Introduction

Spicy Sweet Chicken Diablo is a vibrant and flavorful stir-fry combining tender chicken thighs with colorful bell peppers in a luscious spicy-sweet sauce. This dish balances heat and sweetness perfectly, making it a delightful meal to enjoy any day of the week.

Spicy Sweet Chicken Diablo Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 large red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sriracha (or more, to taste)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon sriracha (adjust for spice preference), 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil.
Step 2: Mix well to coat the chicken evenly, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 3 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, remaining 2 1/2 teaspoons sriracha, and 2 tablespoons water. Set aside.
Step 4: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Step 5: Add the marinated chicken in a single layer, cooking in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
Step 6: Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through; remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 7: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet, then sauté onion, red and yellow bell peppers, garlic, and ginger for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp, stirring occasionally.
Step 8: Return the chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
Step 9: Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture, bringing it to a simmer over medium heat.
Step 10: Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Step 11: Serve the Spicy Sweet Chicken Diablo hot over cooked rice.
Step 12: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before enjoying.

Tips & Variations

For a milder dish, reduce the sriracha or substitute with a sweet chili sauce.
Try adding snap peas or broccoli florets for extra crunch and color.
Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
Use chicken breast instead of thighs if preferred, though thighs stay juicier.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water during reheating can help restore sauce consistency.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of protein?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or beef strips. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the protein is cooked properly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative instead of regular soy sauce. Most other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.