Save Discover the vibrant flavors of this Peanut Chicken Protein Bowl, a Thai-inspired dish featuring succulent sautéed chicken served over fragrant coconut rice. This nutrient-dense meal is perfect for those seeking a satisfying, protein-packed lunch or a reliable option for meal prepping.
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The dish harmoniously blends the richness of a creamy peanut sauce with the crisp textures of julienned carrots and sliced red cabbage. With every bite, you get a balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes that make this bowl as delicious as it is colorful.
Ingredients
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- For the Coconut Rice: 1 cup jasmine rice, 1 cup canned coconut milk (unsweetened, well-shaken), 1 cup water, ½ tsp salt
- For the Chicken: 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp soy sauce; ½ tsp ground black pepper; 1 clove garlic, minced
- For the Peanut Sauce: ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 clove garlic, minced, 1–2 tbsp warm water, ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- For the Toppings: 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced; 1 cup carrots, julienned or shredded; ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 tbsp roasted peanuts, chopped (optional); lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the coconut rice
- Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, stir once, then cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let steam, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- 2. Cook the chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, soy sauce, black pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 6–8 minutes until chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove from heat.
- 3. Make the peanut sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, lime juice, sesame oil, garlic, and chili flakes. Add warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- 4. Assemble the bowls
- Divide coconut rice among four bowls. Top each with sautéed chicken, red cabbage, carrots, and cilantro. Drizzle generously with peanut sauce. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts and serve with lime wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Ensure the jasmine rice is thoroughly rinsed until the water runs clear to achieve the fluffiest texture. Always shake the canned coconut milk well before measuring to ensure an even distribution of the coconut cream for the richest rice flavor.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
To make this bowl vegetarian, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. You can also customize your bowl by adding other vegetables such as sliced cucumber, edamame, or bell peppers for extra crunch and nutrition.
Serviervorschläge
Serve the bowl warm, garnished with chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro for added texture. For a complete dining experience, pair this meal with a crisp Riesling or a glass of traditional Thai iced tea.
Pin it This Peanut Chicken Protein Bowl is a versatile and easy-to-prepare meal that brings fresh, bold flavors to your dining table. Enjoy a high-protein dish that doesn't compromise on taste or texture, whether for lunch or dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this bowl vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the diced chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Pan-fry the tofu until golden before assembling, or use tempeh sautéed with the same seasonings for a protein-rich alternative.
- → How long does the peanut sauce keep?
The peanut sauce stays fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It may thicken when cold—simply whisk in a tablespoon of warm water to restore the creamy consistency.
- → What other vegetables work well in this bowl?
Sliced cucumber, edamame, bell peppers, or snap peas make excellent additions. You can also add shredded purple cabbage, sliced scallions, or mung bean sprouts for extra texture and nutrition.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tamari instead of regular soy sauce to make this bowl gluten-free. All other ingredients including jasmine rice, coconut milk, and natural peanut butter are naturally gluten-free.
- → Can I freeze the components for meal prep?
The coconut rice and cooked chicken freeze well separately for up to 3 months. Store the peanut sauce in the freezer for up to 2 months. Add fresh vegetables and cilantro when reheating for best texture.
