Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl

The first time I made this sweet chili chicken, my husband took three bites in complete silence before finally looking up with that expression that says everything. The name "Marry Me" started as a joke between friends after someone literally proposed following a dinner party, but honestly the combination of that sticky sweet glaze against the cool coconut lime drizzle does something kind of magical to people.

Last summer I served these bowls at a casual patio dinner when friends dropped by unexpectedly. I was already in my sweatpants ready for a quiet night, but the way everyone kept reaching across the table for "just one more bite" turned it into this beautiful laughter filled evening that stretched until midnight.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Thighs stay juicier but breasts work perfectly if that is what you have on hand
• Cornstarch: This creates that gorgeous glossy coating on the chicken that helps the sauce cling to every bite
• Sweet chili sauce: The backbone of the whole dish look for one with a bit of heat if you like things spicy
• Coconut milk: Full fat canned coconut milk makes the drizzle luxuriously creamy and balances the heat beautifully
• Fresh limes: Both the juice and zest are non negotiable here they cut through the richness and brighten everything
• Purple cabbage: Adds this incredible crunch and color that makes the bowls look absolutely stunning

Instructions

Prep the chicken:

Cut your chicken into uniform bite sized pieces so they cook evenly then pat them completely dry with paper towels

Season and coat:

Toss the chicken pieces with salt and pepper then sprinkle with cornstarch until every piece is lightly dusted

Sear to golden:

Heat oil in your largest skillet over medium high heat until shimmering then add chicken in a single layer letting it develop a deep golden crust before flipping

Whisk the glaze:

While chicken sears stir together sweet chili sauce soy sauce rice vinegar honey ginger and garlic until smooth

Glaze everything:

Return chicken to the pan pour over that incredible sauce and toss until each piece is coated and sticky

Make the magic drizzle:

Whisk coconut milk with lime juice lime zest honey and a pinch of salt until silky smooth

Build your bowls:

Start with fluffy rice then arrange chicken and vegetables in sections so every forkful gets a little of everything

Finish with flair:

Drizzle that coconut lime sauce generously then shower with cilantro sesame seeds and lime wedges

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These bowls have become my go to when I want to make someone feel special without spending hours in the kitchen. There is something about the contrast of hot sticky chicken against cool crisp vegetables that makes it feel like a complete thoughtful meal.

Make It Your Own

Sometimes I swap in shredded brussels sprouts or thinly sliced bell peppers depending what is in my crisper drawer. The formula stays the same as long as you have something fresh and crunchy to balance that rich glazed chicken.

Rice Wisdom

Jasmine rice is my default here because its floral notes play so nicely with the coconut but brown rice adds this wonderful nuttiness that grounds the sweeter elements. Just remember brown rice takes longer so plan accordingly.

Serving Strategy

I learned to put the coconut lime drizzle in a small pitcher on the table instead of pouring it myself. People have wildly different preferences for how much they want and letting everyone customize their own bowl feels more generous somehow.

• Warm the bowls before serving if you want the dish to stay hot longer
• Extra lime wedges on the side let people brighten their portion to taste
• The sauce thickens as it stands so thin it with a splash of water if needed

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Hope these bowls bring as many joyfull unexpected moments to your table as they have to mine.

Recipe Q&A

→ How do I achieve a glossy glaze on the chicken?

Coat the chicken evenly with cornstarch before cooking and toss in the sweet chili mixture, allowing it to thicken while warm for a sticky, shiny finish.

→ Can I substitute jasmine rice with other grains?

Yes, brown rice or quinoa can be used for a nuttier texture and added fiber while maintaining the dish’s integrity.

→ What adds creaminess to the bowl?

The coconut milk blended with lime juice and zest creates a tangy, smooth drizzle that balances the spicy-sweet chicken components.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Incorporate sriracha into the coconut lime drizzle or add extra fresh ginger for a spicier, warming kick.

→ What garnishes enhance this bowl?

Fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds add vibrant herbal notes and a crunchy texture contrast.

→ Is this bowl suitable for dairy-free diets?

Yes, all components use dairy-free ingredients, including coconut milk, making it a friendly option for dairy sensitivities.