Description
This Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl combines tender seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and a mild, creamy coconut sauce. It comes together in 30 minutes and works well for family dinners, busy weeknights, and meal prep.
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds chicken breast, diced
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano or dried mixed herbs
1/2 onion, minced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger, or up to 1 tablespoon for stronger ginger flavor
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 1/4 cups canned light coconut milk
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
3 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Extra coconut milk, for drizzling, optional
Instructions
1. Season the diced chicken with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, smoked paprika, and dried oregano or mixed herbs.
2. Heat a lightly oiled skillet over high heat.
3. Add the chicken and sear for 3 to 5 minutes until browned.
4. Transfer the browned chicken to a clean plate.
5. Lower the heat to medium.
6. Add the onion and cook briefly until it starts to soften.
7. Stir in the garlic and ginger, then cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant.
8. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
9. Stir in the tomato paste, coconut milk, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt.
10. Simmer the sauce for 4 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
11. Return the chicken and any juices to the skillet.
12. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the chicken cooks through and the sauce coats each piece.
13. Divide the cooked rice among four bowls.
14. Spoon the coconut chicken and sauce over the rice.
15. Garnish with fresh cilantro and drizzle with extra coconut milk, if desired.
Notes
This recipe works well for meal prep.
For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with firm tofu and use vegetable broth.
For a curry-style variation, stir red curry paste into the sauce.
Use brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice instead of white rice, if preferred.
Chicken thighs can replace chicken breast, but they may need a slightly longer cooking time.
Shrimp also works well as an alternative protein.
The dish tastes creamy and mild. Add sriracha, red pepper flakes, or red curry paste for more heat.
Serve with steamed vegetables, a side salad, fresh lime wedges, or extra cilantro.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For the best texture, store the rice and chicken mixture in separate containers.
Reheat gently and add a splash of coconut milk or water if the sauce becomes too thick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Chicken Recipes
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 429
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Protein: 40 g
