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A delicious and vibrant Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl is presented as the featured image for this recipe.

EASY COCONUT CHICKEN RICE BOWL

This Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl recipe delivers a flavorful and easy-to-prepare meal. Featuring tender chicken simmered in a creamy coconut sauce and served over fluffy jasmine rice, this dish balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors for a delightful tropical experience.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce optional
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp curry powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 3 cups water
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Toasted coconut flakes
  • Lime wedges
  • Chopped peanuts optional
  • Sriracha or chili garlic sauce optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Pot with lid
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • Grater
  • Mixing spoon
  • fork
  • Bowls

Method
 

  1. Cook the Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine rice, water, and salt in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluff with a fork.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
  4. Build the Sauce: Add the sliced red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until slightly softened, about 3 minutes. Pour in the coconut milk, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), lime juice, curry powder, turmeric powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
  5. Simmer the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice among bowls. Top with the coconut chicken and sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro, toasted coconut flakes, lime wedges, chopped peanuts (if using), and sriracha or chili garlic sauce (if using).
  7. Serve and Enjoy!

Notes

For best results, use full-fat coconut milk. Chicken thighs are more tender than chicken breasts. Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch. Adjust seasonings to taste. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.