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A vibrant Thai Peanut Chicken Buddha Bowl filled with grilled chicken, creamy peanut sauce, shredded carrots, red cabbage, fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, and a lime wedge.
Reda

Thai Peanut Chicken Buddha Bowl

A vibrant and satisfying Buddha bowl featuring tender, peanut-marinated chicken, fluffy brown rice, and a colorful array of crisp vegetables, all drizzled with a creamy, tangy peanut dressing. This healthy and flavorful meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Thai
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

For the Creamy Peanut Dressing & Marinade
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter unsweetened preferred
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Sriracha or to taste, for a kick
  • 1 tsp sesame oil toasted
  • 2-4 tbsp water for thinning
For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Bowl Components
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa, prepared according to package directions
  • 1 cup red cabbage shredded
  • 1 cup carrots shredded or julienned
  • 1 cup cucumber diced or thinly sliced
  • 1 cup edamame shelled, cooked (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
For Serving (Optional Garnishes)
  • 2 tbsp roasted peanuts chopped
  • 4 lime wedges
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Skillet
  • Pot (for rice)
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

Prepare the Creamy Peanut Dressing
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, grated ginger, minced garlic, Sriracha, and sesame oil until smooth. If the dressing is too thick, gradually add 2-4 tablespoons of water until it reaches a pourable, yet creamy, consistency.
  2. Reserve half of the peanut dressing (about 1/2 cup) for serving. This will be your finished dressing.
Marinate & Cook the Chicken
  1. Add the cubed chicken breast to the remaining peanut mixture in the bowl. Toss to coat thoroughly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the other bowl components, or up to 30 minutes for more flavor.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned on all sides. (Alternatively, you can air fry the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until cooked).
Prepare Bowl Components
  1. While the chicken is cooking, ensure your brown rice is cooked according to package instructions. If using frozen edamame, cook it briefly in boiling water or microwave until tender, then drain.
  2. Prepare all your fresh vegetables: shred the red cabbage and carrots, dice or thinly slice the cucumber, and thinly slice the bell pepper. Chop the fresh cilantro.
Assemble the Buddha Bowls
  1. Divide the cooked brown rice evenly among four serving bowls.
  2. Arrange the cooked peanut chicken, shredded red cabbage, carrots, cucumber, edamame, and bell pepper artfully over the rice in each bowl.
  3. Generously drizzle each bowl with the reserved creamy peanut dressing.
  4. Garnish with chopped roasted peanuts, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and a fresh lime wedge for squeezing. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, store the dressing separately and add just before serving. This recipe is highly customizable; feel free to swap chicken for tofu or shrimp, and use any vegetables you have on hand, such as broccoli florets, snap peas, or avocado.