Name: Chicken Satay Rice Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts); 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp peanut butter; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp grated ginger; 1 tsp ground turmeric; 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat); 1 tbsp lime juice; 1/4 cup peanut butter; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1/4 cup coconut milk (or water); 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat); 1 clove garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lime; Salt, to taste; 2 cups cooked rice (jasmine, brown, or your choice); 1 cucumber, sliced thinly; 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish); Lime wedges (for serving)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Looking for a dish that’s packed with bold flavors, vibrant colors, and just the right amount of comfort? Let me introduce you to Chicken Satay Rice Bowls. Imagine tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection, topped with a creamy, savory peanut sauce, and served over a bed of fluffy rice. The whole dish comes together beautifully with a little crunch from fresh veggies and a sprinkle of cilantro. Trust me, this one’s going to be your new favorite way to enjoy chicken!

Why You’ll Love Chicken Satay Rice Bowls

Irresistible Flavors:

The chicken is marinated in a mix of savory spices, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sweetness, making every bite bursting with flavor. Add to that the rich, creamy peanut sauce, and you’ve got a match made in heaven.

Quick and Easy:

While it may sound like a dish full of complex flavors, this recipe is super easy to make. It comes together in under an hour, and you’ll feel like a professional chef as soon as you take the first bite.

A Balanced Meal:

These rice bowls offer the perfect balance of protein, carbs, and veggies. With juicy chicken, satisfying rice, and fresh veggies, it’s the ideal wholesome meal to keep you full and energized.

Customizable:

You can adjust the toppings to your liking. Add more veggies, a spicy kick with chili flakes, or a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor. The options are endless!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delicious Chicken Satay Rice Bowls:

For the Chicken Marinade:

Chicken Breasts or Thighs: The star of the show. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean option or thighs for extra juiciness.
Soy Sauce: Adds a rich, savory umami flavor to the chicken.
Coconut Milk: Adds a creamy, tropical richness to the marinade.

Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the marinade an aromatic punch.
Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances out the savory flavors.
Lime Juice: Adds a tangy brightness to the chicken.

Ground Ginger: For a subtle warmth and depth of flavor.

For the Peanut Sauce:

Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is the base of the sauce, giving it a rich, nutty flavor.
Coconut Milk: For that creamy, smooth texture.

Soy Sauce: Enhances the savory notes of the sauce.
Rice Vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the richness of the peanut butter.
Honey: A little sweetness to complement the salty and tangy flavors.

Garlic: A little extra garlic never hurts to deepen the sauce’s flavor.
Chili Flakes (Optional): For a bit of spice, if you like things fiery.

For the Rice Bowls:

Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice is the perfect base for your chicken and peanut sauce.

Cucumber: Fresh, crunchy slices add a cool contrast to the warm chicken and rice.
Carrots: Shredded or julienned carrots bring sweetness and color to the bowl.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbal flavor.

Peanuts: Crushed peanuts for some added crunch and extra peanut flavor.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime just before serving adds a zesty finish.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to make these flavorful Chicken Satay Rice Bowls:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, coconut milk, garlic, brown sugar, lime juice, and ground ginger. Whisk everything together until well combined. Add the chicken breasts or thighs, making sure they’re fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

While the chicken marinates, cook the jasmine rice according to the package instructions. Fluff the rice with a fork once it’s done, and set it aside to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Sauce

In a saucepan, combine the peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and garlic. Stir over low heat until the sauce is smooth and heated through. If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess marinade. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked rice between bowls. Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the rice, and drizzle with the creamy peanut sauce. Add cucumber slices, shredded carrots, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Garnish with crushed peanuts for a nice crunch, and finish with lime wedges on the side.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Chicken Satay Rice Bowls immediately, and enjoy all the incredible flavors in every bite. Don’t forget that extra squeeze of lime for a pop of freshness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 490
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 700mg
Total Carbohydrates: 39g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 12g
Protein: 34g
Vitamin A: 90%
Vitamin C: 10%
Calcium: 6%
Iron: 15%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

How to Serve Chicken Satay Rice Bowls

As a Complete Meal:

These bowls are perfectly balanced on their own. The juicy chicken, creamy peanut sauce, and vibrant veggies make for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

With a Side Salad:

Pair with a simple Asian-style salad of mixed greens, sesame seeds, and a light vinaigrette for an added freshness that complements the richness of the bowls.

Add Extra Heat:

If you love spice, consider adding some sliced red chilies to the top of your rice bowls for an extra kick. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to your peanut sauce for more heat.

For a Low-Carb Option:

Serve the chicken and peanut sauce over cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice for a lower-carb alternative.

Additional Tips

Marinate the Chicken Longer:

For maximum flavor, try marinating the chicken for a few hours or even overnight. The longer it marinates, the more the flavors will penetrate the chicken.

Make It Ahead:

If you’re short on time, marinate the chicken the night before and cook it in the morning. The peanut sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Adjust the Peanut Sauce Consistency:

If you like a thinner sauce, you can add a little water or additional coconut milk to reach your desired consistency. Adjust to your liking!

Add More Veggies:

Feel free to add more veggies, such as bell peppers, snap peas, or avocado, to the bowls. They’ll add extra texture and flavor to the dish.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A1: Yes, chicken thighs work great for this recipe! They’re juicier and more flavorful, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as they may take a few minutes longer to cook through.

Q2: Can I make this dish in advance?
A2: Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and cook the rice and peanut sauce in advance. Assemble everything just before serving for the best experience.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

Q4: Can I make this dish spicy?
A4: Absolutely! You can add chili flakes to the peanut sauce, or top the bowls with fresh sliced chili peppers for an extra kick.

Q5: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A5: Yes! Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option. Just marinate and cook the tofu or tempeh the same way as the chicken.

Q6: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A6: The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature or slice the chicken to ensure it’s no longer pink in the center.

Q7: Can I use a different kind of rice?
A7: Yes! While jasmine rice is recommended for its fragrance, you can use basmati rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a different texture and flavor.

Q8: Is this dish gluten-free?
A8: Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce. Just double-check the label to be sure.

Q9: Can I freeze the chicken or peanut sauce?
A9: Yes, you can freeze both the cooked chicken and the peanut sauce. Store them in airtight containers, and reheat in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy.

Q10: Can I add other toppings?
A10: Yes, feel free to add any other toppings you like! Sliced avocado, green onions, or even a boiled egg would make great additions.

Conclusion

Chicken Satay Rice Bowls are a perfect blend of flavor, texture, and freshness. The grilled chicken, creamy peanut sauce, and crunchy veggies come together in a bowl of deliciousness that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for guests, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy!

Chicken Satay Rice Bowls