Name: Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds boneless chicken thighs; ½ cup sweet chili sauce; ½ cup coconut milk; 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 3 cups cooked white rice; ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro; 2 tablespoons chopped scallions; 1 teaspoon grated garlic (optional); 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

Succulent grilled chicken glazed in a sticky sweet chili sauce, nestled over a bed of fluffy white rice, and finished with a creamy coconut lime drizzle – this bowl is a flavor explosion you won’t soon forget. Fresh herbs, citrusy brightness, and that perfect hit of heat and sweetness make every bite irresistible.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep idea with bold flavor, this Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl checks every box. It’s simple to prepare, endlessly customizable, and packs restaurant-quality taste into a one-bowl wonder.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle

Balanced Flavors: A perfect harmony of spicy, sweet, savory, and tangy.
Quick & Easy: Minimal prep with maximum payoff — ready in under 30 minutes.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and store for effortless lunches.
Customizable: Great with brown rice, noodles, or even lettuce wraps.
Family Favorite: Kid-approved and always a hit at the dinner table.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Making this bowl doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just smart essentials:

Cast Iron Skillet or Grill Pan: For searing the chicken and getting that charred, flavorful crust.
Mixing Bowls: One for marinating the chicken and another for blending the drizzle.
Small Saucepan (Optional): If you prefer to warm up your sweet chili sauce before glazing.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for slicing chicken and prepping herbs with precision.
Citrus Juicer: To maximize fresh lime juice without mess.
Blender or Whisk: For achieving a silky-smooth coconut lime drizzle.

Each tool helps streamline the process and enhances the texture or flavor in the final dish.

Ingredients for the Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle

Boneless Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, they absorb marinades well and stay tender when grilled.
Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds a sticky, spicy-sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken.
Coconut Milk: The base for our drizzle, lending creaminess and tropical depth.
Fresh Lime Juice: Brightens the coconut sauce and balances the sweet heat.
Cooked White Rice: A fluffy base to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Fresh Cilantro & Scallions: For a fresh herbal finish and crunch.
Garlic & Ginger (Optional): Add aromatic depth if you’re marinating the chicken.
Salt & Pepper: To season the chicken before cooking.

How To Make the Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix sweet chili sauce, a touch of lime juice, and optional garlic and ginger. Coat chicken thighs and let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to overnight).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat your cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until deeply charred and fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Coconut Lime Drizzle

Blend or whisk together coconut milk, lime juice, a pinch of salt, and a little leftover chili sauce until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Add a scoop of rice to your bowl. Top with sliced chicken, a generous drizzle of coconut lime sauce, and garnish with chopped cilantro and scallions.

Serving and Storing the Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl

These bowls are best served fresh and warm, but they also hold up well for meal prep. Simply store the chicken, rice, and drizzle separately in airtight containers. When ready to enjoy, reheat the rice and chicken, then add the drizzle and toppings fresh.

Refrigerated, the components stay fresh for up to 4 days. For freezing, skip the herbs and drizzle and add those fresh after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is sweet chili sauce?

Sweet chili sauce has a mild heat balanced by sugar, making it kid-friendly and not overwhelmingly spicy.

Can I use chicken breast instead?

Yes! Chicken breast works well too, but consider slicing it thinly or pounding it flat for quicker, more even cooking.

What can I substitute for coconut milk?

Greek yogurt or sour cream thinned with lime juice can offer a creamy alternative if you prefer a dairy-based drizzle.

Is this gluten-free?

It can be! Just check that your chili sauce and any condiments used are certified gluten-free.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely. It’s one of the best dishes to prep ahead. Just keep the drizzle separate until serving to avoid sogginess.

How do I get that charred look on the chicken?

Use high heat and don’t overcrowd your pan. A little sugar in the marinade helps create that caramelized crust.

Want More Chicken Bowl Ideas?

If you love this Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl, here are more protein-packed bowls and chicken recipes to explore:

Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a hand-held twist on creamy chicken.
Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce when you want ultra-comforting flavors.
Tzatziki Chicken Veggie Naan Pizza to add a Mediterranean spin.
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for a decadent combo of sweet heat and creamy cheese.
Bang Bang Chicken Recipe for a spicier, mayo-based variation with bold Thai flair.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add avocado or go extra spicy? Did you use jasmine rice or switch it up with noodles?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.