Yield: 2 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Estimated Calories: ~700 per serving
Protein: ~42g per serving
Carbs: ~65g per serving
Fat: ~22g per serving
Ingredients
Chicken
1 lb chicken thighs
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
Sauce
3 Tbsp sweet chili sauce
1 Tbsp soy sauce
Rice
1 cup jasmine rice
Optional Sesame seeds, Green Onions
Directions
Step 1 – Start with the Rice
Cook your rice using your standard method and keep it covered once it’s done. Let it rest before fluffing so the texture stays clean and separate.
This keeps your base consistent so the upgrade actually stands out.
Step 2 – Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry and cut into even pieces if needed. Season lightly with garlic powder so every piece gets some flavor.
Even sizing keeps everything cooking at the same pace and prevents dry spots.
Step 3 – Heat the Pan Properly
Place your pan over medium-high heat and give it a full minute to heat up before adding oil. Once the oil is hot, you’re ready to go.
Starting with proper heat is what gives you that initial sear instead of steaming.
Step 4 – Build the Sear
Add the chicken and spread it out so each piece touches the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for 5–6 minutes until the bottom develops a golden crust.
While it cooks, knock out 15–20 pushups. No reason to just stand there.
Step 5 – Flip and Finish Cooking
Flip the chicken and cook the second side until fully done. Let it build color again instead of moving it around too much.
You want both sides to have some structure before adding sauce.
Step 6 – Add the Sauce
Lower the heat slightly and add sweet chili sauce and soy sauce directly into the pan. Toss the chicken so everything gets coated evenly.
Make sure every piece gets covered so the flavor stays consistent.
Step 7 – Let It Tighten Up
Let the sauce cook for 1–2 minutes until it thickens and sticks to the chicken. It should look glossy and slightly sticky, not watery.
If it’s still thin, give it another 30 seconds and it’ll come together.
Step 8 – Plate and Finish
Serve over rice and spoon extra sauce over the top. Keep it layered instead of mixing everything immediately.
This one hits every time, so don’t overthink it once it’s done.
