Description
The coconut chicken rice bowl is a tropical-inspired dish featuring juicy marinated chicken, creamy coconut rice, and fresh toppings like avocado, cucumber, and herbs. It’s flavorful, comforting, and perfect for meal prep or quick dinners.
Ingredients
- For the Coconut Chicken:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 1/2 cup canned unsweetened coconut milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil (for cooking)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Coconut Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice, rinsed
- 1 cup canned unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional Toppings:
- Cucumber slices
- Shredded carrots
- Avocado, sliced
- Fresh cilantro or mint
- Chopped peanuts or cashews
- Lime wedges
- Sriracha or chili sauce
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
- Meanwhile, cook the rice: combine rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and salt in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until tender. Let sit off heat for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Let rest, then slice.
- Assemble bowls with coconut rice, sliced chicken, and desired toppings.
- Finish with a squeeze of lime and drizzle of chili sauce if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Use brown rice or quinoa for added fiber.
- Add pineapple or honey to the marinade for sweetness.
- Grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.
- Include Thai basil or lemongrass for Southeast Asian notes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
