Name: Thai Chicken Buddha Bowls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: thai
Ingredients: For the Chicken: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp lime juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp grated ginger; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tsp sriracha; For the Bowl: 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa; 1/2 cup julienned carrots; 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 cup shredded purple cabbage; 1/2 cup edamame; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 2 green onions, sliced; 1/4 cup crushed peanuts; 1 tbsp sesame seeds; For the Dressing: 3 tbsp peanut butter; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1/4 cup coconut milk; 1 tbsp maple syrup; 1 tsp Thai chili paste; 2-3 tbsp water (to thin as needed)

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Short Description

Thai Chicken Buddha Bowls are a vibrant, healthy, and flavor-packed meal that combines marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, rice, and a rich Thai-inspired dressing. These bowls are perfect for meal prep, customizable, and offer a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Flavor – A combination of Thai spices, fresh herbs, and a creamy peanut dressing ensures every bite is delicious.
Nutritious & Balanced – Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and healthy fats, making it a wholesome meal.
Customizable – Easily adapt the recipe to dietary needs by swapping ingredients.
Great for Meal Prep – Make ahead and store for quick, healthy meals throughout the week.
Beautiful & Colorful – A visually appealing dish that makes eating healthy more enjoyable.

Ingredients

Chicken breast
Soy sauce
Lime juice
Garlic
Ginger
Honey
Sesame oil
Sriracha
Brown rice or quinoa
Carrots
Cucumber
Red bell pepper
Purple cabbage
Edamame
Cilantro
Green onions
Crushed peanuts
Sesame seeds
Peanut butter
Rice vinegar
Coconut milk
Maple syrup
Thai chili paste

Directions

Marinate the Chicken – In a bowl, combine soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, honey, sesame oil, and sriracha. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the Chicken – Heat a pan over medium heat, cook the marinated chicken for 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked. Slice into strips.
Prepare the Rice – Cook brown rice or quinoa according to package instructions.
Make the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, rice vinegar, coconut milk, maple syrup, Thai chili paste, and a bit of water until smooth.
Chop the Vegetables – Julienne the carrots, thinly slice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and cabbage.
Assemble the Bowls – Divide rice into bowls, top with cooked chicken, vegetables, and edamame.
Garnish & Serve – Drizzle with the peanut dressing, then top with cilantro, green onions, crushed peanuts, and sesame seeds.

Variations

Protein Swap – Replace chicken with tofu, shrimp, or tempeh for a vegetarian or pescatarian option.
Grain Base – Use cauliflower rice or noodles instead of rice for a low-carb version.
Nut-Free – Swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and omit crushed peanuts.
Spice Level – Adjust the amount of sriracha and Thai chili paste to suit your heat preference.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration – Store individual portions in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezing – Freeze cooked chicken and rice separately for up to 2 months.
Reheating – Warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Dressing – Store separately and drizzle just before serving to keep veggies crisp.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh and use a soy-based or nut-free dressing.

2. Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Simply shred the chicken and mix it with a bit of the marinade for extra flavor.

3. What’s the best way to meal prep this dish?

Store the ingredients separately and assemble just before eating to keep everything fresh.

4. Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Yes, almond or cashew butter works well as a substitute for peanut butter.

5. How do I make it less spicy?

Reduce or omit the sriracha and Thai chili paste in the marinade and dressing.

6. What can I substitute for edamame?

Chickpeas or green peas are great alternatives.

7. Can I serve this dish cold?

Yes, it tastes delicious chilled, making it perfect for summer meals.

8. How do I add more crunch?

Try adding toasted almonds, cashews, or crispy wonton strips.

9. Can I use a store-bought Thai dressing?

Yes, but homemade dressing provides the freshest flavor.

10. What other veggies can I use?

Zucchini, snap peas, or avocado would all work well in this bowl.

Conclusion

Thai Chicken Buddha Bowls are a delicious, nutritious, and versatile meal option that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a meal-prep-friendly dish, a healthy lunch, or a flavorful dinner, this bowl has it all. Give it a try and enjoy the bold, fresh flavors!

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