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Coconut Chicken Bowl | High Protein Dinner for Healthy Meal Prep

Looking for an easy Chicken Bowl Recipe that's packed with flavor? This Coconut Chicken Bowl combines tender chicken, creamy coconut sauce, and fluffy rice for a satisfying High Protein Dinner. Perfect for Healthy Meal Prep, this comforting bowl is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and ideal for busy weeknights.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Keyword: The Best Coconut Chicken Rice Bowl
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
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Ingredients
Chicken
  • 1 1/2 lbs diced chicken breast
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or dried herbs
Sauce
  • 1/2 onion, minced
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger, or more to taste (I added 1 tablespoon)
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1 1/4 cup canned light coconut milk, from 1 can
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
For Serving
  • fresh cilantro
  • 3 cups cooked jasmine rice or basmati
  • more coconut milk, optional for topping
Instructions
  1. Combine the chicken with the salt, paprika, and dried herbs to season.
  2. Heat a large skillet over high heat and lightly coat it with cooking spray. Add the chicken in a single layer and sear for 3–5 minutes until browned.
  3. Remove the chicken from the pan. Reduce the heat and apply another mist of oil. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook for 1 minute. Pour in the broth to loosen any browned bits on the bottom.
  4. Let the mixture simmer for about a minute, then stir in the tomato paste, coconut milk, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
  5. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer so it can thicken slightly. Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Cook over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes.
  6. Spoon the chicken and sauce over jasmine rice. Top with cilantro and a drizzle of extra coconut milk if you’d like.
Variations
  • Chicken: Can be replaced with chicken thighs.
  • Protein Swap: Works with tofu or shrimp (adjust cooking time accordingly).
  • Vegetarian Version: Omit chicken, use vegetable broth, and add tofu plus vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers.
  • Curry Twist: Mix in some red curry paste for a coconut-curry style sauce.
  • Herb Options: If cilantro isn’t your thing, use scallions instead—or skip herbs entirely.
  • Different Grains: Serve over brown rice, quinoa, or any cooked grain you prefer.
Nutrition
Calories: 429 kcal | Carbohydrates: 40 g | Protein: 40 g | Fat: 10 g | Saturated Fat: 5 g | Cholesterol: 124 mg | Sodium: 562 mg | Fiber: 1.5 g | Sugar: 4 g
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