Description
Looking for a flavorful and quick dinner idea that feels like takeout but comes together in under 40 minutes? This *Easy Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl* is the answer. It features tender, juicy chicken glazed in a sweet and spicy chili sauce, served over fluffy rice, and finished with creamy drizzles and fresh toppings. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re craving something bold yet comforting. This is one of those healthy snack or dinner ideas that never gets old—a balanced, satisfying, and customizable bowl you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 lime, cut into wedges
3 cups cooked white rice
1/4 cup creamy sauce (spicy mayo, lime crema, or peanut sauce)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil
Instructions
1. In a bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken thighs and mix until coated. Let marinate for 20–120 minutes.
2. Heat oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through and caramelized.
3. Transfer chicken to a board and let rest for a few minutes, then slice into thin strips.
4. Warm any extra sauce and drizzle it over the sliced chicken for extra flavor.
5. In serving bowls, add cooked white rice, top with chicken slices, and drizzle with your creamy sauce of choice.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
7. Serve hot and enjoy immediately or store for later.
8. Optional: Add steamed veggies or pickled toppings for extra texture.
Notes
Letting the chicken rest after cooking keeps it juicy—don’t skip this step.
For extra heat, stir some sriracha or red pepper flakes into the marinade.
Cook rice ahead of time and reheat for the fastest weeknight assembly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: easy recipe, sweet chili chicken, dinner ideas, chicken bowl, quick weeknight dinner