By Bring Char Siu Chicken with Coconut Rice Bowls to your table with an easy method and crowd-pleasing taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and casual gatherings alike.
Char Siu Chicken with Coconut Rice Bowls captures the essence of meals|chicken while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Char Siu Chicken with Coconut Rice Bowls becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
For the Char Siu Chicken:
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Coconut Rice:
2 cups jasmine rice
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional)
For the Bowls:
1/4 cup chopped peanuts
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Lime wedges, for serving
PREPARATION STEPS
Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, five-spice powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken thighs and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator for more flavor.
Cook the Coconut Rice:
Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and ground turmeric (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Cook the Chicken:
Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Brush with any remaining marinade during cooking for extra flavor.
Assemble the Bowls:
In serving bowls, add a generous scoop of coconut rice. Slice the cooked Char Siu chicken and place it on top of the rice.
Garnish and Serve:
Top with chopped peanuts and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the bowls.
ORIGIN
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 35 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~350 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRINGS
Green salad; Roasted vegetables; Rice or bread
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
