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Sweet Chili Chicken Rice Bowls with Chicken Thighs

Sweet Chili Chicken Rice Bowls with Chicken Thighs
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Sweet Chili Chicken Rice Bowls with Chicken Thighs combine juicy, marinated chicken thighs with a sweet and spicy chili sauce served over fragrant, fluffy rice. This easy, flavorful meal is perfect for quick weeknights, meal prepping, or sharing with friends. Fresh vegetables and vibrant garnishes add texture and brightness, making this a satisfying all-in-one bowl.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Sauce & Marinade

  • 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce

Grains

  • 1.5 cups jasmine or basmati rice

Vegetables & Toppings

  • 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
  • 1 cup snap peas or carrots, sliced
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade and Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and soy sauce. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors penetrate deeply.
  2. Cook the Rice: While the chicken marinates, rinse your rice under cold water. Cook according to package instructions, either on stovetop or in a rice cooker, until fluffy and ready to accompany the chicken.
  3. Cook the Chicken Thighs: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Place the marinated chicken thighs in the pan and cook until browned and caramelized on one side, then flip and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  4. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, quickly sauté your chosen vegetables just until crisp-tender to retain vibrant color and freshness, providing a nice contrast to the tender chicken.
  5. Assemble the Rice Bowls: Divide the cooked rice into bowls, top with cooked chicken thighs, then add sautéed vegetables. Drizzle extra sweet chili sauce over everything and garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.

Notes

  • Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour or overnight.
  • Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning and prevent steaming the chicken.
  • Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and ginger for better aroma and taste compared to powders.
  • Balance the Sauce: If the sauce tastes too sweet, add a splash of lime juice or rice vinegar to brighten it.
  • Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest briefly after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet chili chicken, chicken thighs, rice bowls, sweet and spicy, Asian chicken recipe, easy weeknight dinner, meal prep chicken, quick chicken bowls

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/sweet-chili-chicken-rice-bowls-with-chicken-thighs/