Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle

If you’re craving a dinner that feels exciting, comforting, and a little bit magical, this Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle delivers in every way. Juicy, caramelized chicken coated in sweet chili sauce sits on a bed of fluffy rice, topped with fresh veggies and finished with a creamy, tangy coconut lime drizzle. It’s bold, balanced, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings where you want something impressive without extra stress.

This bowl hits all the right notes: sweet, savory, creamy, and fresh. It’s the kind of meal that looks restaurant-worthy but comes together easily at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with bold sweet-and-savory flavors
• Perfect for meal prep and customizable bowls
• High-protein and satisfying without feeling heavy
• Simple ingredients with big payoff
• Great for family dinners or casual entertaining

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts – Juicy and flavorful; thighs offer richness while breasts keep it lean
• Sweet chili sauce – Adds sticky sweetness and mild heat
• Soy sauce or tamari – Brings savory umami and depth
• Olive oil or coconut oil – Helps caramelize the chicken and adds richness
• Salt and pepper – Enhances overall flavor

For the Base

• Jasmine rice – Light, fluffy, and perfect for soaking up sauce
• Quinoa (optional) – A higher-protein alternative

For the Coconut Lime Drizzle

• Coconut milk – Creamy and lightly sweet, balancing the spice
• Fresh lime juice – Bright and tangy, cutting through richness
• Salt – Brings all the flavors together

For the Toppings

• Diced fresh tomatoes – Juicy freshness in every bite
• Green onions or chives – Mild onion flavor and color
• Sesame seeds or lime wedges (optional) – Extra texture and brightness

How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl

Marinate the Chicken

In a shallow dish, combine the chicken with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

Cook the Rice

Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions. Once done, fluff with a fork and keep warm.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and caramelized. Pour in the remaining marinade and simmer until it thickens and coats the chicken beautifully.

Make the Coconut Lime Drizzle

In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Taste and adjust lime juice for extra tang if desired.

Assemble the Bowls

Divide the rice among serving bowls. Top with sliced chicken, diced tomatoes, and green onions. Drizzle generously with the coconut lime sauce. Finish with sesame seeds or lime wedges if using.

Tips for Success

• Don’t skip marinating; even 20 minutes makes a big difference
• Let the sauce simmer until thick for maximum flavor
• Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer drizzle
• Slice chicken after resting briefly to keep it juicy

Equipment Needed

• Skillet or frying pan
• Shallow dish for marinating
• Whisk
• Saucepan or rice cooker
• Cutting board and sharp knife

Recipe Variations

• Spicy version – Add sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade
• Low-carb bowl – Serve over cauliflower rice
• Vegetarian option – Swap chicken for tofu or roasted cauliflower
• Tropical twist – Add mango or pineapple chunks as a topping

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bowls fresh while the rice is warm and the chicken is juicy. Pair with a crisp cucumber salad or steamed greens for extra balance. They also work beautifully as meal prep bowls for lunches throughout the week.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, store chicken, rice, and sauce separately for up to 3 days and assemble before serving.

Can I grill the chicken instead?
Absolutely. Grilling adds a smoky flavor that works great with the sweet chili marinade.

Is this recipe very spicy?
It’s mildly spicy. Choose a sweeter chili sauce or add extra heat to suit your taste.

Can I use light coconut milk?
Yes, though the drizzle will be slightly thinner and less rich.

What other toppings work well?
Avocado, fresh cilantro, shredded carrots, or cucumbers are all great additions.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle is the kind of meal that feels fun, fresh, and deeply satisfying. It’s easy enough for weeknights, customizable for different diets, and impressive enough to serve guests. Give it a try, play with the toppings, and enjoy every flavorful bite.

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