Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl Recipe with Coconut Lime Sauce

Posted on November 13, 2025

sweet chili chicken bowl - featured image

The first time I made this Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle, I knew it was a keeper. Imagine tender, juicy chicken coated in a sticky, sweet chili glaze served over a bed of fluffy rice and fresh veggies. Topped off with a creamy coconut lime sauce that ties the flavors together, every bite is a little party in your mouth. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s bursting with flavor, easy to whip up, and perfect for busy weeknights, this one checks all the boxes.

What makes this dish special is how beautifully the sweet and spicy chicken pairs with the zesty, refreshing drizzle. Honestly, it’s the kind of meal where you’ll find yourself scraping every last drop off your plate. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or impressing guests, this bowl is guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, it’s super customizable—swap the veggies, adjust the spice, or even make it low-carb. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot on your weekly rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Bold Flavors: Sweet chili sauce delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, while the coconut lime drizzle adds a creamy, tangy finish.
Simple Ingredients: No fancy ingredients required! Most items are pantry staples or easy to find at your local store.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap out the veggies, or choose your favorite rice or grain base.
Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and veggies, this bowl is as nutritious as it is satisfying.

This recipe stands out because of the coconut lime drizzle—it’s not just a sauce; it’s the magic touch that elevates every bite. The first time I made it, I thought, “Why haven’t I been putting this on everything?” It’s that good! Plus, the sweet chili chicken is perfectly caramelized with just the right amount of stickiness, making it irresistible.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together for an explosion of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the sweet chili chicken:

Chicken breasts or thighs: Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Sweet chili sauce: The star of the show! Choose your favorite brand or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
Soy sauce or tamari: Adds a salty, umami kick.
Garlic: Freshly minced for maximum flavor.
Honey: For added sweetness and a sticky glaze.
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce and coat the chicken evenly.

For the coconut lime drizzle:

Coconut milk: Full-fat for a creamy texture.
Lime juice: Freshly squeezed for that tangy zing.
Lime zest: Adds extra brightness and depth.
Honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess.
Salt: Just a pinch to round out the flavors.

For the bowl:

Rice or quinoa: Cooked and fluffed—choose white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Vegetables: Fresh veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, shredded carrots, and edamame work beautifully here.
Green onions or cilantro: For garnish and a pop of color.
Optional toppings: Sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, or a drizzle of extra sweet chili sauce.

Feel free to substitute or adjust based on what you have on hand—this recipe is super forgiving!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy gadgets for this recipe, but here’s a list of tools that will make things easier:

Large skillet: For cooking the chicken and caramelizing the sauce.
Small saucepan: To whisk together the coconut lime drizzle.
Cutting board and sharp knife: Essential for chopping chicken and vegetables.
Rice cooker or pot: To cook your rice or quinoa to fluffy perfection.
Whisk: For mixing the drizzle ingredients smoothly.
Serving bowls: Choose wide, shallow bowls for a beautiful presentation.

If you don’t have a rice cooker, stovetop rice works just fine—just keep an eye on it to avoid sticking!

Preparation Method

Prepare the rice: Cook your rice or quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside and keep warm.
Make the coconut lime drizzle: In a small saucepan, combine coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, honey, and salt. Whisk over low heat for 2-3 minutes until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool.
Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until coated. In another bowl, mix sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and honey.
Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil, then cook the chicken until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Reduce heat to medium, pour the sauce over the chicken, and let it simmer until thickened and sticky.
Assemble the bowls: Divide the rice into serving bowls. Add the sweet chili chicken, fresh veggies, and drizzle generously with the coconut lime sauce.
Garnish: Top with green onions, cilantro, sesame seeds, or crushed peanuts for extra flavor and texture.

Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Don’t skip the cornstarch: It’s the secret to getting that perfect sticky glaze on the chicken.
Adjust spice levels: If you prefer less heat, use a milder sweet chili sauce or add more honey to balance the spice.
Prevent soggy veggies: Add fresh vegetables just before serving to keep them crisp and crunchy.
Use fresh lime: Bottled lime juice won’t give you the same bright flavor as freshly squeezed juice.
Keep an eye on the sauce: It thickens quickly, so don’t step away while it’s simmering!

Variations & Adaptations

Low-carb option: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice and use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh, and follow the same preparation steps.
Seasonal twist: Add roasted sweet potatoes or zucchini for a cozy fall vibe.
Extra crunch: Sprinkle crispy fried onions or crushed wonton strips on top.

One time, I swapped the sweet chili sauce for teriyaki sauce, and it was equally delicious. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl is best served warm, but here are some tips for leftovers and presentation:

Serving: Present the bowl with the drizzle added just before serving for maximum visual appeal.
Storage: Store leftover chicken, rice, and veggies in separate containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add the drizzle fresh for the best flavor.
Flavors over time: The sweet chili sauce intensifies as it sits, making leftovers even tastier!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl offers a great balance of nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits:

Protein-packed: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, perfect for muscle repair and energy.
Healthy fats: Coconut milk provides nourishing fats that can support brain health.
Vitamin-rich: Fresh veggies like bell peppers and carrots are loaded with vitamins and antioxidants.
Gluten-free friendly: Just swap soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos!

Keep in mind that the sweet chili sauce may contain added sugars, so adjust portions if needed for dietary goals.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable, this Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle has it all. It’s the kind of dish you’ll keep coming back to—whether you’re craving something comforting or want to impress guests with minimal effort. Plus, it’s a great way to add variety to your weekly menu without overcomplicating things.

I’d love to hear if you tried this recipe! Leave a comment below, share it with your friends, or let me know how you made it your own. Your kitchen adventures inspire me, and who knows—maybe your twist on this bowl will become my new favorite!

Now, grab your apron and let’s get cooking. You’re going to love this one!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work beautifully in this recipe.

Is there a way to make the coconut lime drizzle dairy-free?

The good news is the drizzle is already dairy-free, thanks to the coconut milk!

Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and drizzle ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge and assemble the bowl when ready to serve.

What vegetables work best in this recipe?

Bell peppers, cucumbers, shredded carrots, and edamame are great, but you can use whatever you love or have on hand!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to keep it gluten-free.

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