Sweet Chili Chicken Rice Bowl is a delightful fusion of bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Featuring tender chicken glazed with sweet chili sauce, paired with fluffy rice and fresh vegetables, this dish is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: You can add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients for a balanced meal.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Thighs or Breasts | 1.5 lbs | Cut into bite-sized pieces |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp | For cooking |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
For the Sweet Chili Sauce:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Chili Sauce | ½ cup | Store-bought or homemade |
| Soy Sauce | 2 tbsp | Adds a savory depth |
| Lime Juice | 1 tbsp | Freshly squeezed |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Ginger | 1 tsp | Grated |
For the Rice Bowl:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked Rice | 4 cups | White, brown, or jasmine |
| Cucumber | 1 cup | Sliced |
| Carrot | 1 cup | Julienned |
| Red Bell Pepper | 1 cup | Thinly sliced |
| Green Onions | ¼ cup | Sliced, for garnish |
| Sesame Seeds | 1 tbsp | Optional, for garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sweet Chili Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
3. Assemble the Rice Bowl:
- Divide the cooked rice among serving bowls.
- Arrange the cucumber, carrot, and red bell pepper around the bowl.
- Top with the sweet chili chicken.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and lime juice make a big difference in flavor.
- Adjust the Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce if you prefer extra spice.
- Meal Prep: Store components separately for easy assembly during the week.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh.
- Low-Carb: Swap rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa.
- Add More Veggies: Include broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini for more variety.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~450 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fat | 12g |
FAQs
Can I use store-bought sweet chili sauce?
Yes, store-bought sweet chili sauce works perfectly, but feel free to make your own for a personal touch.
What can I serve with this rice bowl?
It pairs well with a side of miso soup or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Store the chicken, rice, and vegetables separately in airtight containers. Reheat the chicken and rice before assembling.
Conclusion
Sweet Chili Chicken Rice Bowl is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, this meal is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it tonight and savor the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy!