Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle Recipe
A vibrant and flavorful Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl featuring tender marinated chicken thighs cooked to a caramelized perfection, served over fragrant jasmine rice and topped with fresh tomatoes, green onions, and a refreshing coconut lime drizzle. This easy one-pan dish balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors for a delightful meal.
- Author: Leo
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Rice
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- Water (as per package instructions)
Coconut Lime Drizzle
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- Pinch of salt
Garnish and Assembly
- 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
- Optional: sesame seeds
- Optional: lime wedges
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish and pour sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper over them. Coat the chicken well and let it marinate for 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Cook Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Cook the rice following the package instructions until tender, then fluff it with a fork and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Place the marinated chicken thighs in the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until they develop a caramelized crust and are cooked through. Add any leftover marinade to the skillet and let it bubble and reduce until thickened, coating the chicken well.
- Prepare Coconut Lime Drizzle: In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth. Taste and adjust the lime juice to achieve the desired balance of tanginess.
- Assemble Bowls: Divide the jasmine rice among bowls, top with the caramelized chicken thighs, diced fresh tomatoes, and chopped green onions or chives. Generously drizzle the coconut lime sauce over each bowl.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and place lime wedges on the side if desired to add a fresh, zesty finish to the bowls.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if preferred, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Use brown jasmine rice for a nuttier flavor and more fiber; adjust cooking time as needed.
- Make sure not to discard leftover marinade without cooking it due to raw chicken exposure—always boil or reduce it thoroughly.
- This dish can be prepared ahead by marinating the chicken overnight for more tender flavor.
Keywords: sweet chili chicken, coconut lime sauce, jasmine rice bowl, easy chicken dinner, Asian inspired chicken, quick weeknight meal