COCONUT CHICKEN RICE BOWL
This Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl is a flavorful and satisfying meal that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken is simmered in a creamy coconut milk sauce with aromatic spices, then served over fluffy rice and topped with your favorite fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce:
- 1 13.5 ounce can full-fat coconut milk
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce or soy sauce for a vegetarian option
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
Rice:
- 1 cup rice jasmine or basmati
- 2 cups water or broth
Toppings (choose a variety):
- Shredded carrots
- Sliced cucumbers
- Chopped cilantro
- Chopped green onions
- Sliced red chilies optional
- Lime wedges
- Toasted coconut flakes optional
Instructions
- Cook rice: While preparing the chicken, cook the rice according to package directions.
- Season chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with curry powder, ginger, turmeric, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Cook chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Make coconut sauce: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Pour in the coconut milk, fish sauce (or soy sauce), lime juice, and brown sugar (or honey). Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Assemble bowls: Divide the cooked rice between bowls. Top with the coconut chicken and sauce. Arrange your chosen toppings attractively around the chicken.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with lime wedges and toasted coconut flakes (if desired). Serve immediately.
Notes
- Chicken: You can also use cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken in this recipe. Just add it to the sauce in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk will give the sauce the richest flavor and creamiest texture.
- Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice are good choices for this bowl.
- Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! The possibilities are endless.
- Spicy Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken or sauce.
- Vegetable Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl: Add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snow peas, to the skillet along with the chicken.
- Shrimp Coconut Rice Bowl: Substitute shrimp for the chicken.
- Tofu Coconut Rice Bowl: Use tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian option.
- Peanut Sauce: Add peanut butter to the coconut sauce for a peanutty flavor.