Slow Cooker Sweet Chili Chicken

Update : February 6, 2026

Why Make This Recipe

Slow Cooker Sweet Chili Chicken is a simple and delicious meal that fits perfectly into a busy schedule. The sweet and tangy flavors make it a favorite for family dinners or gatherings. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this dish allows you to enjoy tender chicken with vibrant vegetables without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Make Slow Cooker Sweet Chili Chicken

Ingredients:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup sweet chili sauce
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 small onion, sliced
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooked rice (for serving)

Directions:

Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken thighs or breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.
Add Vegetables: Layer the sliced red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and onion on top of the chicken in the slow cooker.
Combine and Cook: Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Thicken the Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce. Cover and cook on high for the remaining 30 minutes.
Serve: Once the sauce has thickened, serve the sweet chili chicken over cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sweet Chili Chicken

Serve this dish hot, and pair it with fluffy cooked rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnishing with green onions and sesame seeds adds a nice touch and extra flavor. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Slow Cooker Sweet Chili Chicken

To store leftovers, let the sweet chili chicken cool to room temperature. Then place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Sweet Chili Chicken

For added heat, include some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños in the sauce.
Experiment with different vegetables like broccoli or snap peas, which can also complement the dish well.
If you want a sweeter sauce, add a little more honey to your mixture.

Variation

For a lighter version, you can use skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Additionally, you can substitute the sweet chili sauce with a homemade sauce using chili paste, sugar, and vinegar if desired.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may take longer to cook. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

2. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients if your slow cooker has enough capacity. Adjust the cooking time as needed, but the original times should work fine for thicker quantities.

3. What can I use instead of sweet chili sauce?
If you don’t have sweet chili sauce, try a mix of ketchup, honey, and a bit of sriracha for a similar flavor.