If you’re craving something bold, fresh, and satisfying, you’re going to fall in love with this Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Fried Rice with Crispy Onions. It’s got everything you want in a single pan: tender, juicy chicken, perfectly cooked jasmine rice, sweet heat from the chili sauce, zesty lime brightness, and a crown of golden, crunchy onions that take the dish over the top. This is not your average fried rice—it’s a Southeast Asian-inspired flavor bomb perfect for weeknights or when you want something a little extra without a ton of effort.

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a family-friendly dinner, a college student cooking for roommates, or a home chef who loves a good one-pan meal with gourmet flair, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s highly customizable, freezer-friendly, and a fantastic way to use up leftover rice or veggies from your fridge.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes if your rice is pre-cooked.
• Layered Flavors: The sweet chili sauce, fresh lime, and aromatic garlic create a beautiful balance of sweet, sour, and savory.
• Crispy Onion Topping: The crispy onions bring texture, flavor, and a restaurant-style finish.
• Customizable: Swap in shrimp, tofu, or add more veggies to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Stores and reheats well for a delicious lunch or dinner the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this restaurant-quality fried rice at home:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breast or thighs, diced
• 3 cups cooked and chilled jasmine or basmati rice (day-old rice works best)
• 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
• Juice and zest of 1 lime
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas or mixed veggies
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Crispy Onion Topping:

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced into rings
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• Oil for frying
• Pinch of salt

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Deep frying pan or pot (for crispy onions)
• Slotted spoon or tongs
• Large skillet or wok (for stir-frying)
• Mixing bowls
• Paper towels
• Cutting board & knife
• Citrus zester or grater
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Make the Crispy Onions

Start by heating oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Toss the onion rings in flour and shake off the excess. Fry them in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp. Drain them on paper towels and sprinkle with salt. Set aside. These will be your delicious finishing touch.

Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan when frying or the onions won’t crisp up evenly.

2. Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.

Shortcut: Buy pre-diced chicken or use rotisserie chicken to save time.

3. Cook the Veggies & Garlic

In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the peas or mixed veggies and cook for another 2 minutes until everything is fragrant and vibrant.

4. Bring It All Together

Add the chilled rice, cooked chicken, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and zest to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let everything heat through, about 3–5 minutes.

Note: Break up any rice clumps gently with your spatula to ensure even distribution of the sauce.

5. Finish and Serve

Toss in the sliced green onions right before serving. Plate the rice and top each portion generously with the crispy fried onions for that irresistible crunch.

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? Lucky you.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water.
• Crispy Onions: Store separately in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them crunchy.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

Make this dish your own with these easy swaps:

• Protein Swap: Use shrimp, tofu, or even leftover pork.
• Vegan Version: Swap the chicken for crispy tofu and use a vegan chili sauce.
• Extra Veggies: Add snap peas, baby corn, shredded carrots, or edamame for extra nutrition.
• Heat Boost: Add Sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes if you like things spicy.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or cashews on top along with the crispy onions.

Suggested Pairings

Looking to round out your meal? Try these ideas:

• Drink Pairing: Pair with Thai iced tea, coconut water, or a citrusy sparkling drink.
• Side Dish: Serve with a simple cucumber salad or steamed edamame.
• Dessert: Follow with mango sticky rice or coconut sorbet for a tropical twist.

FAQ: Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Fried Rice

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is ideal for meal prep. Make it up to 3 days ahead and store in the fridge. Just wait to add the crispy onions until serving so they stay crunchy.

What’s the best rice to use?

Jasmine or basmati rice works best. Leftover, chilled rice is ideal because it’s less sticky and fries better.

Can I skip the crispy onions?

While they add a great texture and flavor, you can skip them if short on time. Try topping with store-bought fried shallots or crispy garlic chips as an alternative.

Is sweet chili sauce very spicy?

Not at all. It’s more sweet than spicy with a mild kick. Great for kids and spice-sensitive eaters.

How do I zest a lime without a zester?

Use the fine side of a box grater, or carefully peel the lime and mince the peel finely. Just avoid the bitter white pith.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Fried Rice with Crispy Onions is everything a perfect weeknight dinner should be—fast, flavorful, and fun. It hits all the right notes: savory, sweet, zesty, and crunchy. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable, perfect for clearing out your fridge, and guaranteed to win over even picky eaters.

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Happy cooking! 🍽️✨