Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl

If you’re looking for a meal that combines the tropical flavors of coconut with the heartiness of chicken and rice, look no further than the Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl. This recipe brings together the richness of coconut milk, the protein-packed goodness of chicken, and the comfort of steamed rice, all in one bowl. The result is a dish that’s not only packed with flavor but is also quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this bowl can easily be adapted for meal prep as well, making it a go-to recipe for both busy families and health-conscious eaters alike. With a few simple ingredients, this one-bowl wonder is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ready to explore the perfect balance of tender chicken, creamy coconut, and a hint of spices? Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Quick and Easy – A one-pot meal that comes together in just 30 minutes.
✅ Flavorful and Comforting – The coconut milk adds a creamy richness, while the chicken and spices bring a delicious depth of flavor.
✅ Nutrient-Dense – Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious.
✅ Meal Prep Friendly – Perfect for making in bulk and storing in the fridge for up to 4 days.
✅ Customizable – Easily swap in your favorite veggies, rice, or seasonings to suit your taste.
✅ Kid-Friendly – The creamy coconut flavor is mild and comforting, making it ideal for even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients (in grams)

For 4 servings, you’ll need:

For the Coconut Chicken:

500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if you prefer)
1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
1 small onion (100g), diced
2 cloves garlic (6g), minced
1 teaspoon ground ginger (1g)
1 teaspoon curry powder (1g)
1 teaspoon ground turmeric (1g)
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for heat)
1 can (400ml) coconut milk (full-fat or light, depending on preference)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice:

1 cup jasmine rice (160g), cooked (or you can use brown rice or basmati rice)
1 tablespoon coconut oil (15g) for cooking the rice (optional for added coconut flavor)
1/2 cup coconut water (120ml) or regular water for cooking the rice

For the Toppings:

Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)
Sliced avocado (optional)
Lime wedges (optional)
Toasted coconut flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

In a medium saucepan, heat the coconut oil (if using) over medium heat.
Add the rice to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat the rice with the oil.
Add coconut water (or regular water) and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the rice cook for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and add them to the pan. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F or 75°C).
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Once rested, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Coconut Sauce

In the same skillet, add the onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the garlic, ground ginger, curry powder, turmeric, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and become fragrant.
Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Coconut Chicken Rice Bowls

To serve, place a portion of the cooked rice in each bowl.
Top with the sliced chicken and pour the coconut sauce over the top.
Garnish with optional toppings such as fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, lime wedges, or toasted coconut flakes for extra flavor and texture.

Step 5: Enjoy!

Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, creamy goodness of the Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g

(Nutrition values may vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.)

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Coconut Chicken Rice Bowls

✔️ Make It Spicy – If you love a little heat, feel free to add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the coconut sauce for a spicy kick.

✔️ Use Chicken Thighs – For extra juiciness, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. The thighs stay tender and moist, making them perfect for this dish.

✔️ Add More Veggies – You can add more veggies like spinach, bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the coconut sauce for added color, texture, and nutrition.

✔️ Coconut Rice – To make the rice extra coconut-flavored, cook the rice in coconut milk instead of water. This will add more depth of coconut flavor to the entire dish.

✔️ Meal Prep Tip – This dish is perfect for meal prep. Divide the chicken, rice, and coconut sauce into airtight containers and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the individual components for up to 3 months and reheat when ready to serve.

Delicious Variations to Try

🌿 Lemon Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl – Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the coconut sauce to brighten up the flavors and balance out the richness of the coconut milk.

🍍 Pineapple Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl – Add some fresh pineapple chunks to the bowl for a sweet and tropical twist. The sweetness of the pineapple pairs wonderfully with the savory coconut chicken.

🥑 Avocado Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl – Top your coconut chicken with creamy avocado slices for an extra layer of richness and texture.

🥥 Coconut Curry Chicken Rice Bowl – If you like a more intense curry flavor, increase the amount of curry powder and add a bit of curry paste to the coconut sauce for a deeper, spicier flavor profile.

What to Serve with Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl

🥖 With Garlic Naan – Serve your bowl with some warm garlic naan for dipping in the coconut sauce.

🥗 With a Side Salad – A simple cucumber salad with fresh herbs, lime, and a light vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the coconut milk.

🍷 With Wine – Pair this dish with a glass of Chardonnay or a light Riesling for a perfect wine pairing that complements the flavors.

How to Store & Reheat Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl

🛑 Store – Keep the Coconut Chicken Rice Bowls in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

🔥 Reheat – Reheat the chicken and sauce in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, or on the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen it up.

🧊 Freeze – You can freeze the chicken and coconut sauce for up to 3 months. Store the rice separately in the freezer for optimal texture.