Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle Recipe

Quick Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle Recipe

Crafting a mouthwatering sweet chili chicken bowl sparks culinary excitement for home cooks seeking bold flavors.

Vibrant ingredients dance together in this simple yet sophisticated meal.

Tender chicken pieces get coated with a zesty chili glaze that promises instant satisfaction.

Crisp vegetables add color and crunch to every delightful bite.

coconut lime drizzle brings a creamy, tangy twist that elevates the entire dish.

Fresh herbs scattered on top create an aromatic finishing touch.

You’ll find this recipe so irresistible that one taste will transport you to a tropical paradise of flavor.

Dive into this bowl and let your taste buds celebrate!

Why Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl Stands Out

  • Combine simple ingredients for a flavor-packed chicken that infuses deliciousness with minimal prep work.
  • Easily adapt the recipe by adjusting spice levels, adding extra vegetables, or swapping proteins to suit personal preferences.
  • Enjoy a vibrant mix of sweet, tangy, and creamy elements that transport your taste buds to a culinary paradise without complicated techniques.

Ingredients In Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl

Main Ingredients:

Protein:
  • Chicken Thighs: Tender and flavorful meat perfect for marinating.
Main Carbohydrate:
  • Jasmine Rice: Fragrant and soft rice base for the bowl.
Marinade and Sauce Components:
  • Sweet Chili Sauce: Sweet and tangy sauce for marinating and flavoring.
  • Soy Sauce: Adds depth and umami to the marinade.
  • Coconut Milk: Creamy base for the drizzle sauce.
Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Garlic, Ginger: Provides robust and warming flavor profiles.
  • Lime Juice: Adds bright and zesty citrus notes.
Cooking Fat:
  • Olive Oil: Used for cooking and preventing sticking.
Garnishes:
  • Cilantro, Green Onions: Fresh herbs for added brightness and color.
  • Crushed Red Pepper: Provides optional heat and spice.
  • Lime Wedges: Allows extra citrus customization.
Liquid Seasonings:
  • Optional Chili Sauce: Extra heat for spice lovers.

Putting Together Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl

Putting Together Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl

Step 1: Prepare Zesty Marinade

Whisk together these flavor-packed ingredients:
  • sweet chili sauce
  • soy sauce
  • minced garlic
  • grated ginger
  • fresh lime juice

Submerge chicken in the marinade and let it soak up all the delicious flavors for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Create Creamy Coconut Lime Drizzle

Blend these smooth ingredients:
  • coconut milk
  • lime juice
  • sweet chili sauce
  • optional chili sauce

Refrigerate the sauce to keep it cool and refreshing.

Step 3: Sizzle and Caramelize Chicken

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of olive oil.

Cook chicken thighs until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust, about 5-6 minutes per side.

Ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.

Let the chicken rest briefly, then slice into tempting strips.

Step 4: Build Your Flavor-Packed Bowl

Layer jasmine rice as the base, then top with the caramelized chicken slices.

Generously drizzle the creamy coconut lime sauce over the chicken.

Step 5: Add Final Flourishes

Sprinkle these vibrant garnishes:
  • chopped cilantro
  • sliced green onions
  • crushed red pepper
  • fresh lime wedges

Serve immediately and enjoy your culinary masterpiece!

Quick Tips For Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl

  • Allow chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes to maximize flavor absorption and tenderize the meat.
  • Adjust chili sauce quantity to match your spice tolerance, creating a personalized heat experience without overwhelming the dish.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally, guaranteeing safe and juicy results every time.
  • Arrange chicken and garnishes intentionally for a restaurant-quality visual appeal that enhances dining experience.
  • Prepare coconut lime drizzle ahead of time and refrigerate to let flavors meld, intensifying the sauce's complexity.

Keep Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl Fresh

  • Transfer leftover chicken and rice to airtight containers, separating wet and dry ingredients. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Place cooled chicken and rice in freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Remove excess air, label with date, and freeze for maximum 2 months.
  • Place chicken and rice in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle with a little water to prevent drying. Cover and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Warm chicken and rice in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or extra sauce to maintain moisture, stirring gently until heated thoroughly.

