Craving a vibrant, flavorful, and truly satisfying meal that’s also incredibly good for you? This Thai Peanut Chicken Bowl delivers all that and more, making it a perfect addition to your collection of Healthy Bowl Recipes. It’s packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, savory peanut sauce that will have you coming back for seconds.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken Breast: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Peanut Butter: Opt for natural, unsweetened peanut butter. Almond butter works as a substitute.
- Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos are great gluten-free alternatives.
- Rice Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be used in a pinch.
- Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be substituted.
- Brown Rice: Quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even noodles are excellent bases.
- Assorted Vegetables: Feel free to use whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand, like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Peanut Sauce:
- ½ cup creamy natural peanut butter
- ¼ cup warm water (add more to reach desired consistency)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon sriracha (optional, for a little heat)
For the Bowls:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 large carrot, shredded or julienned
- ½ cup chopped cucumber
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons chopped roasted peanuts (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 kcal
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, mixing bowls, whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Chicken
Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Whisk Together the Peanut Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, warm water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sriracha (if using). Whisk until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more warm water, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
3. Assemble Your Bowls
Divide the cooked brown rice among four serving bowls. Arrange the cooked chicken, shredded red cabbage, shredded carrot, and chopped cucumber neatly over the rice. This makes for a beautiful presentation.
4. Drizzle and Garnish
Generously drizzle the creamy peanut sauce over each bowl. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and chopped roasted peanuts, if you’re using them. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
Variation Ideas
- Add cooked edamame or chickpeas for extra plant-based protein.
- Incorporate roasted sweet potatoes or bell peppers for more flavor and color.
- Spice it up with extra sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce.
- Swap out brown rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different texture.
- Add mango salsa for a sweet and tangy twist.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover Thai Peanut Chicken Bowls in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s best to keep the sauce separate if possible to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy cold for a quick lunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the peanut sauce up to 3-4 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You might need to add a splash of warm water to thin it out before serving.
What if I don’t like cilantro?
You can easily omit cilantro or substitute it with chopped green onions for a similar fresh flavor.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
While you can freeze cooked chicken, the fresh vegetables and rice are best enjoyed fresh. It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled bowls.
How can I make this bowl spicier?
Increase the amount of sriracha in the peanut sauce, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Can I use pre-cooked rice?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked or leftover rice will significantly reduce your preparation time.
What other vegetables can I add?
Steamed broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, snow peas, or even spinach can be excellent additions to your bowl.
