Creamy Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl: A Cozy Comfort Recipe

Comfort meets tropical flair in this creamy coconut chicken rice bowl that promises a delightful culinary adventure.

The tender chicken, bathed in a luscious coconut sauce, dances with fragrant spices and fresh ingredients.

Rich, velvety textures blend seamlessly with aromatic herbs and perfectly cooked rice.

Each spoonful carries a harmony of flavors that whispers of far-off shores and home-cooked warmth.

Weeknight dinners transform into special moments with this effortless yet elegant dish.

Weekend meal prep just got a whole lot more exciting with this crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

You’ll savor every delectable bite of this simple and satisfying meal.

FAQs

• How do I get the best flavor for the chicken?

Season the chicken generously with kosher salt, smoked paprika, and dried herbs before cooking. This helps create a deep, rich flavor that infuses into the meat during browning.

• Can I use a different type of rice?

While jasmine or basmati rice work best, you can substitute with white rice or brown rice. Just ensure the rice is cooked to a fluffy texture to complement the creamy coconut sauce.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe is mildly seasoned and not inherently spicy. If you want heat, you can add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce while cooking.

Why Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl Wins

• Whip up this delicious chicken rice bowl quickly with minimal ingredients and straightforward cooking steps.
• Blend rich coconut milk, aromatic spices, and tender chicken for a mouthwatering dish that delivers complex taste profiles in every bite.
• Swap rice varieties, adjust spice levels, or add extra vegetables to make this recipe perfectly suited to your personal preferences and dietary needs.
• Minimize kitchen cleanup by preparing the entire meal in a single skillet, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights and hassle-free cooking.

Chicken Rice Bowl Ingredient List

• Chicken: Lean protein that serves as the main star of this delicious rice bowl.
• Jasmine Rice, Basmati Rice: Fragrant rice varieties that provide a perfect base for the creamy chicken dish.

• Kosher Salt, Smoked Paprika, Dried Herbs: Blend of seasonings that enhance the chicken's flavor and add depth to the dish.
• Ginger, Garlic, Onion: Aromatic ingredients that create a robust and complex flavor profile.

• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and intensifies the savory taste of the dish.
• Tomato Paste: Provides a rich, concentrated tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• Coconut Milk: Creates a creamy, luxurious sauce with a subtle tropical undertone.

• Fresh Cilantro: Bright herb that adds a fresh, citrusy note to the finished dish.

Tools for Coconut Chicken Bowl

• Large Skillet: Heavy-bottomed pan for even cooking and browning chicken.
• Cooking Spray: Helps prevent sticking and promotes easy browning.
• Cutting Board: For preparing ingredients like onion, garlic, and ginger.
• Chef's Knife: Sharp knife for precise ingredient chopping.
• Measuring Spoons: Ensures accurate seasoning and salt measurements.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring and mixing ingredients in the skillet.
• Grater: Helps create fine ginger pieces for the sauce.
• Serving Bowls: For plating the finished chicken and rice dish.

Steps for Chicken Rice Bowl

Step 1: Prepare Chicken Flavor

• Kosher salt
• Smoked paprika
• Dried herbs

Massage the seasonings into the chicken to ensure every inch is packed with deliciousness.

Step 2: Sear The Protein

Heat a large skillet until it’s super hot.

Spray with cooking oil and carefully place the seasoned chicken.

Let it sizzle and brown for 3-5 minutes, creating a gorgeous golden crust that locks in all the juicy goodness.

Step 3: Build Aromatic Base

Remove the chicken from the skillet and lower the heat.

• Finely chopped onion
• Minced garlic
• Freshly grated ginger

Stir these fragrant ingredients until they release their mouth-watering aroma, about 1 minute.

Step 4: Create Flavor Foundation

Pour chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up all those delectable browned bits from the bottom.

Let it simmer and reduce slightly for about 1 minute.

Step 5: Craft Creamy Sauce

• Tomato paste
• Coconut milk
• A pinch of salt

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it thicken, creating a luxurious coating that will make your taste buds dance.

Step 6: Reunite Chicken With Sauce

Return the seared chicken to the skillet, including any accumulated juices.

Nestle the pieces into the creamy sauce and cook on medium heat for 3-4 minutes, ensuring the chicken is completely coated and heated through.

Step 7: Plate And Garnish

Serve the coconut chicken over a bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice.

Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top and add an extra drizzle of coconut milk for an indulgent touch.

Get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!

Pro Tips for Chicken Rice Bowl

• Mix all dry spices in a small bowl beforehand to ensure even coating and save time during chicken preparation.
• Pat chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning to achieve perfect golden-brown sear and prevent steaming.
• Let sauce simmer uncovered to naturally thicken, watching carefully to prevent burning and achieve desired texture.
• Replace regular chicken broth with low-sodium version and reduce added salt to control overall dish's sodium content.
• Swap coconut milk with almond or cashew milk for those with coconut allergies, maintaining creamy sauce consistency.

Chicken Rice Bowl Twists

• Spicy Southwest Chicken Bowl: Replace smoked paprika with chipotle powder and add diced green chilies to the sauce for a zesty kick.
• Dairy-Free Mediterranean Variation: Swap coconut milk with almond milk and add roasted red peppers and oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Rice Option: Substitute jasmine rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb alternative that keeps the rich sauce and protein intact.
• Vegan Chickpea Transformation: Replace chicken with roasted chickpeas, use vegetable broth, and maintain the creamy coconut sauce for a plant-based version of the recipe.

Serving Chicken Rice Bowls

• Tropical Paradise Plate: Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro and green onions over the rice bowl for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
• Creamy Coconut Crunch: Top with toasted coconut flakes and sliced almonds to add delightful texture and nutty richness.
• Spice It Up: Drizzle with sriracha or chili oil for those who love an extra kick of heat and complexity.
• Rice Bowl Refresh: Add a side of quick pickled cucumber or fresh lime wedges to brighten the entire dish with tangy notes.

Storing Chicken Rice Bowl Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Separate chicken and rice to maintain texture and prevent sogginess.
• Transfer cooled chicken and sauce to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Avoid freezing rice separately.
• Place chicken and rice in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of chicken broth or coconut milk to prevent drying. Cover and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Creamy Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl – Simple and Flavorful Recipe

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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 30 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy coconut chicken rice bowls bring comforting flavors from Southeast Asian cuisine. Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a satisfying meal you’ll crave repeatedly.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1.5 pounds (680 grams) diced chicken breast
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (or 1 tablespoon for extra gingery flavor)

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or dried herbs
• 1/2 onion (minced)

Liquid and Base Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 1/4 cup canned light coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 3 cups cooked jasmine rice or basmati
• Fresh cilantro
• Additional coconut milk (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly coat chicken pieces with a blend of kosher salt, smoked paprika, and dried herbs, ensuring even coverage.
2. Heat a large skillet to high temperature, lightly spritz with cooking oil, and place seasoned chicken in a single layer. Sear for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and developing a crisp exterior.
3. Transfer browned chicken to a plate. Reduce skillet heat and add a fresh spray of oil. Introduce finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger, sautéing for approximately 60 seconds until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the skillet by pouring in chicken broth, scraping up any caramelized bits from the pan’s surface. Allow liquid to simmer for one minute, concentrating flavors.
5. Incorporate tomato paste and rich coconut milk into the skillet, seasoning with additional salt. Gently simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to slightly thicken and develop depth.
6. Reintroduce seared chicken to the sauce, including any accumulated juices. Simmer on medium heat for 3-4 minutes, ensuring chicken is thoroughly coated and heated through.
7. Plate the saucy chicken atop fluffy jasmine or basmati rice. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro and optionally drizzle with extra coconut milk for enhanced creaminess.

Notes

• Customize Spice Levels Adjust the smoked paprika and dried herbs to match your heat preference, creating a personalized flavor profile that suits your taste buds.
• Protein Swap Easily substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or chickpeas for a versatile vegetarian or alternative protein option that maintains the dish’s creamy texture.
• Perfect Browning Ensure chicken pieces are patted dry before seasoning to achieve a golden-brown crust that locks in maximum flavor and creates a beautiful caramelized exterior.
• Meal Prep Friendly This recipe stores beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or make-ahead dinners that taste just as delicious reheated.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 68g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg