glaze.
- Combine and Simmer: Pour in additional Sweet Chili Sauce (natural) and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Stir to combine and simmer briefly. Add the natural gelling agent as needed to slightly thicken the sauce for glazing or dipping.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with the remaining chopped green onions and optional plant-based dairy/cheese for creaminess. Serve hot with rice, noodles, or fresh greens for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic and vibrant vegetables to maximize natural flavors.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more apple cider vinegar or a touch of maple syrup.
- Marinate protein for at least 30 minutes for enhanced taste.
- Adjust heat by adding or reducing chili flakes according to preference.
- Use natural gelling agent sparingly to thicken sauce for dips and glazes.
- Replace vegetarian Worcestershire sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free variations.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Sweet Chili Sauce, spicy, sweet, tangy, chicken, tofu, quick recipe, plant-based, gluten free, weeknight dinner