Chicken and Rice Bowl

Chicken and Rice Bowl

4 servings
This chicken and rice bowl is the perfect dish for summer. It combines sweet and spicy grilled chicken with sweet coconut rice, fresh mango salsa, and creamy avocado. Enjoy it as an easy dinner or perfect for meal prep. Gluten-free, dairy-free, and high protein.

Ingredients

  • chicken thighs
    1 ½ lb
  • coconut aminos
    ¼ c
  • lime juice
    ¼ c
  • garlic
    3 clove
  • chili powder
    2 tsp
  • smoked paprika
    1 ½ tsp
  • cumin
    1 ½ tsp
  • red pepper flakes

    use less for less spicy

    1 tsp
  • salt
    ¼ tsp
  • pepper
    ¼ tsp
  • white rice
    1 c
  • 13.5-ounce can full-fat coconut milk
    1
  • salt
    1 pinch
  • mango cucumber salsa

    1/2 batch

    2 c
  • chopped romaine
    4 c
  • avocado
    1 small
  • for serving - lime juice

    fresh cilantro

Directions

  1. 1

    Make the chicken marinade. Mix together the marinade ingredients in a jar.

  2. 2

    Marinate the chicken. Add chicken thighs to a baking dish or plastic bag and pour over the marinade, making sure to coat all sides evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, up to 24 hours (the longer the better).

  3. 3

    While the chicken marinates, make the salsa. Let chill in the fridge until ready to assemble.

  4. 4

    When your chicken is almost done marinating, make your rice. Place rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse for 1-2 minutes until the water runs clear. Instant Pot - add your white rice, coconut milk, and salt to your instant pot. Stir well to combine. Close the instant pot lid and set the valve to seal. Place it on the manual setting on high pressure and set it to 3 minutes. Once done, let the pressure naturally release for 10-15 minutes. Manually release the remaining pressure (if needed). Stovetop - combine rice, coconut milk, and salt in a saucepan. Cover with a lid and bring to a boil. Remove the lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes or until desired doneness (15 minutes will be more al dente and creamier, 20 minutes will be softer and the liquid fully absorbed).

  5. 5

    Grill your chicken. Heat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450 degrees). Once hot, place chicken close to direct heat and grill for 6-8 minutes. Flip and move to indirect heat (not directly over fire/coals) and cook for another 5-10 minutes depending on how thick your thighs are, or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.

  6. 6

    Assemble the bowls. Evenly divide the rice, romaine, grilled chicken, mango salsa, and avocado. I like to top them with fresh lime juice and fresh cilantro.

  7. 7

    Enjoy!

Chicken and Rice Bowl

Chicken and Rice Bowl

75 min4 servings631 cal

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About this Recipe

Your New Go-To Summer Meal: The Ultimate Chicken and Rice Bowl

Craving a meal that's bursting with vibrant flavors, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for warm weather? Look no further than this amazing Chicken and Rice Bowl! This isn't just any dinner; it's a delightful symphony of sweet and spicy grilled chicken, creamy coconut rice, fresh mango salsa, and luscious avocado – all coming together for an unforgettable experience. It's the ideal easy dinner solution and a fantastic option for your weekly meal prep.

What makes this Chicken rice bowl truly special is the thoughtful combination of textures and tastes. Imagine tender chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of coconut aminos, lime juice, garlic, and a hint of chili powder and smoked paprika, then grilled to perfection. This sweet and spicy chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy, subtly sweet coconut rice, offering a tropical twist on a classic base. The fresh mango cucumber salsa adds a bright, tangy crunch, while creamy avocado brings a rich, smooth element, making every bite a balanced delight.

Tips for the Perfect Grilled Chicken Bowl

This versatile grilled chicken bowl is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, plus it's packed with high-quality protein to keep you feeling full and energized. Here are a few ways to customize and enhance your bowl:

  • Chicken Variations: While grilled chicken thighs offer incredible flavor and juiciness, you can certainly substitute them with chicken breast. If grilling isn't an option, you can bake or pan-sear the chicken until cooked through.
  • Rice Swaps: For a different twist, try brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
  • Salsa Shortcuts: If you're short on time, a good quality store-bought mango salsa can work, but making your own fresh version is always recommended for that vibrant taste!
  • Extra Veggies: Feel free to load up your bowl with extra greens, sliced bell peppers, or even some corn for added texture and nutrients.

Serve your Chicken and Rice Bowl with an extra squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for that final burst of freshness. It’s a complete, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal that you’ll want to make again and again!

Frequently Asked Questions