Sweet Chili Chicken Rice Bowls

why make this recipe

Sweet Chili Chicken Rice Bowls are a fantastic meal choice because they are easy to prepare and full of flavor. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with sweet and spicy sauce, served over fluffy rice. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, and it’s great for meal prep, too. The balance of savory and sweet flavors makes it a hit for both kids and adults.

how to make Sweet Chili Chicken Rice Bowls

Ingredients:

  • Chicken thighs
  • Rice
  • Sweet chili sauce
  • Soy sauce
  • Garlic
  • Green onions
  • Vegetable oil
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Directions:

  1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
  2. In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
  3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet.
  4. Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
  5. In a small bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
  6. Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken and let simmer for a few minutes.
  7. Serve the chicken over the rice, garnished with sliced green onions.

how to serve Sweet Chili Chicken Rice Bowls

Serve the Sweet Chili Chicken Rice Bowls hot, directly from the skillet or plated on individual bowls. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch and extra flavor. You can also pair the dish with a side of steamed vegetables to add some colors and nutrients.

how to store Sweet Chili Chicken Rice Bowls

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply use a microwave or heat them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

tips to make Sweet Chili Chicken Rice Bowls

  • For extra crunch, add some chopped nuts or sesame seeds on top when serving.
  • You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer a leaner option.
  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sweet chili sauce based on your taste.
  • Make it spicier by adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.

variation

You can easily turn this dish into a vegetarian option by using tofu or tempeh instead of chicken. Just follow the same cooking steps, and ensure the tofu is well-pressed to avoid excess moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free due to soy sauce. You can substitute soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative like tamari.

3. How can I make the dish less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, use less sweet chili sauce and add a little more soy sauce to get a balanced flavor. You can also add a splash of lime juice for acidity.

Sweet Chili Chicken Rice Bowls

A delicious blend of tender chicken thighs and sweet chili sauce served over fluffy rice, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Thai
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Chicken thighs Boneless, skinless recommended
  • 2 cups Rice Use white or brown rice
  • 1/2 cup Sweet chili sauce Adjust sweetness to taste
  • 1/4 cup Soy sauce Use gluten-free alternative if needed
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 2 stalks Green onions Sliced for garnish
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable oil For cooking
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
  2. In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
  3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet.
Cooking
  1. Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
  2. In a small bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
  3. Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken and let simmer for a few minutes.
Serving
  1. Serve the chicken over the rice, garnished with sliced green onions.
  2. For extra crunch, add some chopped nuts or sesame seeds on top when serving.

Notes

If stored, keep in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a microwave or skillet. Use tofu for a vegetarian option.