Coconut Chicken Rice Bowls – Easy, High-Protein Meal Prep Favorite

Some recipes feel like a small escape, even when you’re eating them at your kitchen table on a busy weeknight. These Coconut Chicken Rice Bowls are exactly that kind of dish. Inspired by warm, comforting flavors found in many traditional kitchens around the world, this recipe brings together tender chicken, fragrant coconut rice, and gently spiced seasonings into a bowl that feels both cozy and uplifting. It’s simple food, made with care, and designed to fuel you well.

What makes this dish especially special is how effortlessly it fits into real life. It’s high in protein, balanced with wholesome carbohydrates, and rich enough to feel satisfying without being heavy. The coconut milk adds natural creaminess and depth, while lean chicken keeps the meal filling and nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or preparing meals for the days ahead, this recipe is reliable, forgiving, and deeply comforting.

Meal prep favorites earn their place by being delicious even after reheating, and this bowl truly shines there. The flavors deepen over time, the rice stays tender, and the chicken remains juicy. It’s the kind of recipe that brings calm to busy weeks—cook once, eat well for days, and always look forward to what’s waiting in the fridge. Simple ingredients, respectful flavors, and a warm, home-cooked feel make these Coconut Chicken Rice Bowls a dish you’ll come back to again and again.

Ingredients:

For the Coconut Rice

• 1 ½ cups jasmine or basmati rice
• 1 cup full-fat or light coconut milk
• 1 cup water or low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ tsp salt

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp paprika
• Optional: ½ tsp curry powder for extra warmth

For the Bowl Add-Ins

• 1 cup cucumber, sliced or diced
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• ½ cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ cup green onions, chopped
• Optional: steamed broccoli or green beans

Optional Simple Coconut Drizzle

• ¼ cup coconut milk
• 1 tsp lime juice
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. This helps create light, fluffy grains. Add the rice to a medium saucepan along with coconut milk, water or broth, and salt.
2. Bring the rice mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork and set aside.
3. While the rice cooks, prepare the chicken. Pat the chicken dry and cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, ginger, paprika, and curry powder if using.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden on the outside and fully cooked through.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and let the chicken rest in the pan for a minute. This helps keep it juicy and allows the spices to settle into the meat.
6. If making the coconut drizzle, whisk coconut milk, lime juice, and salt together in a small bowl until smooth. This step is optional but adds a lovely finishing touch.
7. To assemble the bowls, start with a generous scoop of coconut rice at the bottom. Top with cooked chicken, then arrange fresh vegetables around the bowl for color, crunch, and balance.
8. Spoon a little of the coconut drizzle over the top if desired, and finish with chopped green onions for freshness.
9. Serve warm or allow to cool completely before storing for meal prep.

Nutritional Information:

These Coconut Chicken Rice Bowls are thoughtfully balanced to support energy, fullness, and flavor. The chicken provides lean, high-quality protein, while coconut milk adds healthy fats that help keep you satisfied. Rice offers steady energy, and the fresh vegetables contribute fiber, vitamins, and natural crunch. It’s a complete meal that feels indulgent while still being nourishing and practical.

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 30 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 45 minutes

⚡ Calories per serving: ~480
🍽️ Servings: 4 servings

For meal prep, divide the bowls into airtight containers once cooled. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a small splash of water or coconut milk to refresh the rice if needed.

These bowls are wonderfully adaptable. You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu, add a spoon of mango salsa for sweetness, or sprinkle toasted coconut on top for extra texture. Keep the base simple and make it your own.

At its heart, Coconut Chicken Rice Bowls are about comfort, nourishment, and ease. They remind us that good food doesn’t need to be complicated—just thoughtfully prepared and shared with care. Whether you’re eating straight from a meal prep container or serving it fresh at the table, this dish delivers warmth, flavor, and satisfaction every single time. 🌴💛

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Bon appétit and happy cooking!