Welcome to a fusion of flavors that brings the taste of Thailand to your table with this Thai Peanut Chicken Buddha Bowl. This recipe is perfect for those who crave a mix of spicy, savory, and nutty flavors, topped off with fresh vegetables and succulent chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 teaspoons chili paste
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing bowl
How to Make Thai Peanut Chicken Buddha Bowl – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Jasmine Rice
Start by cooking the jasmine rice as per the package instructions. Typically, this involves rinsing the rice, combining it with water in a saucepan, and bringing it to a boil before letting it simmer with the lid on for about 15 minutes. Once cooked, let it rest off the heat for another 5 minutes to ensure fluffiness. Properly cooked rice serves as a flavorful base for the Buddha bowl, absorbing the aromatic notes of the peanut sauce you’ll add later.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Slice the chicken breasts into strips and season with a pinch of salt. Add the chicken to the skillet, cooking for about 6–7 minutes per side or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly golden. The sesame oil not only aids in cooking but adds to the fragrant Asian flavor profile that complements the peanut sauce beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Peanut Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and chili paste. Adjust the spice level according to your taste by varying the amount of chili paste. This creamy sauce is the heart of the Buddha bowl; its luscious texture and sweet-savory balance elevate each ingredient in the dish.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
Now it’s time to assemble! Divide the cooked rice among serving bowls, followed by the sautéed chicken strips. Arrange the sliced bell pepper, cucumber, and shredded carrots artfully beside the chicken. This arrangement not only looks appealing but ensures every bite captures a mix of textures and flavors.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Drizzle the prepared peanut sauce generously over the entire bowl. Top with roasted peanuts and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an added layer of fragrance and crunch. Serve warm for the best taste experience, making sure each component is savored for its unique role in the dish.
How to Serve Thai Peanut Chicken Buddha Bowl
For serving, consider presenting these bowls with a side of lime wedges, allowing guests to add a zesty touch as desired. The contrasting freshness of lime juice cuts through the richness of the sauce, enhancing each mouthful. Enjoy as a standalone meal or pair with a light Thai-inspired appetizer, such as spring rolls or a tangy salad.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Consider marinating the chicken overnight for a deeper flavor infusion. For a nut-free version, substitute almond butter or tahini in place of peanut butter. Chickpeas can be added for extra protein and texture, a suitable option for vegetarians or those wanting a heartier bowl. For batch cooking, prepare all components separately and store them in airtight containers to preserve freshness.
Protein-Packed Delight: Revamping the Thai Peanut Chicken Buddha Bowl
If you’re focusing on upping your protein intake, this version of our Thai Peanut Chicken Buddha Bowl is perfect for you. Simply incorporate some edamame beans or sliced boiled eggs as additional toppings. This enhances the overall nutritional value, making it ideal for fitness enthusiasts and those perpetually on-the-go.
Furthermore, opting for quinoa instead of jasmine rice can give the bowl a fantastic protein boost while maintaining the grain’s nutty flavor. Combined with the creamy peanut sauce, this adaptation will keep you fueled throughout the day while embracing the beloved Thai flavors.
Low-Carb Twist: Crafting a Thai Peanut Chicken Buddha Bowl Without the Rice
Do you want to enjoy all the goodness of a Thai Peanut Chicken Buddha Bowl but with fewer carbohydrates? Swap out the jasmine rice for cauliflower rice—it’s a low-carb alternative that still provides volume and texture. This change keeps the essence of the dish without sacrificing your dietary goals.
Using zucchini or cucumber noodles as substitutes can also keep the carb count low while adding a refreshing crunch. Paired with the bold and spicy peanut sauce, this throwback to a traditional Thai bowl promises not to compromise on taste.
Storage Instructions
To store leftovers, keep each component—chicken, rice, vegetables, and peanut sauce—in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This approach preserves the texture and flavor of each element. Reheat the chicken and rice before serving, and add the sautéed vegetables and sauce freshly for the best taste. Consume within three days for optimal freshness and safety.
FAQs
- Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight jar in the refrigerator. Just make sure to give it a good stir before use. - How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, simply add more chili paste or a dash of sriracha to the peanut sauce according to your preference. - Are there vegan alternatives to this recipe?
Absolutely, replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use soy or almond butter instead of peanut butter. - What if I don’t have all the vegetables listed?
Feel free to mix and match with whatever fresh vegetables you have. Bell peppers, carrots, and cucumbers are just suggestions, so tailor them to your liking.
Endnote on a Flavorful Feast!
Bringing the taste of Thailand to your kitchen has never been easier—or more fun. The Thai Peanut Chicken Buddha Bowl is a versatile vessel of flavors tailored to your dietary preferences and creativity in the kitchen. Share this recipe with friends, and invite them to dive into an authentic culinary experience right from home. Have thoughts or spins on this dish? Leave a comment or photo on our post, and let’s celebrate our shared passion for flavorful food!
Thai Peanut Chicken Buddha Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- boneless skinless chicken breasts
- jasmine rice
- red bell pepper
- cucumber
- shredded carrots
- soy sauce
- peanut butter
- lime juice
- chili paste
- sesame oil
- roasted peanuts
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
Steps
- Start by cooking the jasmine rice as per the package instructions. Typically, this involves rinsing the rice, combining it with water in a saucepan, and bringing it to a boil before letting it simmer with the lid on for about 15 minutes. Once cooked, let it rest off the heat for another 5 minutes to ensure fluffiness. Properly cooked rice serves as a flavorful base for the Buddha bowl, absorbing the aromatic notes of the peanut sauce you'll add later.
- Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Slice the chicken breasts into strips and season with a pinch of salt. Add the chicken to the skillet, cooking for about 6–7 minutes per side or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly golden. The sesame oil not only aids in cooking but adds to the fragrant Asian flavor profile that complements the peanut sauce beautifully.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and chili paste. Adjust the spice level according to your taste by varying the amount of chili paste. This creamy sauce is the heart of the Buddha bowl; its luscious texture and sweet-savory balance elevate each ingredient in the dish.
- Now it’s time to assemble! Divide the cooked rice among serving bowls, followed by the sautéed chicken strips. Arrange the sliced bell pepper, cucumber, and shredded carrots artfully beside the chicken. This arrangement not only looks appealing but ensures every bite captures a mix of textures and flavors.
- Drizzle the prepared peanut sauce generously over the entire bowl. Top with roasted peanuts and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an added layer of fragrance and crunch. Serve warm for the best taste experience, making sure each component is savored for its unique role in the dish.