This Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle is the kind of dish that checks every box: bold flavor, vibrant colors, and nourishing ingredients that leave you feeling satisfied but light. Think juicy grilled chicken glazed with sweet chili sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice with crisp cucumbers, tangy pickled carrots, and a creamy drizzle that ties everything together in tropical harmony.

Perfect for weeknights, lunch prep, or impressing guests without the stress, this bowl offers a balance of sweet, spicy, salty, and citrus in each bite. It’s also endlessly customizable, allowing you to play with your favorite veggies or swap in your protein of choice. But it’s the coconut lime drizzle that really steals the show and brings all the elements together.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl

This bowl delivers the best of several worlds: Asian-inspired sweetness, tropical zest, and satisfying textures. It’s fresh and hearty at once, and ideal for meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner or a post-gym meal that doesn’t feel like a sacrifice, this one brings flavor with purpose.

The recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even grilled tempeh. The coconut lime drizzle is dairy-free and plant-based, and you can prep most of the components ahead for fast assembly.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great choice for this recipe because they stay juicy and absorb the sweet chili glaze beautifully. If you prefer white meat, chicken breasts also work well—just be sure not to overcook them. If you have grilled or rotisserie chicken on hand, feel free to shortcut the prep and simply toss it in the sweet chili sauce before serving.

Ingredients for the Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle

This bowl brings together a beautiful harmony of heat, sweetness, tang, and creaminess, and each ingredient plays a distinct role. From the sticky sweet chili glaze to the cooling lime drizzle, everything layers into a perfect bite.

Chicken thighs
Sweet chili sauce
Cooked jasmine rice
Cucumber
Pickled carrots
Coconut milk
Lime juice and zest
Garlic
Fresh cilantro
Avocado oil or olive oil
Salt and pepper

Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle 2

How To Make the Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. During the last few minutes, add sweet chili sauce and toss to coat, letting it caramelize slightly.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

Prepare jasmine rice according to package directions. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Coconut Lime Drizzle

In a small bowl, mix coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, and finely minced garlic. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Season with a pinch of salt to balance the tartness.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

In each bowl, add a bed of jasmine rice. Layer on sweet chili chicken, sliced cucumbers, and pickled carrots. Drizzle generously with the coconut lime sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped fresh cilantro and an extra squeeze of lime if desired. Serve immediately while warm, or store components separately for meal prep.

How to Serve and Store This Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl

This bowl is best served freshly assembled when the chicken is still warm and the drizzle is cool and creamy. It creates a refreshing contrast that makes each bite burst with flavor. If you’re meal-prepping, you can store the components separately and assemble when ready to eat. The chicken and rice can be stored in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. The coconut lime drizzle also holds well for several days, so it’s a great make-ahead sauce.

This recipe comfortably serves 4 people. You can easily double the batch for a larger gathering or portion it into containers for grab-and-go lunches.

What to Serve With Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl?

Steamed Edamame with Sea Salt

A simple side of edamame lightly salted is the perfect pairing to this dish’s vibrant profile. It adds protein and crunch.

Spicy Mango Slaw

A crisp, tangy slaw made with shredded cabbage, mango slices, and a squeeze of lime juice brings a punch of freshness and a bit more tropical flair.

Garlic Sesame Broccoli

Lightly sautéed or roasted broccoli tossed in garlic and sesame oil makes a bold and balanced side dish that complements the bowl’s savory elements.

Fresh Spring Rolls

Rice paper rolls filled with herbs, noodles, and veggies make for a cooling, hands-on side that’s great with a peanut or hoisin dip.

Kimchi or Fermented Veggies

Adding a spoonful of kimchi or your favorite fermented vegetables boosts both flavor and gut health.

Crispy Wonton Chips

Serve a few crispy wonton chips on the side for texture and dipping into any extra coconut lime drizzle.

Thai Iced Tea or Sparkling Limeade

Round out your meal with something cool and sippable that matches the brightness of the dish.

Coconut Pineapple Popsicles

For dessert, a frozen treat like coconut pineapple pops brings the meal full circle in flavor and theme.

Want More Chicken Bowl Ideas?

If you’re loving this Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl, you’ll want to try a few more easy and flavor-packed meals that follow a similar vibe:

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl if you want comforting herbs and savory goodness.
Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl for a spicy, protein-rich twist.
Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce if you’re into bold garlic flavor with silky creaminess.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken when you’re craving a crispy and cheesy texture.
Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice for a buttery, savory option that hits all the comfort notes.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s easy to revisit when you need a fresh and vibrant meal that satisfies.

And let me know in the comments how you made it your own. Did you add extra veggies or swap the chicken for tofu? What toppings made it special for you?

I always love hearing about the creative ways you make these recipes yours. Questions and tips welcome too — let’s make every bowl better together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and everyday recipes over on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find even more favorites to love.

Conclusion

Sweet, spicy, creamy, and crisp — this Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle brings together such a satisfying variety of textures and tastes. It’s one of those recipes you keep in your back pocket for days when you want something fast, delicious, and a little special. Once you taste that drizzle, you’ll know why it’s a keeper.