This delicious coconut chicken rice bowl combines tender chicken with aromatic coconut-infused rice and fresh vegetables. Perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons coconut oil, divided
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 cup jasmine rice
1 ½ cups coconut milk
½ cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon curry powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup diced cucumber
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
¼ cup chopped peanuts (optional)
Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add rice to the skillet and stir for 1 minute to toast slightly.
Pour in coconut milk, chicken broth, soy sauce, lime juice, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Stir in the cooked chicken and let it heat through for 2-3 minutes.
Divide the rice and chicken mixture among bowls. Top with shredded carrots, diced cucumber, fresh cilantro, and chopped peanuts if using. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture and richest flavor in your coconut chicken rice bowl.
Toast the rice before adding liquid to enhance its nutty flavor and help grains stay separate.
For meal prep, store rice mixture separately from fresh vegetables to maintain crispness for up to 4 days.
If using brown rice, increase cooking time to 40-45 minutes and add extra ½ cup liquid.