Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken & Brussels Sprouts: A Masterclass in Caramelization.

This dish is a technical triumph of the air fryer, utilizing rapid air circulation to achieve two distinct textures simultaneously: a crispy, “fried” exterior on the chicken and a charred, nutty finish on the Brussels sprouts. By using a sweet chili glaze, you create a “sticky” finish that binds the ingredients together without the need for a heavy flour batter.

The technical secret is the staggered start. Brussels sprouts require a slightly longer cook time and higher heat to lose their bitterness and develop a sweet char, whereas chicken breast can dry out if overexposed. By timing the integration, you ensure both components reach their peak consistency at the same moment.

Ingredients

The Base

500g Chicken Breast: Cut into 2.5cm uniform cubes.
400g Brussels Sprouts: Trimmed and halved (quarter any very large ones).
2 Tablespoons Neutral Oil: (Avocado or Grapeseed oil).
1/2 Teaspoon Salt & 1/2 Teaspoon Garlic Powder.

The Sticky Sweet Chili Glaze

120ml Thai Sweet Chili Sauce.
1 Tablespoon Soy Sauce.
1 Teaspoon Rice Vinegar: (To cut the sweetness).
1 Teaspoon Sriracha: (Optional, for extra heat).
1 Teaspoon Fresh Ginger: Grated.

The Garnish

1 Tablespoon Toasted Sesame Seeds.
2 Spring Onions: Thinly sliced.

Instructions

1. Prepare and Season

In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with 1 tablespoon of oil and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, toss the chicken cubes with the remaining oil, garlic powder, and salt. Keeping them separate initially is vital for the staggered cooking process.

2. The First Roast: Brussels Sprouts

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C. Place the Brussels sprouts in the basket in a single layer. Air fry for 8 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure the flat sides of the sprouts are developing a deep brown char.

3. Add the Chicken

Move the sprouts to one side of the basket (or simply toss them together) and add the seasoned chicken cubes. Continue to air fry at 200°C for another 8 to 10 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 74°C, and the sprouts should be tender with crispy outer leaves.

4. Construct the Glaze

While the air fryer is running, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, and grated ginger in a small bowl.

5. The Sticky Finish

Once the chicken and sprouts are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the glaze over the hot ingredients and toss vigorously. The residual heat from the chicken will slightly thicken the sauce, creating a glossy, “sticky” coating that adheres to every crevice.

6. Garnish and Serve

Transfer to a serving plate and immediately top with sesame seeds and spring onions. Serve hot, preferably over a bed of jasmine rice or quinoa.

Flavor & Texture Notes

The primary sensation is sweet-savory umami. The Thai sweet chili sauce provides a mild, sugary heat that is balanced by the sharp ginger and salty soy sauce.

The texture is complex and satisfying. You receive a shattering crunch from the loose leaves of the Brussels sprouts, a tender, juicy bite from the air-fried chicken, and a tacky, viscous mouthfeel from the glaze.

Tips & Variations

The Crowding Rule: Do not overfill the air fryer basket. If the ingredients are piled on top of each other, they will steam rather than crisp. Cook in two batches if necessary.
Vegetarian Swap: Replace the chicken with a block of extra-firm tofu (pressed and cubed). Toss the tofu in a teaspoon of cornstarch before air frying for maximum crunch.¹
Extra Char: If you prefer your sprouts very dark, leave them in for an additional 2 minutes before adding the chicken.

Storage & Maintenance

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To maintain the “crispy” element, reheat in the air fryer at 180°C for 3 to 4 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the Brussels sprouts soft and the chicken rubbery.
Freezing: This dish does not freeze well; the high water content in the Brussels sprouts will cause them to become mushy upon thawing.

FAQ

Why are my Brussels sprouts bitter?

Bitterness in sprouts is often a sign of undercooking. The high heat of the air fryer is designed to caramelize the natural sugars; if they aren’t charred, they will retain their sulfurous notes.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

It is not recommended for this specific recipe. Frozen sprouts hold significant moisture and will struggle to achieve the “crispy” texture needed to stand up to the sticky sauce.

Is this dish very spicy?

No. Thai sweet chili sauce is predominantly sweet. The sriracha is optional, so you can easily control the heat level to suit your preference.

Conclusion

The Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken and Brussels Sprouts is a reliable, flavor-packed meal that maximizes the efficiency of modern kitchen technology. By utilizing a staggered cook time and a late-stage glaze, you achieve a professional-grade contrast of textures and flavors.