Sweet & Spicy Chili Chicken (Ayam Cili Inspired)
A flavorful Sweet & Spicy Chili Chicken, inspired by Ayam Cili, combining tender chicken, rich tomato-based sauce, and a touch of heat. Perfect with Roti Prata or rice!
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp oil
- ½ cup diced onion
- 1 tbsp grated garlic
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 ½ cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp palm sugar or brown sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- 2 eggs lightly beaten
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the grated garlic and ginger, then sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chili flakes and five-spice powder, stirring for another 30 seconds to release their aroma.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken pieces to the pan. Sear for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Pour in the fish sauce, mix well, and let it cook for another 30 seconds to enhance the umami flavor.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, ketchup, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, lime zest, palm sugar, cornstarch, and water. Pour the mixture into the pan, stirring well to coat the chicken. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and develop deep flavors.
- Slowly drizzle the lightly beaten eggs into the pan while gently stirring to create soft, delicate egg ribbons. Let it cook for another 2 minutes until the eggs are set. Stir in the chopped cilantro just before serving to add freshness.
- Serve hot with Roti Prata or steamed rice. Garnish with extra lime wedges and fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
Notes
Adjusting Spice Levels – Reduce or increase the chili flakes based on your heat preference.
Egg Ribbons Technique – Pour the beaten eggs slowly while stirring gently for soft, delicate strands.
Sauce Thickness – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water; if too thin, let it simmer longer.
Balancing Flavors – The lime juice adds brightness, so adjust it to taste before serving.
Nutrition
Serving: 250gCalories: 335kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 27gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 190mgSodium: 1306mgPotassium: 724mgFiber: 2gSugar: 17gVitamin A: 695IUVitamin C: 16mgCalcium: 73mgIron: 3mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!