Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to adore about this tropical chicken bowl. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Sweet and Spicy Balance : The sticky sweet chili glaze pairs perfectly with the cooling coconut-lime drizzle.
- Quick and Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes—ideal for busy nights or lazy weekends.
- Customizable : Swap proteins, grains, or veggies to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Meal Prep Friendly : Assemble components ahead of time for grab-and-go lunches.
- Instagram-Worthy : Vibrant colors and layered presentation make it a feast for the eyes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this dish lies in its bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts for a leaner option)
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
For the Coconut Lime Drizzle:
- ½ cup coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey (or agave for vegan)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- Salt , to taste
For the Bowl:
- 1 cup cooked jasmine rice (or quinoa for a gluten-free option)
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or slaw mix
- 1 avocado , sliced
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges , for serving
- Sesame seeds , for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to whip up this flavor-packed bowl? Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes while you prep other ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken (reserve the marinade) and cook for 5–6 minutes per side , until cooked through.
- Pour the reserved marinade into the pan during the last 2 minutes of cooking to glaze the chicken.
Step 3: Make the Coconut Lime Drizzle
- In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, lime juice, honey, lime zest, and a pinch of salt. Adjust sweetness or tanginess to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
- Divide the cooked rice between bowls. Slice the chicken and arrange it over the rice.
- Top with shredded cabbage, avocado slices, carrots, and cilantro.
- Drizzle generously with the coconut-lime sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Add lime wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of freshness.
- Dive in and savor the tropical flavors!
