If you’re looking for a dish that’s packed with flavor, high in protein, and easy to make, this Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl is the perfect choice. Inspired by tropical and Asian flavors, this dish combines juicy chicken with creamy coconut rice and a medley of fresh vegetables. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making a quick dinner, this bowl is both satisfying and nutritious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein: Chicken breast provides a lean protein source, keeping you full longer.
- Rich and Creamy: Coconut milk-infused rice adds a unique depth of flavor.
- Easy to Customize: Swap vegetables based on what you have in your fridge.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Store leftovers for a quick, healthy meal throughout the week.
Ingredients
For the Coconut Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into strips)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
For the Coconut Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for a slight sweetness)
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup cucumber slices
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Rice
- Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium pot, combine the rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and sugar.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for another 10 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Coconut Chicken
- In a large pan, heat coconut oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced chicken and season with garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Add soy sauce and lime juice, stirring well to coat the chicken.
- Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Rice Bowls
- Divide the coconut rice evenly between serving bowls.
- Top each bowl with the cooked coconut chicken.
- Add shredded carrots, cucumber slices, cilantro, and green onions.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top.
- Serve with lime wedges for extra zest.
Tips for the Best Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and lime juice make a big difference in flavor.
- Try a Spicy Kick: Add a drizzle of sriracha or chili flakes for some heat.
- Make It Low-Carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice.
- Marinate the Chicken: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in coconut milk for 30 minutes before cooking.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
Check out: Best Baked Chicken and Zucchini Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes! Brown rice adds extra fiber and nutrients but takes longer to cook. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based version.
4. What other toppings can I add?
Try avocado, mango slices, crushed peanuts, or even a soft-boiled egg for extra flavor.
5. Is this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, since coconut milk replaces traditional dairy, this recipe is completely dairy-free
Final Thoughts
This Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl is a game-changer for those who love easy, flavorful, and nutritious meals. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout meal, a meal-prep-friendly option, or just a comforting dinner, this dish will satisfy all your cravings. Try it today and let us know how you liked it!
Read more: Best High Protein Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Print
Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl is a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dish packed with tender coconut-infused chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh vegetables. With a rich coconut sauce and a balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbs, this meal is perfect for meal prep or a delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Coconut Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ginger powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat or light)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Rice & Bowl Assembly:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or brown rice for extra fiber)
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 2 tablespoons toasted coconut flakes (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon chopped peanuts or cashews (optional for crunch)
Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, season with garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
2. Make the Coconut Sauce:
- Pour in the coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Assemble the Rice Bowls:
- Divide the cooked rice into bowls.
- Top with the coconut chicken, steamed broccoli, sliced bell peppers, and shredded carrots.
4. Garnish & Serve:
- Sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes, fresh cilantro, and chopped peanuts or cashews.
- Serve with extra lime wedges for added freshness.
Notes
- Swap quinoa for rice to boost fiber and protein.
- Add a drizzle of sriracha or peanut sauce for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, Healthy, High-Protein
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 38g
Keywords: Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl, Healthy Rice Bowl, Coconut Chicken Recipe, Easy Meal Prep, High-Protein Bowl