Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe: Homemade, Easy, and Better Than Store-Bought

Sweet chili sauce recipe—those four words bring me straight back to my roots. My passion for food began in my family’s kitchen, where the aroma of garlic sizzling in oil and pots simmering on the stove shaped my love for bold, homemade flavors. Surrounded by tradition and inspired by experimentation, I learned that food isn’t just nourishment—it’s a memory waiting to be made.

Over the years, I’ve cooked across cultures and continents, but one sauce has stayed close to my heart: a homemade sweet chili sauce. Born from my travels in Thailand and refined through years of kitchen testing, this sweet chili sauce recipe captures everything I love about food—balance, depth, and versatility.

And here’s the best part: it’s ridiculously easy to make. No preservatives. No mystery ingredients. Just real, fresh flavors you control. Whether you’re pairing it with crispy chicken, tossing it with noodles, or using it as a marinade, this sauce delivers a punch of sweet, savory, tangy heat that bottled versions can’t touch.

What Is Sweet Chili Sauce?

Origin and Cultural Background (Thai Influence)

The roots of sweet chili sauce trace back to Thailand, where it’s known as “nam chim kai”—a staple dipping sauce served with everything from spring rolls to grilled meats. This flavorful condiment gained global popularity for its vibrant color, balanced flavor, and incredible versatility. In Thai cuisine, balance is everything: sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and umami all play a role in even the simplest sauce. That’s exactly what makes this sweet chili sauce recipe so iconic and beloved.

Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe

"Sweet chili sauce recipe made easy! This quick, homemade version is spicy, sweet, and better than store-bought. Try it today

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Ingredients

  

• ⅓ cup rice vinegar
• ⅓ cup water
• ⅓ cup + 2 tbsp sugar or erythritol
• 1 tbsp rice wine
• 1 tbsp sambal oelek or chili flakes
• 1½ tsp garlic
• 1 tsp ginger
• 1 tsp soy or tamari
• 2 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water

Instructions

 

• Combine all ingredients except cornstarch in saucepan
• Bring to a boil, then add slurry
• Simmer for 30–60 sec until thick
• Cool, store in airtight jar

Keyword Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe

Unlike Western condiments, sweet chili sauce is designed to elevate a dish, not just coat it. It plays a starring role in the meal, adding a delightful contrast to fried or grilled items. While it originated in Southeast Asia, variations of this recipe now appear in Chinese, Vietnamese, Filipino, and American fusion cuisine.

If you’re exploring new takes on chili-based condiments beyond this homemade sweet chili sauce recipe, learn more about bold Latin flavors with our guajillo sauce—a must-try!

Common Uses in Everyday Cooking

Whether you’re making dinner on a busy weeknight or prepping for a backyard BBQ, this sweet chili sauce recipe fits effortlessly into any menu. Its bold flavor makes it one of the most versatile sauces in your kitchen. Here’s how people commonly use it:

• Dipping Sauce – Perfect for egg rolls, dumplings, wontons, or even French fries.
• Glaze for Meats – Brush it on grilled chicken, pork, or shrimp during the final minutes of cooking.
• Marinade Starter – Blend with soy sauce and garlic for a delicious meat marinade.
• Noodle & Rice Bowls – Mix it into sauces for a spicy-sweet twist on bowls.
• Burger or Sandwich Condiment – Add it to mayo or aioli for a bold, flavorful spread.
• Pizza Drizzle – Some even drizzle it over chicken pizzas for a sweet kick!

Sweet Chili Sauce Ingredients Breakdown

Essential Ingredients in a Classic Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe

Every great sweet chili sauce recipe starts with just a handful of pantry staples. But don’t let the simplicity fool you—the magic is in the balance of flavors. Each ingredient plays a critical role in achieving that perfect sweet, spicy, tangy blend that defines this Thai-inspired sauce.

Here’s what goes into the base recipe:

This combination delivers the signature sweet chili sauce flavor that’s bold, yet balanced. Want to try a slightly tangier profile? Add a splash of lime juice or rice wine. Need it spicier? Up the sambal oelek or toss in a pinch of chili flakes.

Ingredient Substitutes and Customization Tips

One of the best things about making a homemade sweet chili sauce recipe is the freedom to tailor it to your taste, dietary needs, or ingredient availability. Let’s examine how you can modify it:

Gluten-Free

Use tamari instead of soy sauce, as it is a gluten-free fermented soy option.. Same deep umami flavor—no gluten attached.

