If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor, color, and that perfect balance of sweet and tangy, you’re going to love this Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle. This bowl brings together tender, juicy chicken coated in a vibrant sweet chili marinade, resting on a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, all elevated by a luscious, creamy coconut lime drizzle that adds just the right amount of zest and richness. Perfect for weeknights or impressing friends, this recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.

Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, crafting layers of taste and texture that make the Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle so irresistible. From the aromatic ginger to the fresh lime juice, each component works harmoniously to build a flavor profile that’s bright, tangy, and delightfully sweet.

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for juiciness or breasts for leaner meat; either way, they soak up the marinade beautifully.
1/3 cup sweet chili sauce: This is the star that gives the chicken its signature sweet and spicy glaze.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds savory depth and balances sweetness with umami.
2 cloves garlic minced: Fresh garlic brings a pungent, warm bite to the marinade.
1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated: Imparts a fragrant, slightly spicy freshness that wakes up the palate.
1 tablespoon lime juice: Brightens the entire dish with its zesty notes.
1/2 cup coconut milk: Creates a creamy, smooth coconut lime drizzle that cools and complements the chili’s heat.
1 tablespoon honey: Sweetens and thickens the coconut drizzle for a luscious finish.
2 cups cooked jasmine rice: The perfect soft, fluffy base that soaks up all those amazing juices.
1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped: Adds a fresh, herbal pop of green and vibrant flavor.
1 lime cut into wedges: For extra zing and a decorative touch at serving.
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional): A little extra heat for spice lovers.

How to Make Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by whisking together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and lime juice in a medium bowl. This marinade is where your chicken starts absorbing all that mouthwatering sweet, tangy, and aromatic flavor. Toss your boneless chicken thighs or breasts in the mixture, making sure every piece is well-coated, then let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—if you can wait, up to 2 hours intensifies the taste perfectly.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Lay down your marinated chicken and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side. You want to see that beautiful caramelization that seals in the juiciness and adds a delightful charred flavor. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for around 5 minutes to lock in those juices before slicing.

Step 3: Prepare the Coconut Lime Drizzle

While your chicken rests, grab a small saucepan and combine the coconut milk, honey, and an extra splash of lime juice. Simmer the mixture over low heat for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and develop a rich, creamy texture. Watch closely so it doesn’t boil—once thickened, remove from the heat and let it cool slightly to reach the perfect drizzle consistency.

Step 4: Cook the Jasmine Rice

Follow package instructions for cooking your jasmine rice to fluffy perfection. Once done, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains—this makes it a perfect bed for the saucy chicken and drizzle.

Step 5: Assemble Your Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle

It’s time to build your bowl! Start with a generous scoop of warm jasmine rice, layer on the sliced chicken, then lavish it with the luscious coconut lime drizzle. Sprinkle fresh cilantro and optional chili flakes on top, and tuck in a lime wedge for an extra pop of brightness. Serve it warm and watch your bowl of happiness disappear.

How to Serve Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle

Garnishes

Fresh herbs bring brightness to any dish, and cilantro is the perfect companion here. Don’t forget the lime wedges—they not only look inviting but add a zesty kick when squeezed over the bowl right before eating. If you love a little heat, sprinkle some chili flakes on top to amp up the spicy-sweet experience.

Side Dishes

This bowl is quite a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with crunchy cucumber salad or a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can elevate the meal even further. Roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli or snap peas add a nice textural contrast and boost the color on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun spin, serve the Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle in individual mini cast iron skillets or bamboo bowls to wow your guests visually. You can also turn it into lettuce wraps for a lighter, hand-held option that’s perfect for casual gatherings. Layering ingredients artistically by color—chicken, rice, cilantro, and lime wedges—makes this dish as pretty as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. The Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle keeps well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners after a busy day.

Freezing

While the chicken and rice freeze nicely, the coconut lime drizzle is best added fresh after reheating to maintain its creamy texture and bright flavor. Freeze the chicken and rice separately in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken and rice in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Then, pour over a freshly prepared coconut lime drizzle to bring back that irresistible creaminess and citrus zing before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook them to keep the chicken juicy and tender.

Is the coconut lime drizzle spicy?

No, the coconut lime drizzle is creamy and tangy without heat. If you want spice, add chili flakes either in the marinade or as a garnish.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh and follow the same marinade and cooking steps. The flavors will still be vibrant and delicious.

What type of rice works best?

Jasmine rice is ideal for its floral aroma and fluffy texture, but basmati or brown rice can be tasty alternatives.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes gives the chicken a good flavor boost, but for even deeper taste, you can marinate it for up to 2 hours in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. It’s easy, full of incredible flavor contrasts, and downright comforting. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish delivers that perfect balance of sweet, spicy, tangy, and creamy that hits every craving just right. Give it a go—you’ll be so glad you did!

Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 8 reviews

Author: Andria
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

This Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining tender marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection, served over fluffy jasmine rice and topped with a creamy, tangy coconut lime sauce. Garnished with fresh cilantro and optional chili flakes for a spicy kick, this recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and zesty flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual entertaining.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and lime juice. Add the chicken thighs or breasts and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours, to let the flavors infuse.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until the chicken is caramelized on the outside and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Prepare the Coconut Lime Drizzle: In a small saucepan, combine coconut milk, honey, and lime juice. Simmer over low heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cook the Jasmine Rice: Prepare jasmine rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked jasmine rice between bowls. Top with sliced grilled chicken. Drizzle generously with the coconut lime sauce. Garnish with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and sprinkle chili flakes on top if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

For extra heat, add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the coconut lime drizzle.
Chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs for a leaner option, but thighs will be more tender and juicy.
Marinating the chicken longer (up to 2 hours) enhances the flavor but avoid marinating beyond that to prevent mushy texture.
Leftover chicken and sauce can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To keep it gluten free, ensure soy sauce used is gluten-free tamari or substitute with coconut aminos.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling and Simmering
Cuisine: Asian Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 480 kcal
Sugar: 12 g
Sodium: 680 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 35 g
Cholesterol: 95 mg

Keywords: sweet chili chicken, coconut lime sauce, grilled chicken bowl, jasmine rice bowl, easy weeknight dinner, Asian chicken recipe, healthy chicken bowl