Save to Pinterest Transport your senses to the heart of Southeast Asia with this Thai Chicken Coconut Bowl. This dish is a masterclass in balance, combining the creamy, comforting texture of coconut-infused jasmine rice with the bold, savory notes of ginger-garlic chicken and the refreshing crunch of blanched vegetables.
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The aromatic blend of Thai basil and cilantro, paired with the zesty lime juice, creates a bright finish that cuts through the richness of the coconut milk. It is a vibrant bowl that looks just as good as it tastes, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.
Ingredients
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- Coconut Rice: 1 cup jasmine rice (rinsed), 1 cup full-fat coconut milk, 1 cup water, 1/2 tsp salt.
- Chicken: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts (bite-sized), 1 tbsp vegetable oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger, 1 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tbsp soy sauce (gluten-free), 1 tsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground white pepper, juice of 1 lime.
- Vegetables & Herbs: 1 thinly sliced red bell pepper, 1 cup sugar snap peas (trimmed), 1 julienned medium carrot, 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 1/4 cup torn Thai basil leaves, 2 thinly sliced green onions, 1 optional thinly sliced red chili.
- Garnish: 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts, extra lime wedges.
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Coconut Rice
- In a saucepan, combine jasmine rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes until tender. Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, and fluff with a fork.
- 2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Sauté garlic and ginger for 1 minute. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through (6-7 minutes). Stir in fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, white pepper, and lime juice. Toss to coat and remove from heat.
- 3. Prepare the Vegetables
- Blanch sugar snap peas and carrots in boiling water for 1 minute; drain and rinse under cold water. Keep the red bell pepper raw to maintain its crunch.
- 4. Assemble and Garnish
- Divide coconut rice among 4 bowls. Top with chicken, bell pepper, snap peas, and carrot. Sprinkle with cilantro, Thai basil, green onion, and chili if desired. Top with chopped peanuts and serve with lime wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, ensure you use a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid for the rice to steam properly. Using a large skillet or wok for the chicken allows for better heat distribution, ensuring the meat sears beautifully without steaming in its own juices.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
To create a vegetarian version of this bowl, simply substitute the chicken with firm tofu cubes and replace the fish sauce with an equal amount of soy sauce. You can also adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the amount of sliced red chili used in the assembly.
Serviervorschläge
This aromatic meal pairs beautifully with a crisp, chilled Riesling or a traditional Thai iced tea. The slight sweetness of these beverages complements the herbal Thai basil and the creamy coconut rice perfectly.
Save to Pinterest Whether you are looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or a vibrant dish to impress, this Thai Chicken Coconut Bowl is a satisfying and flavorful choice that brings the best of Thai cuisine to your table. Enjoy the fusion of fresh herbs and creamy coconut in every spoonful!
Recipe Questions
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Substitute chicken with firm tofu and replace fish sauce with additional soy sauce or vegetarian fish sauce alternative.
- → How spicy is this bowl?
Mild to medium heat depending on whether you include the optional red chili. Adjust spice level by adding more or less fresh chili.
- → What rice works best?
Jasmine rice is traditional and absorbs the coconut milk beautifully. Basmati or long-grain white rice are suitable alternatives.
- → Can I prepare components ahead?
Yes, cook rice and chicken up to 2 days ahead. Store separately and reheat gently. Prepare vegetables fresh for best texture.
- → Is this gluten-free?
Naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free soy sauce. Verify all condiments are certified gluten-free if avoiding gluten.
- → What protein alternatives work?
Shrimp, beef strips, or roasted chickpeas complement these flavors well. Adjust cooking time accordingly.