Sugar-Free Option

Substitute cane sugar with erythritol, Swerve, or your favorite keto-friendly granular sweetener. Use the same measurement ratio for most blends.

No Sambal Oelek?

No worries. Use dried red chili flakes instead. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust for your preferred heat level. Be cautious though—flakes can be more intense.

Coloring Choices

Want that gorgeous red hue without artificial coloring? Use beet powder, paprika extract, or a touch of tomato paste for natural color and added flavor.

Rice Wine Substitute

If rice wine isn’t on hand, go for dry sherry or even a splash of apple cider vinegar for that mild tang.

This makes your sweet chili sauce recipe adaptable whether you’re keto, vegan, gluten-free, or just working with what’s in the pantry.

How to Make Sweet Chili Sauce at Home

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Easiest Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe

This sweet chili sauce recipe is so easy, you’ll wonder why you ever bought it bottled. With just a saucepan and some basic pantry ingredients, you’ll have a bold, flavorful sauce in under 15 minutes. It’s quick, foolproof, and better than anything off the shelf.

This isn’t just another sauce—it’s the go-to sweet chili sauce recipe you’ll rely on for everything from meal prep to last-minute entertaining.

Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• ⅓ cup rice vinegar
• ⅓ cup water
• ⅓ cup + 2 tablespoons cane sugar (or erythritol for sugar-free)
• 1 tablespoon rice wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 tablespoon sambal oelek (or 1–2 tsp chili flakes for more heat)
• 1½ teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon tamari or soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon water
• Optional: 1–2 drops of natural red food coloring

Instructions:

1. Combine the base – In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine rice vinegar, water, sugar, rice wine, sambal oelek (or chili flakes), garlic, ginger, and tamari/soy sauce. This is where the flavor foundation of your sweet chili sauce recipe comes to life.

1. Bring to a boil – Stir regularly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. The sugar should fully dissolve into the liquid, forming the core syrupy structure of the sauce.

1. Thicken it up – Add the cornstarch slurry while stirring constantly. Let it simmer for another 30–60 seconds until it thickens slightly. Don’t worry if it seems thin—it thickens more as it cools.
2. Cool and store – Remove from heat, let it cool completely, then transfer to a sterilized glass jar. Store in the fridge for up to 1 week. This homemade sweet chili sauce recipe yields about 1 cup—perfect for one dish or several meals.

Want a thicker consistency for dipping? Add ½ teaspoon more cornstarch to the slurry. Prefer extra spicy? Toss in more sambal oelek or a dash of cayenne.

This version of the sweet chili sauce recipe is endlessly adjustable. Whether you’re hosting a party or batch-prepping sauces for the week, it’s one of the most flexible condiments in your toolkit.

Tips for Perfecting Texture, Taste, and Heat Level

The real beauty of this homemade sweet chili sauce recipe is how easy it is to customize for any meal or taste preference. These tips ensure you’ll always get it just right.

Texture Tips

• Don’t overcook after adding the cornstarch. Simmer just until it coats the spoon.
• If it turns jelly-like after cooling, gently warm and stir until smooth again.

Taste Adjustment Tips

• Too sour? Add more sugar or a pinch of honey.
• Too sweet? Add a bit more vinegar to rebalance.
• Too mild? Increase the sambal oelek or red pepper flakes.
• Too salty? Switch to low-sodium tamari or dilute with a bit of water.

Presentation Tips

• Add a drop of natural red food coloring (beet or paprika-based) to enhance visual appeal.
• Serve your sweet chili sauce recipe in a glass jar or dipping bowl for a clean, elegant look.

Once you try this sweet chili sauce recipe, it’s hard to go back to bottled. From stir-fries to grilled meats, it’s your new secret weapon.

Looking for spicy inspiration beyond Thai-style? Check out our classic chili recipe for a hearty, slow-cooked American twist.

Variations of the Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe

Sugar-Free, Vegan, and Gluten-Free Options

The beauty of a homemade sweet chili sauce recipe is how easily it adapts to your dietary needs without losing flavor. Here’s how to make it fit any lifestyle:

Sugar-Free Version

Whether you’re keto, diabetic, or just cutting back, replacing cane sugar is simple. Use erythritol, Swerve, or monk fruit sweetener instead. Keep the same measurements as you would for sugar, and the result will still have that sweet, sticky consistency.

Gluten-Free Option

Swap out soy sauce for tamari, which is fermented without wheat. It still gives you that deep umami without the gluten.

Vegan Option

Most standard recipes are already vegan, but always double-check your chili paste (like sambal oelek) for shrimp or anchovy-based flavorings. Look for vegan-certified brands or use red chili flakes.

Want even more flexibility? Try adding fruit purée (like mango or pineapple) for a naturally sweet, vegan twist.

Grandma’s Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe

This version comes from the heart. Grandma’s sweet chili sauce recipe often leans toward the tomato-based variety, common in older North American kitchens. Here’s what makes it different:

• Tomatoes or tomato paste added for a richer, darker base
• Less vinegar, more sugar—often with a touch of molasses
• Mild red chili flakes or even ground chili powder instead of paste
• Simmered longer for a deeper, mellow flavor

It’s perfect for canning and long-term storage, and it tastes amazing with meatloaf, grilled chicken, or even roasted vegetables.

Jamie Oliver’s Sweet Chilli Sauce Twist

Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver adds his signature twist to sweet chili sauce using fresh ingredients and bold flavor layering. His version often includes:

• Fresh red chilies and lime zest
• A higher ratio of fresh garlic and ginger
• Light soy sauce and demerara sugar for complexity
• Sometimes finished with fish sauce for depth (optional)

It’s rustic, punchy, and pairs perfectly with roasted meats or as a base for dipping sauces. Desire that rich sweetness paired with a citrusy twist? Jamie’s style is worth recreating.

Panlasang Pinoy’s Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe

In the Filipino kitchen, sweet chili sauce leans a little sweeter and less tangy, often used in dishes like lumpia, fried tilapia, or even barbecue skewers. A typical Panlasang Pinoy sweet chili sauce recipe may feature:

• More sugar, less vinegar
• Banana ketchup (a uniquely Filipino ingredient) for added sweetness
• A touch of calamansi juice (Filipino lime)
• Garlic and chili oil for aromatics

This version is ideal for pairing with crispy fried foods and grilled street fare. It’s a delicious Southeast Asian twist that leans tropical and bright.

Sweet Chili Sauce for Chicken Lovers

If you’re using your sweet chili sauce recipe for chicken, here are a few quick-serving ideas:

No matter how you serve it, chicken and sweet chili sauce are a match made in culinary heaven.

Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe for Canning

How to Can Sweet Chili Sauce Safely at Home

Preserving your homemade sweet chili sauce recipe is a fantastic way to always have this versatile condiment on hand—without worrying about additives or expiration dates from store-bought jars. Canning lets you scale up your batch and enjoy your sauce for months to come.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to safely canning sweet chili sauce at home:

1. Prepare the Sauce
Make your favorite sweet chili sauce recipe and allow it to simmer until it reaches your desired consistency. Once it’s ready, remove it from the heat and keep it hot.

2. Sterilize the Jars
Rinse mason jars, lids, and bands with hot soapy water. Then, boil them for 10 minutes to sterilize. Place them upside down on a clean towel to air-dry.

3. Fill the Jars
With the jars still heated, fill them with the warm sauce using a funnel, leaving around ¼ inch of space at the top. Use a clean damp cloth to wipe the rims for a proper seal.

4. Seal and Process
Place the lids and bands on the jars. Secure the bands tightly but not overly firm. Process in a boiling water bath for 10–15 minutes depending on jar size and elevation.

5. Cool and Store
Remove the jars with care and let them sit for 12–24 hours to cool down. Ensure the seals are intact by checking that they don’t flex under pressure. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark area.

Don’t miss our hot dog chili for another freezer- or can-friendly sauce perfect for batch cooking.

Shelf Life, Sterilization, and Storage Tips

To can a sweet chili sauce recipe, one must focus on both safety and the preservation of freshness.. Here are extra tips to extend shelf life and ensure quality:

 Sterilization Tips

• It’s important to sterilize both jars and lids before using them, even if they have never been used before.
• Never reuse old canning lids—buy new ones to ensure safe sealing.

 Storage Tips

• Store canned jars in a cool, dark pantry or cupboard away from sunlight.
• Once opened, refrigerate immediately and consume within 1–2 weeks.
• Label your jars with the date so you always know how fresh they are.

 Spoilage Warning Signs

• Lid flexes or pops when pressed.
• Mold or bubbling inside.
• Odd smell when opened.
• If in doubt, throw it out.

This sweet chili sauce recipe is safe to can thanks to its acidity (vinegar) and sugar content, both of which act as natural preservatives when properly sealed. You can even scale the recipe up 2x or 3x for larger batches.

Looking for something even bolder to preserve? Check out our habanero chili sauce recipe that’s perfect for small-batch canning too.

Best Ways to Use Sweet Chili Sauce

Sweet Chili Sauce with Chicken and Other Proteins

One of the most popular uses for this sweet chili sauce recipe is pairing it with chicken. Its sweet, tangy heat complements both white and dark meat, whether fried, grilled, or roasted. It’s a go-to glaze, dipping sauce, and marinade that elevates your protein game.

 Best Chicken Pairings:

• Sweet Chili Chicken Wings – Toss freshly fried or baked wings in warm sauce for a sticky, spicy finish.
• Grilled Chicken Thighs – Baste with sauce during the last 5 minutes of grilling for charred caramelization.
• Stir-Fried Chicken – Add during the final toss in the wok for bold flavor.
• Chicken Tenders – Serve as a dipping sauce alongside fries or slaw.

But don’t stop at poultry! This sweet chili sauce recipe is just as amazing with:

Beyond chicken, this homemade sweet chili sauce recipe can be used in dozens of dishes. Here are some popular ways to make the most of every drop:

Appetizers & Snacks

• Spring rolls, egg rolls, or gyoza
• Fried wontons or shrimp tempura
• Mozzarella sticks or fried cauliflower bites

As a Marinade

Blend the sauce with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for an outstanding marinade. Perfect for:

• Chicken skewers
• Pork ribs
• Tofu cubes
• Grilled veggies

Salad Dressings & Bowls

Whisk with sesame oil, lime juice, and rice vinegar to create a bold dressing for:

• Thai noodle salads
• Quinoa bowls
• Crunchy cabbage slaws

Pizza & Sandwiches

Yes, really! Add a flavorful punch to your meals with this sweet chili sauce recipe:

• Grilled cheese sandwiches
• Chicken wraps
• Pizza with grilled chicken and red onion

Quick Dips

Mix equal parts sweet chili sauce and mayo or Greek yogurt for a quick dip with:

• Fries
• Sweet potato wedges
• Chicken nuggets
• Pita chips

For a rich, creamy balance, combine with cream cheese as a base for layered party dips.

Storing & Preserving Homemade Sweet Chili Sauce

Fridge, Freezer, and Pantry Storage Options

One of the many advantages of making your own sweet chili sauce recipe is the ability to control not just the flavor—but also the freshness. With the right storage methods, you can enjoy your sauce for weeks (or even months) without losing its signature kick.

Refrigerator Storage (Best for Short-Term Use)

Once your sauce has cooled completely, transfer it into a clean, airtight glass jar or bottle.

• Storage Time: Up to 1 week
• Container Tip: Use a sterilized jar with a tight seal
• Shelf Position: Keep it near the back where temperatures are most consistent
• Bonus Tip: Label with the date so you don’t forget when it was made

Freezer Storage (Best for Long-Term Use)

Yes, you can freeze your homemade sweet chili sauce recipe—just be aware the texture may change slightly.

• Freeze in small portions (ice cube trays work great!)
• Once frozen, transfer cubes into a zip-lock bag
• To use, thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave gently, then stir

Want another freezer-friendly recipe idea? Don’t miss our carne adovada slow cooker recipe that stores and reheats beautifully.

How Long It Lasts and How to Reheat Properly

Shelf Life Summary

• Unopened Canned Sauce: 6–12 months in pantry
• Opened Canned or Homemade Sauce: 1 week in the fridge
• Frozen Sauce: Up to 3 months

Always check for signs of spoilage: mold, bubbling, strange smell, or unusual color changes mean it’s time to toss it out.

Reheating Tips

• Microwave: Use 10–15 second intervals; stir between each
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickened too much

Never boil or reheat aggressively—it can alter the flavor and burn the sugars.

If your sauce has separated slightly after storage, don’t panic. Just shake the jar or stir vigorously—it’ll come back to life.

Looking for another bold, preservable option? Check out our green onion kimchi recipe for fermented flavor with serious shelf life.

Conclusion: Why This Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe Belongs in Every Kitchen

From its Thai-inspired origins to its endless versatility, this sweet chili sauce recipe is more than just a condiment—it’s a flavor powerhouse you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again. Whether you like it mild, fiery, sugar-free, or jam-packed with garlic and ginger, this homemade version puts you in control.

It’s quick to make, easy to store, safe to can, and adapts effortlessly to your taste. Use it with chicken, tofu, shrimp, salads, or simply as a dipping sauce. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Looking for more ways to fire up your flavor? Don’t miss our mango habanero hot sauce recipe for a tropical twist that packs serious heat.

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