Julia Walton
Tender, juicy chicken glazed in a sticky-sweet chili sauce, paired with fluffy jasmine rice, crisp fresh veggies, and a creamy coconut lime drizzle — this bowl is a perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Every bite offers a satisfying crunch from the toppings, a zesty pop from the lime, and a rich creaminess from the sauce. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary dinner into something worth remembering.
This recipe is all about balance: the smoky char on the chicken, the cool freshness of diced tomatoes, the tropical notes from coconut milk, and the gentle heat from sweet chili sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress friends at your next get-together, this vibrant bowl delivers both flavor and flair without requiring hours in the kitchen.
What Makes the Perfect Sweet Chili Chicken?
For this dish, you want chicken that’s juicy on the inside and slightly caramelized on the outside. Using boneless skinless chicken thighs is a smart move — they’re more forgiving than breasts and stay tender even if you cook them a bit longer to get that deep char. Marinating in sweet chili sauce not only infuses the meat with flavor but also helps create that glossy, irresistible coating once cooked.
Ingredients for the Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs — They stay moist and soak up the sweet chili marinade beautifully.
- Sweet chili sauce — Brings the perfect balance of sweetness and heat to the chicken.
- Coconut milk — Adds creamy tropical richness to the drizzle.
- Fresh lime juice — Brightens the sauce and enhances the overall flavor.
- Jasmine rice — A fragrant base that complements the bold toppings.
- Fresh tomatoes — Provide color and a burst of freshness.
- Green onions and chives — Offer mild sharpness and a pop of green.
- Soy sauce — Adds umami depth to the marinade.
- Olive oil — Helps the chicken sear evenly.
- Salt & pepper — Basic seasonings to balance all the flavors.
How To Make the Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Place boneless skinless chicken thighs in a shallow dish. Pour over the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and a drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Jasmine Rice
While the chicken marinates, rinse the jasmine rice until the water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions, then fluff with a fork. Keep warm.
Step 3: Sear and Glaze the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil, then place the marinated chicken thighs in the pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until fully cooked and caramelized. Pour in any remaining marinade and let it bubble until slightly thickened, coating the chicken.
Step 4: Prepare the Coconut Lime Drizzle
In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Adjust lime juice to taste — you want a tangy, bright finish.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Divide jasmine rice between serving bowls. Top with sliced sweet chili chicken, fresh diced tomatoes, and chopped green onions or chives. Drizzle generously with the coconut lime sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Add extra lime wedges for squeezing and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for crunch if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Serving and Storing Your Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl
This dish is best served fresh when the chicken is juicy, the rice is fluffy, and the drizzle is cool and creamy. If you have leftovers, store the chicken, rice, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and rice gently in the microwave, and drizzle the cold coconut lime sauce over the top before serving.
What to Serve With Sweet Chili Chicken Bowls?
Steamed Broccoli
The mild crunch and fresh taste pair perfectly with the sweet and spicy chicken.
Asian Slaw
A crisp cabbage slaw with rice vinegar dressing adds tang and crunch.
Garlic Green Beans
Quickly stir-fried green beans with garlic bring a savory side.
Cucumber Salad
A cool, refreshing salad balances the heat from the chili sauce.
Mango Salsa
Adds sweet tropical notes and vibrant color to the plate.
Edamame with Sea Salt
A simple, protein-rich snack to complement your meal.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
For a hearty, slightly sweet contrast.
Want More Chicken Bowl Ideas?
If you love this Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl, you might also enjoy these flavor-packed options:
- Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce for a seafood twist.
- Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight for a lean, hearty option.
- Chicken Spinach and Mushroom for cozy one-pan cooking.
- Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs if you want sweet-savory baked chicken.
- Tex-Mex Salad for a fresh and zesty bowl alternative.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to make it again.
Tried a variation? Maybe you swapped the rice for quinoa or added grilled pineapple? Share your twist in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes. Your next favorite recipe might be waiting there.
Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sesame seeds, lime wedges
Instructions
- Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish and add sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Marinate for 20 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Rinse jasmine rice until water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions, then fluff with a fork.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil, and cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until caramelized. Add leftover marinade and let it bubble until thickened.
- Whisk coconut milk, lime juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Adjust lime to taste.
- Assemble bowls with rice, chicken, tomatoes, and green onions. Drizzle with coconut lime sauce.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and lime wedges if desired.