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A close-up shot of juicy, browned chicken pieces being stirred in a creamy coconut sauce in a black skillet, showing the texture of the dish.

Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl (The Easiest, Most Flavorful Recipe!)

This Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl features tender chicken in a creamy coconut-lime sauce served over fluffy coconut rice. A delicious, customizable, and easy 30-minute meal perfect for any weeknight dinner and great for meal prep.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Thai-inspired
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Coconut Rice
  • 1.5 cups Jasmine rice rinsed well
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 cup water
  • 0.5 tsp salt
For the Coconut Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
  • 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
For Garnish
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Green onions, sliced
  • Lime wedges

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Medium Saucepan with Lid
  • 1 Knife and Cutting Board

Method
 

  1. Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 1 can of coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let steam, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
  2. While rice cooks, pat the chicken thighs dry and cut into 1-inch pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and ginger and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the second can of coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, and honey. Whisk to combine and bring to a simmer.
  6. Whisk the cornstarch slurry into the sauce. Continue whisking for 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
  8. Serve the coconut chicken over the fluffy coconut rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, and lime wedges.

Notes

Tip 1: Be sure to use full-fat, canned coconut milk for the creamiest and most flavorful result.
Tip 2: Rinsing the rice is crucial for achieving a fluffy texture.
Tip 3: For a gluten-free version, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.