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Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl

Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl: Your New Weeknight Favorite

Delight in a Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl featuring tender chicken in a creamy coconut sauce over fluffy rice, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Thai, Tropical
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs Tender and juicy; swap for chicken breast or use tofu for a vegetarian option.
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk Gives the dish its creamy, rich flavor; light coconut milk can reduce calories.
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce Adds depth and umami; use tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice Brightens the dish; lemon juice can be substituted if needed.
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar Sweetens and balances flavors; coconut sugar offers a tropical twist.
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger Adds aromatic warmth; ground ginger can be a smaller substitute.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Essential for depth and savoriness in the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes Provides heat; adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric For added color and earthiness; omit if unavailable.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander Introduces a hint of citrusy brightness; cumin can be used instead.
For Cooking
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Used for cooking the chicken; any cooking oil will do.
  • Salt and pepper Basic seasoning to enhance flavor.
For the Rice
  • 2 cups long-grain white rice (jasmine or basmati) Serves as a tasty base; quinoa or cauliflower rice can be alternatives.
  • 3 cups water Necessary for cooking the rice.
For Pickled Vegetables
  • 1 cup thinly sliced carrots and cucumber Adds crunch and freshness; feel free to substitute with your favorite veggies.
  • 1/2 cup rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Garnishing
  • Chopped fresh cilantro Add flavor, crunch, and spice.
  • toasted sesame seeds Add flavor, crunch, and spice.
  • sliced green onions Add flavor, crunch, and spice.
  • lime wedges Add flavor, crunch, and spice.
  • Sriracha Add flavor, crunch, and spice.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Pot
  • Medium bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the full-fat coconut milk, low-sodium soy sauce, fresh lime juice, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, ground turmeric, and ground coriander until well combined. Set aside.
  2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage for flavor. Place the seasoned thighs into the bowl with the prepared marinade. Cover and allow to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, up to overnight.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken thighs in batches, cooking each side for about 5-7 minutes until browned and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. This locks in moisture and flavor.
  4. Pour any remaining marinade into the skillet with the cooked chicken. Allow to simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Rinse the long-grain white rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a pot, combine the rinsed rice, 3 cups of water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until water is absorbed. Let sit, covered, for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
  6. Whisk together rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Add sliced carrots and cucumber, ensuring submerged in the mixture. Let sit for at least 15 minutes to develop flavor.
  7. To serve, divide the fluffy rice into bowls, topping each with the coconut chicken. Arrange the pickled vegetables alongside, and garnish with cilantro, sesame seeds, green onions, lime wedges, and Sriracha to taste.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 75gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best flavor, marinate chicken overnight. Rinse rice to prevent clumping. Work in batches while cooking chicken for optimal browning.

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