What To Eat With Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl

  • Elevate Sweet Chili Chicken Harmony
  • Pair Crisp Riesling: Light, slightly sweet white wine complements the sweet chili sauce's spiciness while balancing the rich coconut lime drizzle.
  • Boost Flavor Refreshment: Sparkling ginger beer provides zesty carbonation that cuts through the chicken's richness and enhances the lime and chili notes.
  • Match Tropical Cocktail: Craft a coconut mojito using white rum, fresh mint, and coconut water to mirror the dish's tropical flavor profile and cooling coconut elements.
  • Enhance Rice Companion: Serve alongside cucumber-mint salad to introduce fresh, crisp textures that contrast the warm, caramelized chicken and provide a light, cooling counterpoint.

Switch-Ups For Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl

  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, marinated in the same sweet chili sauce for a plant-based alternative.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure sweet chili sauce is gluten-free to make the recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Low-Carb Option: Substitute jasmine rice with cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining the dish's vibrant flavors.
  • Spicy Heat Boost: Add sriracha or sambal oelek to the coconut lime drizzle for extra heat, catering to those who enjoy more intense spice levels.

FAQs

  • What makes the marinade so flavorful?

The combination of sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and lime juice creates a complex, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor profile that deeply penetrates the chicken, ensuring maximum taste in every bite.

  • Can I use a different cut of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken thighs, you can easily substitute with chicken breasts or even chicken tenders. Just adjust cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked without drying out.

  • Is the coconut lime drizzle spicy?

The coconut lime drizzle is mild and creamy, with a bright citrusy flavor. You can add optional chili sauce if you want to increase the heat level to suit your personal preference.

  • How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, cut into the thickest part of the chicken – it should be white throughout with no pink areas and juices should run clear.

Print
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Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle Recipe

Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle Recipe


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4.6 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 42 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mouthwatering sweet chili chicken bowl with coconut lime drizzle brings Asian-inspired flavors dancing across your plate. Fresh ingredients and bold seasonings create a perfect balance of zesty, creamy, and spicy notes you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) boneless skinless chicken thighs

Sauces and Seasonings:

  • 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce (plus extra for drizzle)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon chili sauce or sriracha (optional, for drizzle heat)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • Salt to taste

Base and Garnish Ingredients:

  • 3 cups cooked jasmine rice
  • 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
  • Juice of 1 lime (plus extra wedges for garnish)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Crushed red pepper (optional)
  • Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

  1. Create a zesty marinade by whisking sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and fresh lime juice in a mixing container.
  2. Submerge chicken thighs in the marinade, ensuring complete coverage, and refrigerate for 30-45 minutes to enhance flavor absorption.
  3. Prepare the coconut lime drizzle by blending coconut milk, additional lime juice, a touch of sweet chili sauce, and optional chili sauce until smooth. Refrigerate until serving.
  4. Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat with a light coating of olive oil, reaching approximately 375°F.
  5. Transfer marinated chicken to the hot pan, cooking for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  6. Allow chicken to rest for 3-4 minutes, then slice into thin, diagonal strips.
  7. Create a base of fluffy jasmine rice in serving bowls.
  8. Layer sliced chicken over the rice, arranging pieces attractively.
  9. Generously drizzle the chilled coconut lime sauce across the chicken.
  10. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, thinly sliced green onions, crushed red pepper flakes, and garnish with lime wedges.
  11. Serve immediately while chicken remains warm and flavors are vibrant.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken for maximum flavor by letting it sit in the sweet chili mixture for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
  • Enhance caramelization by patting chicken dry before cooking to ensure a crispy exterior and prevent steaming.
  • Customize the heat level by adjusting chili sauce or adding fresh chopped chilies to suit your spice preference.
  • Make the dish gluten-free by using tamari instead of traditional soy sauce and checking sweet chili sauce ingredients.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 650
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 60 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Olivia Bennett

Olivia Bennett

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • Showcasing ingredients in plant-forward vegetarian dishes.
  • Creating adaptable weeklong menu templates centered on seasonal produce.

Education

Schoolcraft College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Associate Degree
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, menu planning, and food safety.

With an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from Schoolcraft College and a natural knack for teaching, Olivia Bennett’s all about making home cooking feel possible, even on your busiest day.
Her thing? Recipes that are budget-friendly, season-forward, and full of Southern warmth. Whether it’s a roasted veggie bowl or a five-ingredient skillet bake, Olivia makes sure it’s simple, satisfying, and something you’ll want to make again tomorrow.
When she’s not shooting step-by-step videos or testing spice blends, she’s out foraging, flipping through old cookbooks, or throwing laid-back dinner parties with a BYO-mason-jar theme.

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