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Are you tired of the same old chicken and rice dinner? It’s time to step up your game with a Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl! This dish brings together tender chicken, creamy coconut milk, and fluffy rice in one bowl of deliciousness. Imagine the savory, creamy goodness of the coconut milk, combined with the natural flavors of the chicken and rice—it’s pure comfort in a bowl.
If you’re looking for an easy dinner idea with minimal prep but big flavors, then look no further. If you’re a fan of dishes like our One Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken Rice, this is sure to become your new favorite too!
Why You’ll Love This Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe
- Quick and Easy – This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. You’ll have a flavorful, satisfying meal with little effort.
- Coconut Milk Magic – The creamy coconut milk not only makes the chicken incredibly moist but also adds a rich flavor that complements the rice perfectly.
- Healthy Comfort Food – This Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl is not just delicious; it’s nutritious too. It’s a healthy option that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
If you loved our Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, you’ll find this coconut chicken variation just as comforting and filling.
How to Make Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe
Quick Overview
This Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl is a 30-minute wonder that’s both quick and satisfying. You’ll coat chicken breasts in a flavorful seasoning mix, simmer them in coconut milk, and serve over rice. The result is a warm, creamy dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 20 mins
Total time: 30 mins
Servings: 4
Key Ingredients for Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe:
To make this delicious Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for richness)
- 1 cup rice (jasmine rice works great)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- 1 lime (optional, for zest and freshness)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Rice:
Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions. For extra flavor, you can cook the rice in a bit of coconut milk mixed with water. - Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. - Simmer in Coconut Milk:
Once the chicken is cooked, pour the coconut milk into the skillet, scraping the bottom to release any brown bits. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly and the chicken is coated in the creamy coconut sauce. - Assemble the Bowl:
To serve, place a portion of rice in each bowl. Top with the coconut chicken and spoon some of the sauce over the top. Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime for added flavor.
What to Serve Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl With
Here are some perfect pairings for your Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl:
- Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows – A perfect contrast to the creamy chicken, the sweet potatoes balance the savory flavors.
- Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Creamy Parmesan Pasta – Another chicken-based dish with a comforting, creamy texture to complement the bowl.
Top Tips for Perfecting Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl
- Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk – For a creamier texture and more flavor, choose full-fat coconut milk over the lighter versions.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Keep an eye on the chicken to prevent it from drying out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Add Spice – If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the coconut milk.
- Use Fresh Cilantro – A sprinkle of fresh cilantro right before serving adds brightness and a refreshing flavor.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of coconut milk to keep the chicken moist.
Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup white rice
- 1 can 13.5 oz coconut milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey optional for sweetness
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
- 1/4 cup green onions chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili flakes.
- Cook the Rice: In a saucepan, add the rice and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Combine: Once the chicken is done, cut it into strips and place it over the coconut rice. Drizzle with soy sauce and honey (if using).
- Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped cilantro, green onions, and lime wedges for extra flavor.
Notes
Pros:
- Quick and easy to make in 30 minutes
- Full of flavor with a creamy texture from the coconut milk
- Healthy and satisfying with lean protein and coconut milk
- Great for meal prep and versatile for customization
- Perfect balance of savory and subtle sweetness
Cons:
- Not suitable for those with dairy allergies (contains coconut milk)
- Requires some basic cooking tools, such as a pot and skillet
- May not be as flavorful without proper seasoning (adjust to taste)
FAQ
- What to put in a chicken bowl with rice?
You can add toppings like avocado, sautéed veggies, or a drizzle of sauce for extra flavor. - What does coconut milk do to chicken?
Coconut milk adds richness and moisture, making the chicken incredibly tender and flavorful. - Are chicken and rice bowls healthy?
Yes! This dish is balanced with protein from chicken, healthy fats from coconut milk, and carbs from rice. - How to make coconut rice at home?
Simply cook rice with a combination of water and coconut milk for a flavorful twist. - Does coconut milk thicken when cooked?
Yes, coconut milk thickens as it cooks, making it perfect for creating creamy sauces. - What balances out coconut milk?
Acidic ingredients like lime or lemon can balance the richness of coconut milk. - What toppings go on rice bowls?
You can add a variety of toppings like nuts, herbs, avocado, or even a fried egg. - What is coconut chicken?
Coconut chicken is chicken cooked in or with coconut milk, often resulting in a creamy, rich dish.
This Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl is the ultimate comfort food, balancing flavors and textures in a 30-minute meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to satisfy. So grab those ingredients, and let’s get cooking!