Name: Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs (or chicken breasts for a leaner dish); ½ cup Sweet Chili Sauce (homemade or store-bought); ¼ cup Soy Sauce (use tamari for gluten-free option); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or coconut oil for a tropical flavor); Salt and Pepper to taste; 1 cup Jasmine Rice (or quinoa as a healthier alternative); 1 cup Coconut Milk (light option available); 2 tablespoons Fresh Lime Juice (or lemon juice as substitute); Pinch of Salt; 1 cup Diced Fresh Tomatoes (or cucumbers/bell peppers for crunch); 2 tablespoons Chopped Green Onions or Chives (or shallots/red onions); Optional: Sesame Seeds and Lime Wedges for garnish

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Introduction

Enjoy a Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle, a vibrant meal bursting with flavor that’s perfect for any gathering. This dish combines tender caramelized chicken thighs with fluffy jasmine rice and a tangy, creamy coconut lime sauce for a delightful fusion experience.

A bowl with a base layer of fluffy white rice topped with several pieces of grilled chicken, golden brown with charred black spots, arranged in a row. Drizzled over the chicken is a creamy, light orange sauce being poured from chopsticks held by a woman's hand, and sprinkled green herbs like chopped spring onions and cilantro. On the side, a few bright green lime wedges rest against the rice, all in a white bowl set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs or chicken breasts for a leaner dish
½ cup Sweet Chili Sauce (homemade or store-bought)
¼ cup Soy Sauce (use tamari for gluten-free option)
2 tablespoons Olive Oil or coconut oil for a tropical flavor
1 cup Jasmine Rice or quinoa as a healthier option
1 cup Coconut Milk (light option available)
2 tablespoons Fresh Lime Juice or lemon juice as a substitute
1 cup Diced Fresh Tomatoes or cucumbers/bell peppers for crunch
2 tablespoons Chopped Green Onions or Chives or shallots/red onions
Salt and Pepper to taste (consider low-sodium soy sauce for health)
Optional: Sesame Seeds and Lime Wedges for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a shallow dish, mix together the chicken thighs, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.
Step 2: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until it runs clear. Cook according to the package instructions. Once done, fluff it with a fork and keep it warm.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and caramelized. Pour in the remaining marinade and simmer until thickened.
Step 4: In a bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Taste and adjust the lime juice if you prefer more tartness.
Step 5: Divide the fluffy rice among serving bowls, then top with sliced chicken, diced tomatoes, and green onions. Drizzle generously with the coconut lime sauce. Garnish with lime wedges and sesame seeds if desired.
Step 6: Serve warm. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, while the chicken is juicy and the rice is warm and fluffy.

Tips & Variations

Marinate the chicken for longer to intensify flavors, up to 2 hours or overnight in the fridge.
Substitute jasmine rice with quinoa for a nuttier, protein-packed base.
Add grilled pineapple chunks for a sweet, caramelized flavor contrast.
Include crunchy bell peppers or snap peas for extra freshness and color.
Spice it up with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha in the marinade.
Top with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to brighten the dish.
For creaminess, add sliced or diced avocado as a finishing touch.

Storage

Store the chicken, rice, and coconut lime drizzle separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken and drizzle in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months; rice can also be frozen but may have a slightly different texture when reheated. Reheat gently in the microwave until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes for chicken and drizzle. Reheat rice carefully to prevent drying out. Serve warm for the best taste.

How to Serve

A deep white bowl filled with a thick layer of fluffy white rice at the bottom, topped with a sliced grilled chicken breast that has a golden-brown color with charred grill marks. The chicken is drizzled with a creamy light orange sauce that is being poured from red chopsticks held by a woman's hand. Bright green chopped scallions and cilantro are scattered over the chicken. Several lime wedges and one half lime sit on the side of the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

How do I choose ripe chicken thighs?

Look for boneless skinless chicken thighs that are plump and slightly glossy without any dark spots or slimy texture. Fresh chicken should have a mild smell without any unpleasant odor.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store the chicken, rice, and coconut lime drizzle separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps everything fresh for up to 3 days. Let the chicken cool before sealing the container to avoid moisture buildup.

Can I freeze the Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl?

Yes, freeze the cooked chicken and coconut lime drizzle in freezer-safe containers after cooling completely. They will last up to 3 months. Rice can be frozen but might have a slightly altered texture upon reheating.

What if my chicken turns out dry?

Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If it’s already dry, slice the chicken and soak it in warm chicken broth to restore moisture before serving.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace regular soy sauce with tamari and check that your sweet chili sauce is gluten-free to make the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Is this recipe suitable for pets?

Due to ingredients like soy sauce and sweet chili sauce containing high sodium and sugar, it is best to keep this dish for humans only. Offer plain cooked chicken to pets if desired.