Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl

Here’s a flavorful and easy recipe for a Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl:

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Coconut Sauce:
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk (full fat or light)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
• For the Rice Bowl:
• 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas or snow peas
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges (for serving)
• Chopped peanuts or cashews (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken:

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Season the chicken pieces with curry powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

1. Make the Coconut Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Pour in the coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, and lime juice. Stir to combine.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch mixture and stir until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

1. Cook the Vegetables:

• Add the sliced bell pepper, snap peas, and julienned carrot to the skillet with the coconut sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.

1. Assemble the Rice Bowls:

• Divide the cooked rice between serving bowls.
• Top each bowl with the coconut chicken and vegetable mixture.

1. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish the bowls with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and chopped peanuts or cashews if desired.
• Serve immediately and enjoy your Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl!

This dish is creamy, aromatic, and packed with fresh flavors, making it a perfect meal for any night of the week.